Sami Smith

Evans Landing in Farragut State Park is a great place to hike year around. This would be a moderate to hard trail as it’s downhill all the way to the lake and uphill all the way back. Given the 4 mile roundtrip distance and the elevation gain, plan on this hiking taking about 2.5 hours with additional time if you're taking in the views once you reach Evans Landing.  Note: Idaho state parks cha...

The out-and-back trail to Snow Creek Falls is relatively easy with about 160 feet over elevation gain over roughly a 1.5 miles. Plan on approximately 45 minutes trail time roundtrip. There is a parking area in the pull-out just off the road.  This is both a dog-friendly and kid-friendly trail. 

Cool little pull off area to get a shot of Washington’s face from the side between the mountains. There is a pull off on both sides of the road and a popular spot to stop and photograph this unique perspective of Mt. Rushmore.  For the loop trail to see more of the sites of Mt. Rushmore, check out The Presidential Trail, which is a less than one mile loop.  

Heading out to Revett Lake is a 3.2 mile out-and-back hike near Wallace, Idaho. This is a fairly popular trail with people heading to the lake to fish and to camp. Summer to early fall makes for the best time of year to head out on this trail.  The trail is dog-friendly on leash.  Local Ranger District Contact Info: Idaho Panhandle National Forests - St. Joe Ranger District  (208) 245-2531  

Cooks Lake located near Bonners Ferry, Idaho is a great destination for relaxing or bringing your fishing pole (whether fly fishing or using a spin rod -- don't forget your fishing license). You're able to gain access very close access to the lake (especially on quads or side by sides) or you can park and walk roundtrip 1/3 mile to the lake.  This is a great spot to bring the whole family. 

Leigh Lake Trail #132 is a short, but difficult hike. With the elevation gain greater than 1300 feet, you'll get quite the workout -- keep this in mind if thinking about brining small kids or pets. In fact, there are sections where you may be climbing up on all fours. Along the route, you'll pass beautiful waterfalls before arriving at picturesque Leigh Lake. As a heads up, there can be some s...