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ForestMatters, LLC

Salmo Loop Trail

Colville National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
8.4 mi
Elevation Gain
1,400 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Old-growth western red cedar and western hemlock forest
  • Salmo River corridor in the Salmo-Priest Wilderness
  • Grizzly bear and woodland caribou habitat
  • Minimal visitor traffic even at peak season
  • Near-Canada forest character with mixed conifer old-growth

Overview

The Salmo Loop Trail travels through the Salmo-Priest Wilderness, a 39,937-acre roadless area in the northeastern corner of Colville National Forest near the Canadian border. The wilderness is habitat for Washington's last grizzly bear population and the Selkirk Mountain woodland caribou, one of the rarest large mammals in the lower 48 states. The Salmo River drains through old-growth western red cedar and western hemlock in conditions that feel genuinely wild.

This trail is not for everyone. The grizzly bear presence requires specific safety protocols, the access road is rough, and the trailhead is genuinely remote. For those prepared for the environment, however, the Salmo Loop offers a forest experience with few equivalents in the American Northwest.

The Route

Trailhead to Salmo River (Mile 0 to 1.5)

From the Forest Road 2220 trailhead, the loop descends to the Salmo River through old-growth forest. The trail is well-defined and the forest immediately impressive: cedar and hemlock specimens over 200 years old with minimal understory.

Salmo River Corridor (Mile 1.5 to 4.5)

The trail follows the river upstream through the most intact old-growth section. The river is clear and cold, bordered by moss-covered boulders and fern banks. Multiple small side creeks cross the trail.

Ridge Return (Mile 4.5 to 8.4)

The loop climbs from the river corridor onto a forested ridge before returning to the trailhead. This section provides views through the canopy and transitions to drier mixed forest on the upper slopes.

When to Hike

June through October is the primary season. The trail can hold snow through May.

September is excellent for fall mushrooms in the old-growth and for quieter conditions. Late September brings early frost but reliable access.

What to Bring

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. This is the single most important piece of gear for this trail. Many hikers also carry 2 liters of water; the Salmo River provides water throughout the route but treat or filter.

Travel in groups and make noise while hiking. Solitary travel in grizzly habitat is not recommended.

Trailhead Access

Forest Road 2220 east of Metaline Falls provides access. The road is gravel and rough in sections; high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Metaline Falls has limited services.

No permit required for the Salmo-Priest Wilderness (as of 2026). No restrooms at this trailhead.

Nearby

The Noisy Creek Trail accesses the same wilderness from a different trailhead and also travels through old-growth habitat. The Sullivan Lake Lakeshore Trail is nearby for a lower-intensity contrast.

Check current conditions and fire restrictions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles with particular care in this sensitive grizzly habitat.

Trailhead Parking

Salmo-Priest Trailhead on Forest Road 2220, east of Metaline Falls. Gravel lot with space for 10 vehicles. No fee. High-clearance vehicle recommended.

← Back to Colville National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Salmo Loop Trail take?
Plan 4.5 to 6 hours for the 8.4-mile loop at a comfortable pace with time to appreciate the old-growth forest.
Are there really grizzly bears on the Salmo Loop Trail?
The Salmo-Priest Wilderness is part of the Selkirk Mountain grizzly bear recovery area, and grizzly bears are present. Encounters are uncommon but possible. Carry bear spray, travel in groups, make noise while hiking, and review current USFS grizzly bear guidelines before your trip.
Is the Salmo Loop Trail dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed on leash in the Salmo-Priest Wilderness. Given the grizzly bear presence, keeping dogs under strict control is particularly important.