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Priest River Trail

Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
400 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
April through October
Est. Time
2-3 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
3 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
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 cedar and fir forest along the Priest River
  • Excellent steelhead and salmon fishery with valid Idaho license
  • Osprey, bald eagle, and heron commonly observed on the river
  • Accessible trail with minimal elevation gain
  • One of the earliest-opening trails in the Kaniksu National Forest
riverwildlifeold growth

Overview

Priest River Trail follows one of Idaho Panhandle's most beautiful river corridors through Kaniksu National Forest, walking beside the Priest River through old-growth cedar and fir forest with excellent wildlife watching. The 5.0-mile easy-moderate out-and-back gains only 400 feet, making it one of the most accessible routes in the Kaniksu forest.

The Priest River is a designated wild fish recovery stream, supporting steelhead and salmon populations. Osprey and bald eagles hunt the river regularly, and the old-growth forest corridor is one of the best preserved in the northern Idaho Panhandle.

The Route

From the Highway 57 trailhead, the trail follows the river upstream through the old-growth forest. The river is visible throughout the lower section, with several access points for fishing. The old-growth forest becomes increasingly impressive as distance from the trailhead increases.

When to Visit

April through October. The lower elevation makes this one of the earliest opening trails in the Kaniksu forest, often accessible from April. Spring fishing season and fall salmon and steelhead runs make those periods particularly rewarding.

Practical Details

No facilities at the trailhead. Water from the river must be treated. Dispersed camping is permitted on Kaniksu National Forest lands. A valid Idaho fishing license is required to fish. Review Leave No Trace principles.

Getting There

From Priest River, Idaho, drive north on State Highway 57 approximately 10 miles. Watch for the Priest River Trailhead pullout on the east side of the highway. A passenger vehicle can manage the drive.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The easy-moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Kaniksu National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Priest River Trailhead off State Highway 57 north of Priest River. Gravel pullout, no fee.

← Back to Kaniksu National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Priest River Trail?
The trail is rated easy-moderate with only 400 feet of gain over 2.5 miles one way. It is accessible to most hikers and popular with families.
Is the Priest River good for fishing?
Yes. The Priest River is a designated steelhead and salmon recovery stream. A valid Idaho fishing license is required; check Idaho Department of Fish and Game for current species and seasonal regulations.
What birds are common on the Priest River?
Osprey and bald eagle are commonly seen hunting the river. Great blue heron, merganser, and numerous songbird species also use the riparian corridor.
When is the best time to visit the Priest River Trail?
April through October. Spring and fall offer the best fishing conditions and wildlife watching. Spring migration brings additional bird species through the corridor.