Overview
The Chimney Rock Trail climbs to one of the signature viewpoints in Idaho Panhandle National Forests, ascending from forested slopes to a bare granite spire at roughly 6,900 feet. The 9-mile round trip gains 2,800 feet over forested ridges and open talus fields before arriving at the dramatic pinnacle. On a clear day the summit offers views across three states: Idaho, Montana, and Washington. This is a full-day hike for most parties.
No permit is required. Dogs are allowed on leash. The approach road requires high-clearance, and the summit scramble is for hikers comfortable on exposed rocky terrain.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: Forested lower slopes. The trail begins in mixed conifer forest of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir, and Engelmann spruce. The grade is steady but manageable in the opening miles. Small streams cross the trail in early season, and the forest is dense enough to provide shade during the morning climb. Watch for deer and black bears in this section.
Miles 2.0 to 4.0: Transition to open terrain. The trees thin and the grade steepens above 5,500 feet. Huckleberry and beargrass line the trail, and the first views open to the west across the Pend Oreille Valley. The Cabinet Mountains form the horizon to the east. Wildflowers in the subalpine meadow sections are excellent from mid-July through early August.
Miles 4.0 to 4.5: Summit approach. The maintained trail ends near treeline and the final push to the Chimney Rock spire involves scrambling over talus and loose rock. The spire itself requires some easy Class 3 moves to reach the true high point. Take your time here; the footing is uneven and the exposure is significant. Most hikers will be satisfied with the views from the base of the spire, which are nearly as good as from the top.
Summit views. On clear days the panorama takes in Lake Pend Oreille to the west, the Selkirk Range to the north, and the Cabinet Mountains of Montana to the east. The St. Joe River valley is visible to the south on exceptionally clear days.
When to Hike
July through mid-August offers the best conditions. Snow lingers on the summit approach into early July. Wildflowers in the meadow sections peak from late July through early August.
Late August through September is quieter and often offers the clearest skies of the season. Huckleberries ripen by mid-August and are abundant along the trail. Early fall brings the first color to the subalpine vegetation.
Avoid attempting this trail in afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in July and August. The exposed ridgeline and open summit area are dangerous in lightning. Start early and plan to be off the summit by noon when thunderstorms are forecast.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water for this full-day effort. The climb is sustained and the summit is fully exposed with no shade. Sun protection (sunscreen, hat) is important for the upper half of the trail. Bring a layer for the summit even in summer; the exposed ridgeline can be significantly cooler and windier than the trailhead.
Trekking poles are helpful for the sustained uphill and the rocky descent. Sturdy trail shoes or light hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended for the talus sections.
Trailhead Access
The Chimney Rock Trailhead is reached via US-2 east of Sandpoint, then Forest Road 2656 south. The gravel road is passable with a standard passenger vehicle in dry conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, particularly after rain when the road surface degrades. Allow 45 minutes from Sandpoint to the trailhead. Cell service is absent on the approach road and throughout the hike; download offline maps before leaving.
Nearby
The Selkirk Crest Trail is the other major high-country route in this part of the forest, accessed from the north. The Bead Lake Trail offers a much easier alternative if the Chimney Rock climb exceeds your ambition for the day. Review checking conditions before you go for current fire closures and road status, and follow Leave No Trace principles in this remote terrain.