Near Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1
The top of Sidewinder
Near Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1
Lake Pend Oreille is seen in the distance to the southeast from the high meadows of Watershed Crest Trail.
Near Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1
Beargrass in the beautiful sunlit woods in mid June.
Near Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1
Nearby conifer forested hills seen from Watershed Crest Trail.
Near Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1
The views open up as Watershed Crest Trail climbs into meadows. Here we see Lake Pend Oreille in the distance to the southeast.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Watershed Crest Trail: Phase 1

4.0 (3 Ratings)
This is phase 1 of the Watershed Crest Trail with stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille
4.9
mi
Distance
1,905
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsLakeViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
None unless mud is an issue during spring breakup or the snow is too deep.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.86mi
Distance
1,905ft
Elevation Gain
40ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
6,102ft
High Point
4,189ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail starts at the roundabout on Schweitzer Mountain Road. It makes its way through beautiful alpine forests and breaks out onto stunning beargrass and huckleberry meadows. Though often steep, the trail is smooth which makes travel along the way relaxed and pleasant. The views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River are absolutely gorgeous!

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Jim Mellen