Overview
The Lochsa River runs 75 miles from its headwaters in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness to its confluence with the Selway River near Lowell, never once passing through a dam. This undammed, free-flowing character makes the Lochsa one of the most significant wild river corridors in the Pacific Northwest, a landscape that has changed relatively little since the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through here in 1805.
The Lochsa River Trail offers a 6-mile round-trip through the old-growth forest that lines the river's upper reaches near the Powell Ranger Station. The trail maintains a relatively modest 500-foot elevation gain, keeping close to the river for most of its length. The old-growth cedars and Douglas fir that dominate this section create a cathedral-like forest of extraordinary scale, with trees of a size uncommon in the rest of the Northern Rockies.
The trail is accessible from Highway 12, one of the most scenic drives in Idaho, making it convenient for travelers passing through the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest corridor. It is also a good option for visitors who have come for the river itself, providing a forest context for the landscape visible from the highway.
River conditions are part of the experience here. The Lochsa runs clear and powerful, visible through the trees throughout most of the trail. In late spring and early summer, the river carries high water from snowmelt in the Bitterroot watershed above. By August, flows decrease but the river remains impressive.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3.0: Upstream
The trail begins at the Powell Ranger Station area (approximately 3,500 feet) and follows the Lochsa River upstream along its south bank. The forest is immediately impressive: large western red cedars and Douglas fir line the trail, with massive fallen logs providing habitat for mosses, ferns, and the small mammals that inhabit old-growth forests.
The gradient is minimal for the first 2 miles, making the walking easy and allowing attention to focus on the surrounding forest and river. Several side trails drop to the riverbank, providing close access to the water and good fishing spots.
At approximately mile 2, the trail gains a minor bench above the river as the canyon narrows slightly. The views of the river from this elevated section are some of the best on the route. The trail returns to river level by mile 2.5.
The turnaround at mile 3 is at a point where the maintained trail ends and the terrain ahead becomes more demanding. This is a natural rest stop at a bend in the river.
When to Visit
May through October. The low starting elevation makes this one of the earliest trails in the forest to open after winter. High water in May and June can make riverside sections dramatic and wet. Summer and fall offer the most comfortable conditions.
Fall color in the deciduous components of the forest (primarily vine maple and cottonwood along the river) peaks in late September and early October.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this trail carry:
- 1-2 liters of water; the river is nearby but requires filtering
- A water filter
- Layers for the shaded forest; the old-growth canopy keeps the trail notably cooler than open terrain at similar elevations
- Insect repellent in May and June
- Rain gear; the Lochsa corridor receives significantly more precipitation than most of Idaho
Individual needs vary.
Practical Details
No permit required as of 2026. Flush toilets at the Powell Ranger Station. Cell service absent along the highway corridor. Dogs permitted on leash.
Leave No Trace principles in old-growth forest include staying on designated trails to avoid damaging root systems and fragile understory vegetation.
Check current conditions for road and river levels before visiting, particularly in spring.
Getting There
From Kooskia, drive east on Highway 12 approximately 65 miles to the Powell Ranger Station. The ranger station is on the right (south) side of the highway and serves as the trailhead access point. The drive from Kooskia takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Missoula, Montana, drive west on Highway 12 over Lolo Pass approximately 1.5 hours to the Powell area.