Colgate Licks Nature Trail

Idaho offers beautiful landscapes and many outdoor adventures for all. If you and your pup are wanting a short, scenic hike, the town of Kooskia offers just what you are looking for. The Colgate Licks Nature National Recreational Trail is the perfect choice here.

This pup-tastic trail travels 1.25-miles and is located near the Lochsa River in Clearwater National Forest. It is well known as a place where nature shines through the forests and where wildflowers grow abundantly. The name comes from the natural mineral licks that present important minerals to the wildlife that frequent the area.

The nature trail has a varied landscape and footings of dirt and rock. There are a few steep ascents and descents that are short-lived, but need to be considered. These flatten out and the trail winds through forested areas, as well as open meadows. The summit of the trail offers lovely views of the area. Although the trail is only 24” wide, it is comfortable to pass if you meet another hiker. The trail can become muddy after a heavy rain or snow.

Open year-round, the Colgate Licks Nature Trail is a highlight for many residents and visitors as it offers a place to take your fur-ever friend and enjoy the great outdoors. The best time to visit is during the months of March through October. Only hikers share this trail, and it is not available to motorized vehicles, bicyclers or horseback riders. It therefore remains a quiet respite from urban life.

Be sure to pack plenty of water, even though this is a relatively short hike. The summers can offer hot, humid weather so plan accordingly. Carry mutt mitts to keep this trail pup-friendly and be aware the area does not offer restrooms.

Don’t miss the Colgate Licks Nature Trail in beautiful Idaho.