The Twin Lakes Trail Idaho, also known as Trail #361, is a 0.6-mile long trail located in the Payette National Forest. It offers hikers of all abilities the opportunity to explore two stunning destinations: the serene Twin Lakes and the challenging Granite Mountain Lookout.
Exploring the Twin Lakes Trail
The Twin Lakes Trail starts at the Twin Lakes Trailhead, which is located near a Cattle Association. Hikers should be prepared to encounter cattle and their “presents” along the way. The trail begins with a small bridge that crosses a creek and leads to a wildflower meadow, where dogs should be kept on a leash due to the presence of cattle.
At the halfway point, hikers will come to a Y-shaped intersection, where they can choose to head right to the Twin Lakes or left to the Granite Mountain Lookout. The Twin Lakes are an active fishing spot, but the water level can fluctuate, affecting shore fishing. The best fishing is on the far side of the lake, which requires bushwhacking to access. The lake is also home to a large breeding ground for frogs.
Conquering the Granite Mountain Lookout
The Granite Mountain Lookout trail is more challenging, with a medium incline through forest terrain for the first half, followed by a drastic steepening and rocky terrain for the second half. The trail becomes marked only by cairns and switchbacks, leading to the lookout built in 1913. Hikers should be prepared for a grueling uphill battle and should announce themselves if a ranger is present in the lookout tower.
Trail Options
The Twin Lakes Trail offers several options for hikers:
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Lakes via Granite Mountain Trail 165 | 2.1 miles (out-and-back) | Moderate |
| Twin Lakes Trail via Square Mountain | 9.3 miles (out-and-back) | Challenging |
The Twin Lakes trailhead is a perfect starting point for hikers of all abilities, with the short one-mile hike into Twin Lakes being an easy family outing and the Granite Mountain Lookout trail providing a more challenging trek and rewarding view.
Preparation and Safety
Hikers should start early in the summertime due to the lack of shade and should not drink any water from Goose Creek. They should also be prepared for cattle encounters and fluctuating water levels at the Twin Lakes.
Conclusion
The Twin Lakes Trail Idaho offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from the serene Twin Lakes to the challenging Granite Mountain Lookout. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, this trail has something to offer for everyone. So pack your gear, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of this stunning Idaho destination.
References:
– USDA Forest Service – Payette National Forest
– It Started Outdoors – Twin Lakes & Granite Mountain Lookout
– AllTrails – Twin Lakes via Granite Mountain Trail 165
– AllTrails – Twin Lakes Trail via Square Mountain
– Visit McCall – Hiking Guide: Twin Lakes