Trails Through Idaho White Clouds Is A Hiker’s Dream Come True

There's still plenty of time to get that last warm-weather hike in before October in Idaho gets too chilly. For anyone who has ever explored the forest between Sun Valley and Challis, then you might have gotten as close to backcountry perfection as you can possibly get.

To hike to these surrounding lakes you'll need plenty of supplies and at least four to five days to spend sleeping outdoors.

October arrives on Tuesday, which means we have a couple more weeks of soaking in the sun in Idaho outdoors and exploring in light clothing before the rain begins to fall and the wind begins to howl. The harsher weather also makes extreme hikes for those experienced much tougher. If it's isolation and serenity you seek, follow your compass to the Idaho White Clouds.

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Well over half a million acres of scarcely-visited, unmarked trails leading to peaks over 11,000 feet and numerous lakes with crystal blue waters make up this region of central Idaho. Emerald Lake is just one of the magnificent spots to stop for a day of fishing, but these hikes require having the time off to truly enjoy the experience. The reflections from the mountains onto the lake water are truly amazing.

While I've never had the opportunity to hike extensively in the White Clouds, I have spent a great deal of time kayaking and camping just northwest of Emerald Lake in Stanley, and the scenery is some of the best in the state. Emerald Lake is less than 30 miles northeast of Sawtooth City, but driving there isn't possible.

To hike to these surrounding lakes you'll need plenty of supplies and at least four to five days to spend sleeping outdoors.