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Roman Nose Lakes Trail

Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
8.6 mi
Elevation Gain
2,100 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
8 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
No Lot
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

  • Chain of three remote alpine lakes in the Selkirk high country
  • Old-growth Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir in the approach forest
  • Excellent brook trout and cutthroat fishing in the upper lakes
  • Rocky Selkirk terrain with views toward the Salmo-Priest Wilderness
  • Remote character with very low trail traffic

Overview

The Roman Nose Lakes Trail penetrates the Selkirk high country in the northern section of Idaho Panhandle National Forests, reaching a chain of three remote alpine lakes at elevations above 5,800 feet. The 8.6-mile out-and-back climbs through old-growth Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir before breaking into open rocky terrain below the lakes. The upper lakes are crystal-clear, cold, and surrounded by rocky Selkirk peaks. Trail traffic is minimal and wildlife sightings are common.

No permit is required. Dispersed camping is available near the lakes.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3.0: Forested approach. The trail climbs steadily through mixed conifer forest with increasingly large Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir as elevation increases. The forest is quiet and shaded, with good bird activity including Clark's nutcracker and Steller's jay. Bear sign (digging, scat, tracks in mud) is common on this section.

Miles 3.0 to 4.3: Rocky transition. The forest opens into talus and subalpine meadow above 5,500 feet. Rocky outcrops line the trail and views begin to expand westward toward the Priest Lake basin. The first lake comes into view around mile 4.0, a small tarn below the rocky headwall. The main upper lakes are another 0.3 miles beyond.

Miles 4.3 to 4.3: The lakes. The upper Roman Nose Lakes sit in a glacially carved cirque surrounded by rocky walls. Two main lakes are separated by a narrow rocky isthmus. Fishing in the upper lake is excellent for brook trout. The views from the outlet of the upper lake looking back down the approach valley are the best on the route.

When to Hike

Mid-July through August is the primary window. Snow lingers on the approach trail into early July and can close the trailhead road into late June in high-snowpack years. July wildflowers in the meadow sections are excellent.

September offers solitude and the beginning of fall color in the larch. Fishing pressure is at its lowest of the season.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water. There are stream sources in the lower forest section that can be filtered, but water on the open upper section is limited. Bear spray is strongly recommended for this area of the Selkirks. Bring fishing gear if the lakes are a goal.

Trailhead Access

The trailhead is off Forest Road 2512 north of Nordman, accessed via State Highway 57. The final miles of road require high-clearance; standard passenger vehicles can manage in dry conditions but a truck or SUV is more comfortable. The drive from Sandpoint is about 1.5 hours.

Nearby

The Selkirk Crest Trail is the other major high-country route in the northern forest. Priest Lake Lakeshore Trail provides an easy lakeside alternative. See our bear canister guide for food storage practices in this bear-active terrain. Follow Leave No Trace principles at the fragile high-country lakes.

Trailhead Parking

Roman Nose Trailhead off Forest Road 2512, north of Nordman. Gravel road, high-clearance recommended. Small lot for 8-10 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Idaho Panhandle National Forests

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Roman Nose Lakes good for fishing?
Yes. The upper Roman Nose Lakes hold brook trout and westslope cutthroat trout in good numbers. Because access is on foot only and the trail is moderately difficult, fishing pressure is light compared to road-accessible lakes in the area. An Idaho fishing license is required (as of 2026). Pack light fishing gear for an excellent half-day of mountain lake fishing.
How remote is the Roman Nose Lakes area?
Very remote. Cell service is absent from the trailhead through the entire hike. The trail sees light use by the standards of most popular lakes trails in the Pacific Northwest. You can expect solitude, especially on weekdays. Download offline maps and let someone know your plans before heading in. Bears are present in the area; carry bear spray.
Can I camp at Roman Nose Lakes?
Dispersed camping is allowed on national forest land throughout the Selkirk unit, including near the Roman Nose Lakes. No permit is required. Camp at least 200 feet from the lake shore to protect water quality. Bring a bear canister or hang food properly; black bears and potentially grizzly bears are present in this area.