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Selkirk Crest Trail

Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
14 mi
Elevation Gain
3,400 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Est. Time
6-9 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
None
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

  • Spectacular Selkirk Crest ridge with views into Canada, Washington, and Montana
  • Alpine meadows and wildflower displays in July and August
  • Woodland caribou habitat in the northern Selkirks
  • One of the most dramatic ridge routes in the northern Idaho Panhandle
  • Remote trail with exceptional solitude throughout the season
viewssummitwildflowersalpine meadow

Overview

The Selkirk Crest Trail traverses the high spine of the Selkirk Mountains through Kaniksu National Forest, delivering one of the most dramatic ridge hike experiences in the northern Idaho Panhandle. The 14-mile strenuous out-and-back gains 3,400 feet and follows the crest with views into Canada, Washington, and Montana.

The northern Selkirks are one of the last places in the contiguous United States where woodland caribou survive. While sightings are rare, the knowledge that these animals range the same ridgelines adds a remarkable dimension to the experience.

The Pack River Divide Trail provides an alternative Kaniksu forest ridge experience for those building a multi-day Selkirk area trip.

The Route

The trail begins at the forest road trailhead and climbs steeply to the crest. Once on the ridge, the trail follows the crest with continuous views on both sides. The high point of the route provides the best panorama. Return via the same route.

When to Visit

Mid-July through September. The exposed crest retains snow into early July. Afternoon thunderstorms are a concern; start early. September offers excellent visibility and far fewer visitors.

Practical Details

No facilities at the trailhead. Carry all water; no reliable sources on the ridge. Dispersed camping is permitted below the crest. The 10 Essentials are essential for this remote, exposed route.

Getting There

From Sandpoint, Idaho, drive north on US-95 and then follow forest roads into the northern Kaniksu. High-clearance vehicle required. Contact the Kaniksu Ranger District for specific directions and current road conditions.

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 strenuous 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

Selkirk Crest Trailhead off Forest Road in northern Kaniksu National Forest. Gravel pullout, no fee.

← Back to Kaniksu National Forest

More Trails in Kaniksu National Forest

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Ball Lakes Trail

9.4 mi2,200 ft gain
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Hike to Ball Lakes in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 9.4-mile out-and-back climbs into the Selkirk Mountains to a pair of remote alpine lakes with views.

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Cabinet Mountains Loop

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Hike the Cabinet Mountains Loop in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 11.0-mile loop enters the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness with alpine lakes and views.

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Pack River Divide Trail

10 mi2,600 ft gain
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Hike the Pack River Divide Trail in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 10.0-mile out-and-back climbs to a dramatic divide with views and wildflowers.

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Priest River Trail

5 mi400 ft gain
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Walk the Priest River Trail in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This easy-moderate 5.0-mile out-and-back follows the Priest River through old-growth forest with wildlife watching.

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Roman Nose Lakes Trail

8.2 mi2,000 ft gain
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Hike to Roman Nose Lakes in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This moderate-hard 8.2-mile out-and-back climbs to a pair of scenic alpine lakes beneath the dramatic Roman Nose peaks.

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Round Top Mountain Trail

12 mi3,600 ft gain
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Climb Round Top Mountain in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 12.0-mile out-and-back gains 3,600 feet to a summit with views across the northern Idaho and Washington Panhandle.

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moderate-hardloop

Schweitzer Basin Trail

7 mi1,800 ft gain
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Hike the Schweitzer Basin Trail in Kaniksu National Forest, Idaho. This moderate-hard 7.0-mile loop traverses the summer terrain above Schweitzer Mountain Resort with views and wildflowers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What views are available from the Selkirk Crest?
The Selkirk Crest offers views north into British Columbia, west into Washington's Pend Oreille County, and east toward the Cabinet Mountains of Montana.
Are there woodland caribou in the Selkirks?
The southern Selkirk Mountains support one of the last woodland caribou populations in the contiguous United States. Sightings are rare but possible. Do not approach any caribou you encounter.
How difficult is the Selkirk Crest Trail?
The trail is considered strenuous with 3,400 feet of gain over 7 miles one way. The exposed ridgeline and remote location require solid fitness and experience.
When does the Selkirk Crest open?
The high ridge is typically snow-free from mid-July through mid-September. Check with the Kaniksu Ranger District for current conditions.