Overview
The St. Joe River Trail follows a portion of the upper St. Joe Wild and Scenic River through one of the finest intact river corridor forests in the Idaho Panhandle. The 6-mile out-and-back is gentle enough for most fitness levels, but the scenery, old-growth Engelmann spruce and grand fir, a clear river over rounded cobblestones, regular moose and bear activity, is what draws hikers back. This is also one of the best fishing-access trails in Idaho Panhandle National Forests.
The St. Joe River is often called the world's highest navigable river, a claim referring to the elevation at which motorboats can still travel. Whatever its superlative status, it is a genuinely wild and beautiful river, and the trail here offers miles of close access at a very modest physical cost.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.0: Lower section. The trail begins in mixed conifer forest near the river, with the water audible throughout. Grand fir and Engelmann spruce dominate, with western red cedar in the wetter ground near the river's edge. The river is clear and green-tinged over its rocky streambed. Look for moose tracks in the muddy margins and listen for the mechanical drumming of pileated woodpeckers in the snag-rich forest.
Miles 2.0 to 3.0: Middle section. The trail moves closer to the river through a stretch with several accessible gravel bars perfect for fishing. The current is moderate here and the pools below the gravel bars hold westslope cutthroat in good numbers. The old-growth trees are largest in this middle section, with Engelmann spruce exceeding 3 feet in diameter.
Mile 3.0: Turnaround. The trail continues upstream beyond this point, but the out-and-back described here turns around at a large river bend with views upstream and a good fishing pool. The terrain ahead becomes rougher and the maintained trail eventually fades.
When to Hike
May and June offer high water and excellent spruce pollen displays. The river is running high and fast, which makes fishing challenging but the scenery dramatic. Moose are most commonly spotted in May and early June when they move to the river corridor to feed on aquatic vegetation.
July through September is the prime fishing window as water levels drop and pools become more fishable. The forest is dense and shaded, keeping the trail cooler than exposed routes in the region.
October brings fall color to the mixed hardwoods along the river margins and continues excellent fishing conditions.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1 to 1.5 liters of water for this gentle trail. River water is a source nearby but should be treated before drinking. Fishing gear, rod, reel, and a few dry flies, is worth bringing even for casual anglers. Waterproof boots or trail runners keep feet dry on muddy early-season sections.
Trailhead Access
The trailhead is on Forest Road 50 (St. Joe River Road), which follows the river upstream from Avery. The road is paved to the trailhead area and accessible with a standard passenger vehicle. From St. Maries, drive east on FR-50 about 45 miles to the upper river trailheads. Cell service is absent in the upper canyon.
Nearby
The Mallard-Larkins Pioneer Area Trail is in the southern St. Joe unit and accesses the roadless high country above the river. Bead Lake Trail offers a lake loop alternative in the southern forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles along the Wild and Scenic River corridor, and review checking conditions for road status and any seasonal closures before your trip.