Overview
Palisades Lake sits in the southern reaches of Caribou-Targhee National Forest, far from the Teton-facing trailheads that draw most visitors. The lake is reached by a 12-mile round-trip that gains 2,100 feet through the Palisades Creek canyon, one of the most scenic creek drainages in the southern forest. The canyon walls rise sharply above the trail in the lower section, creating an enclosed and dramatic approach before the terrain opens into the high basin.
This route represents the quieter side of Caribou-Targhee. The forest's southern units attract a different visitor than the Teton corridor: more local Idaho hikers and fewer destination tourists, which translates to genuine solitude even in peak summer weeks. The lake itself is a worthy destination with mountain views and good fishing.
Swan Valley and the Snake River below Palisades Reservoir are also worth noting for visitors making a day of it: the reservoir itself is popular for boating and fishing, and the Swan Valley area has a handful of small outfitters catering to float fishing on the Snake.
Check conditions before your trip, particularly for road and trail status early in the season. The canyon approach can be affected by high water during snowmelt.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3.0: Canyon Approach
The trail begins at the Palisades Lake Trailhead (approximately 5,600 feet elevation) and follows Palisades Creek northeast into the canyon. The lower section is one of the most interesting on the route: limestone and conglomerate cliffs rise 300 to 500 feet above the creek on both sides, creating an enclosed, shaded corridor that stays cool even on hot summer days.
The trail maintains close proximity to the creek throughout the lower canyon, with several crossings on maintained bridges. The water is clear and cold, and the fishing is visible: trout hold in the pools below the small falls and in the slower water behind boulders.
Miles 3.0 to 5.5: Forest Transition
Above the main canyon section, the walls open and the trail enters mixed forest of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and aspen. The climbing becomes more consistent here, gaining elevation in long switchbacks through the upper drainage. Views of the surrounding ridges begin to open, and the character of the terrain shifts from canyon to mountain.
A small creek crossing at approximately mile 4.5 provides the last reliable water source before the lake. Fill water containers here if your capacity is limited.
Miles 5.5 to 6.0: Lake Basin
The trail tops a final ridge and descends briefly to the Palisades Lake shoreline. The lake sits in an open rocky basin at approximately 7,700 feet. The surrounding peaks are not as dramatic as those in the Teton corridor, but the setting is quiet and genuine, with good reflection views on calm mornings.
When to Visit
June through September. The lower canyon clears early due to its relatively low starting elevation, often by late May. The upper basin is accessible by mid-June in most years. October is a good shoulder-season option with fall color in the aspens.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this trail carry:
- 2-3 liters of water; the creek provides sources throughout the lower trail, but the upper basin relies on the lake itself
- A water filter
- Layers for the cooler canyon temperatures in the lower section and the exposed upper basin
- Insect repellent in June and July when the creek corridor can be buggy
- A fishing license if planning to fish
Individual needs vary depending on the season and conditions.
Practical Details
No permit is required as of 2026. A vault toilet is at the trailhead. Cell service is limited near the highway and absent in the canyon. Dogs are permitted.
Leave No Trace principles apply throughout. The canyon corridor is sensitive; stay on the trail and avoid disturbing the riparian vegetation along the creek.
Getting There
From Idaho Falls, drive east on Highway 26 approximately 50 miles through Swan Valley to the signed Palisades Creek trailhead turnoff. The trailhead is on the north side of the highway. Parking is paved and accessible by all vehicles.
From Jackson, Wyoming, drive west over Teton Pass (Highway 26 through Alpine Junction) approximately 40 miles to the trailhead on your right.