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Maiden Rock

Just south of the city of Cocolalla, on the west side of Lake Pend Oreille-Idaho’s largest and deepest lake-a short trail descends to the lake and to a large distinguishing feature known as Maiden Rock. This granite formation towers nearly 300 feet above the water and reaches nearly 100 feet into the lake. It is blanketed by mosses and lichens, grasses and herbs. At the southern base of the rock is a peaceful, flat-stone beach about a quarter mile long. There is  ample camping area, four picnic tables, fire rings and a restroom facility-all shaded under the cover of a healthy stand of trees.

The Maiden Creek Trail #321 begins just over 1,000 feet above the lake and ends at the stunning beach on Lake Pend Oreille.   A soft descent leads into a lush forest fed by the seasonal waters of Maiden Creek. Passing by a series of steep, dry talus slopes to the north of the trail, the route takes a steeper descent toward the lake (at times switchbacking) through thick undergrowth composed of berries, lilies, wild ginger and a number of other exquisite flowers. You may want to bring trekking poles to safely pass some of the loose, steep sections of the trail. It is a relatively easy descent to the lake and a moderately difficult hike back up to the trailhead.

Directions:
From Sandpoint, travel south on Highway 95 approximately 10 miles  to just beyond the city of Cocolalla. After passing Tri Con Bolt on the right, take your first left for Blacktail Road and begin traveling east for approximately 1.5 miles to Butler Creek Road 230. Make a left onto Butler Creek Road 230 and travel 3 miles to the end of the road, which marks the trailhead for Maiden Creek Trail #321.

Location

Cocolalla, Lake Pend Oreille

Distance

4.6 miles round trip

Elevation

2,000 ft total

Difficulty

Easy down to the lake

Maps

USGS Quad-Cocolalla; Sandpoint Online Lake Walks Guide

Status

Kaniksu National Forest Land

More Info

Sandpoint Magazine’s “Hiking to a Lake Landmark, Maiden Rock”
http://www.sandpointonline.com/sandpointmag/sms01/hiking.htm