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Herd Lake Trail

Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
1,600 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
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

  • Remote high-elevation lake above 8,000 feet in alpine basin terrain
  • Excellent solitude even by Salmon-Challis standards
  • Lake cutthroat trout fishing with minimal angling pressure
  • Views of the surrounding White Cloud and Boulder Mountain terrain
  • Good sub-alpine wildflower meadows on the approach

Overview

Herd Lake sits above 8,000 feet in the White Cloud area of the Salmon-Challis National Forest, accessible via a 6-mile round trip that provides alpine lake solitude without the extreme access demands of the forest's most remote destinations. Located in Idaho's Custer County, this trail rarely sees organized groups and most trail register entries are individual parties making the drive to the trailhead as the primary commitment.

The White Cloud Mountains are a compact range with excellent lake density, most of which is managed by the adjacent Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Herd Lake sits in the Salmon-Challis portion, which draws even fewer visitors. The result is a trail where genuine solitude is the norm.

The Route

Trailhead Through Lower Terrain (0 to 1.5 miles)

The approach crosses open sub-alpine terrain on a clear trail with views of the surrounding mountains visible immediately. The lower section is open and the grade is moderate. Seasonal water from small streams appears in wet meadow sections around mile 1.

Alpine Meadows and Upper Approach (1.5 to 2.7 miles)

The trail crosses beautiful sub-alpine meadows with summer wildflowers through mid-July. The terrain is open and the lake basin becomes visible from the high point before the final descent to the lake. The approach is straightforward and well-cairned on the rocky sections.

Herd Lake (3.0 miles)

The lake sits in an open granite basin with a clear, cold shoreline. Rocky shelves around the lake provide excellent fishing and photography positions. Camping spots are available on slightly elevated benches away from the shoreline per Leave No Trace guidelines. Return via the same route.

When to Hike

July and August are the prime months. The trail typically clears snow by mid-July. Wildflowers peak in the meadows through late July.

September is the solitude peak. Snow is possible by late September at this elevation but the trail usually stays accessible through early October.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water from the trailhead, refilling via filtered creek sources on the approach. A fishing license and light tackle add significant value at the destination. Pack out all waste; this is a truly leave-no-trace destination.

Trailhead Access

Herd Lake Trailhead is reached via the Fourth of July Creek Road from Challis. The final approach is rough and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. No fee or permit is required (as of 2026). No restroom is present. Space for 8 to 10 vehicles at the trailhead pull-out.

Dogs are welcome.

Nearby

Herd Lake is in the southern Salmon-Challis, closer to Challis than Salmon. Bighorn Crags is the forest's other outstanding alpine lake destination but requires a much longer access drive. East Fork Salmon Trail is in the same general area and offers a river-corridor alternative.

Check road conditions before the drive using the USFS conditions guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles carefully at the lake.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel lot at the Herd Lake Trailhead accessed via Fourth of July Creek Road. High clearance recommended on final miles. Space for 8 to 10 vehicles.

← Back to Salmon-Challis National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Herd Lake Trail take?
The 6-mile round trip takes most hikers 3 to 4.5 hours. The 1,600-foot gain is moderate and distributed across the full approach, making this a comfortable half-day or full-morning outing.
Is Herd Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted. The moderate terrain and lake access make this a comfortable outing for fit dogs. Carry water for your dog as the early sections of the trail are dry.
Is fishing available at Herd Lake?
Yes. Herd Lake holds cutthroat trout and sees very light angling pressure given the access distance. An Idaho fishing license is required (as of 2026). Small flies and spinners are the standard approach.