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Williams Lake Trail

Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
4.4 mi
Elevation Gain
1,400 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
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

  • Scenic alpine lake with views of the surrounding mountain terrain
  • One of the most accessible alpine lake hikes near Salmon, Idaho
  • Good native cutthroat trout fishing in the lake
  • Moderate grade suitable for hikers of various experience levels
  • Wildflowers in the upper basin through mid-July

Overview

Williams Lake is the most accessible alpine lake hike near the town of Salmon in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, offering a 4.4-mile round trip with 1,400 feet of gain from a trailhead south of town. For a forest known for its extreme remoteness and demanding terrain, Williams Lake provides a welcoming moderate option. The lake itself sits in a natural bowl above the Salmon River Valley with views of the surrounding mountains and good fishing for native cutthroat.

Located in Idaho's Lemhi County, this trail is popular with locals from Salmon and with visitors using the town as a base before or after deeper wilderness travel. The accessible distance and clear trail make it an ideal warm-up or acclimatization day for parties preparing for more ambitious objectives in the Frank Church Wilderness.

The Route

Trailhead to Mid-Climb (0 to 1.5 miles)

The trail begins in sagebrush and transitions to scattered conifers as elevation is gained. The lower section is open with views back toward the Salmon River Valley below. The grade is steady without being punishing, and the trail surface is well-maintained throughout.

Upper Forest and Basin Approach (1.5 to 2.0 miles)

Above 6,500 feet the conifers thicken and the trail enters a subalpine zone. The final half mile before the lake climbs more steeply through open rocky terrain with summer wildflowers through mid-July. The lake basin becomes visible from the final approach.

Williams Lake (2.2 miles)

The lake occupies a natural granite bowl at approximately 7,800 feet. The shoreline is open and accessible, with several rock benches suited to lunch breaks and fishing. The surrounding terrain invites exploration above the lake toward the higher ridges for those with energy and time. Return via the same route.

When to Hike

June through October covers the accessible season. The lower trail opens in late May most years, and the upper basin is typically clear by mid-June.

July is peak season for wildflowers and the most popular month. The lake is at its fullest in early July and fishing is productive through August.

September and October offer quiet conditions and excellent fall color on the approach slopes.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry a liter or two of water for this shorter route, supplementing with lake water filtered at the destination. Sun protection is important on the open lower approach. An Idaho fishing license is required to fish the lake (as of 2026).

The upper basin is exposed and temperatures drop quickly in afternoon shade. A light insulating layer is worth carrying even on warm days.

Trailhead Access

Williams Lake Trailhead is on a forest road south of Salmon, accessible from US-93. The road is gravel and suitable for most vehicles. No fee or permit is required (as of 2026). A vault restroom is present. Space for 10 to 12 vehicles at the gravel trailhead lot.

Dogs are permitted. The lake is popular for dogs that enjoy swimming.

Nearby

Williams Lake is the most convenient lake hike from Salmon. Sacajawea Peak Trail provides the area's demanding summit option. The Salmon River Trail offers a contrasting river-corridor experience. For those interested in comparing the Salmon-Challis to adjacent forests, our national forest vs. national park guide provides useful context.

Check conditions before heading out using the USFS guide and practice Leave No Trace principles particularly at the lake where camping impact concentrates near the shoreline.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel lot at the Williams Lake Trailhead off Salmon River Road south of Salmon. Space for 10 to 12 vehicles.

← Back to Salmon-Challis National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Williams Lake Trail take?
The 4.4-mile round trip takes most hikers 2 to 3 hours. The 1,400-foot gain is sustained but moderate, making this a comfortable half-day outing from the town of Salmon.
Is Williams Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted on Williams Lake Trail and enjoy the lake access at the top. Keep dogs under control near the lake to protect the riparian habitat and wildlife.
Is fishing available at Williams Lake?
Yes. Williams Lake holds native cutthroat trout and is popular with anglers who make the hike to avoid the competition on easily accessible river sections. An Idaho fishing license is required (as of 2026).