Our Trail Spotlight highlights day trips to multi-day hikes across Idaho. Trail conditions can change quickly- swollen rivers can become impassable, windstorms can knock trees down across trails, and snow can come earlier than expected. Please take these recommendations as a jumping off place and do additional research to understand current conditions and  keep yourself safe if you choose to hike this trail. Physical guidebooks and maps are always good to have or check out some online resources like Alltrails.com for updated trail reports. If your trip is as awesome as you hope it will be, please share photos and feedback!

Trail Spotlight: Upper Palisades Lake Trail

Recommended by: Taylor Mailly, ITA Youth Program Coordinator

Duration: Day Hike or Overnight Backpacking

Area: Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Difficulty Rating: 4, with most of the elevation gain concentrated in the final mile. While much of the trail climbs gradually, the steep push to the upper lake and the total distance make this a more strenuous hike.

Road Considerations:
Access is via Palisades Creek Road, a long gravel forest road. Road conditions can vary depending on weather and season. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, and 4WD may be helpful after heavy rain or earlier in the season.

Total hiking miles: 13.9 miles out and back

The Hike:

The Upper Palisades Lake Trail begins in dense forest, following Palisades Creek as it winds steadily uphill. The lower portion of the hike is shaded and enclosed by trees and brush, with the sound of rushing water accompanying the gradual climb. As elevation is gained, the scenery begins to change—forested stretches transition into open meadows that provide glimpses of surrounding peaks and a growing sense of scale within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

During the summer months, wildflowers fill the hillsides with vibrant color, and wildlife sightings are common. Deer and elk are frequently seen grazing in open areas, and moose are known to inhabit the drainage. With each switchback, views expand, revealing more of the surrounding canyon and distant mountain ridgelines. In clear conditions, Palisades Reservoir appears below, its blue water contrasting with the rugged terrain above.

The trail is well-maintained but includes rocky sections, particularly as it climbs higher. Most of the elevation gain is concentrated in the final mile beyond Lower Palisades Lake, where the route steepens noticeably. This last stretch demands steady effort, but the dramatic scenery provides ample motivation to continue upward.

Upper Palisades Lake sits in a striking alpine basin, surrounded by jagged peaks that reflect off its clear, turquoise water. The shoreline offers plenty of space to rest and take in the setting, making it an excellent destination for both day hikers and backpackers. The lake is popular for fishing, and on warm days, some visitors enjoy a cold but refreshing swim. The combination of mountain views, open sky, and pristine water makes Upper Palisades Lake a rewarding and memorable endpoint.

Places to camp along the way:
There are established campsites near Upper Palisades Lake, making this a great option for an overnight trip. Camp on durable surfaces, follow Leave No Trace principles, and camp at least 100 feet from water sources.

Things to consider:
Snow can linger into early summer, and creek levels may be higher during spring runoff. Mosquitoes can be intense near the lakes and meadows later in the season. Moose and bear are frequently spotted here; remember to give wildlife space and to always properly store food and carry bear spray.

Fun places to visit on your way in or out:
The nearby town of Alpine, Wyoming, or a stop along the Snake River corridor offers great options for food, scenic pullouts, and relaxing post-hike hot springs. Palisades Reservoir is also nearby and makes for a nice add-on to the trip.

More info about this hike:
Upper Palisades Lake Trail is listed on AllTrails with recent trip reports, photos, and condition updates.