The best walks and hikes around Palisades Reservoir

There are 6 distinct hiking routes around Palisades Reservoir listed in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. This includes 2 easy, 3 moderate, and 1 difficult trail, offering options for various skill levels.

For an easy and enjoyable experience, consider the Alpine North Loop, a 4 km route with gentle elevation, or the Jordan Canyon trail, which is just over 2 km and features minimal ascent. Both are great for a relaxed outing.

While not directly listed in the guide's routes, the Palisades Reservoir area is known for natural features like Fall Creek Falls, a scenic waterfall in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. You can also discover natural hot springs, such as Bear Creek Hot Springs, along the west side of the reservoir, often requiring a longer hike to reach.

The iconic Palisades Creek Trail is your best bet for reaching the pristine Lower and Upper Palisades Lakes. This moderate 9.7 km trail follows Palisades Creek through forested canyons, leading directly to these beautiful alpine bodies of water.

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest, which surrounds Palisades Reservoir, is rich in wildlife. Hikers often spot moose, elk, mule deer, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons, raptors, and even black bears or wolves, especially in more secluded areas.

Yes, for a more demanding adventure, consider the Big Elk Creek Trail. This moderate route spans nearly 15 km with significant elevation gain, winding through a beautiful canyon with impressive mountain views. For an even more challenging experience, the Taylor Mountain Loop Trail (not in this guide) is known for its length and steep ascents.

Palisades Reservoir offers year-round recreation. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer is ideal for accessing higher elevations and enjoying the lakes. Winter offers unique opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though some trails may be less accessible.

Yes, the Along Palisades Creek – Lower Palisades Lake loop from Palisades Creek is a moderate 13.3 km circular route that allows you to experience the beauty of Palisades Creek and Lower Palisades Lake before returning to your starting point.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Palisades Reservoir, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking mountain views, the serene beauty of the alpine lakes, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the diverse ecosystems of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

Many trails within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each trail or area before heading out with your canine companion. Always keep dogs on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Hikers will encounter a variety of stunning natural features, including thickly forested canyons with aspen, fir, and willow trees, dramatic steep cliffs, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, including the impressive Snake River range. The area is also characterized by its pristine alpine lakes and the winding Palisades Creek.