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Roman Nose Lakes

This easy, well-traveled trail system sends hikers into the heart of some of the most beautiful terrain in the Selkirks. Nested beneath the towering presence of 7,260-ft Roman Nose Peak, the trailhead offers hikers access to three different lakes and the potential for an off-trail scramble with stunning views of the Selkirk Crest from the top of the peak. Camping is only available at the trailhead facilities in designated areas near the main lake due to the popularity of this location.

From the parking lot, access to the main lake is a simple stroll across a boardwalk. From the trailhead, cross a footbridge to begin the gentle climb toward the two upper lakes. Climb through subalpine firs and granite rocks to reach the first junction on your right to a spur trail that offers spectacular views of the lower lake and its glacial cirque. Bear left and continue on to another junction to reach a scenic interpretive loop that switchbacks to 6,410 ft and offers captivating views of the lower lake.

To take a more direct route to the backcountry lakes through a beautiful forest in recovery after the Sundance forest fire of 1967, continue on Trail 165.

Directions:
From U.S. Highway 95 north of Sandpoint, turn west into Naples. Bear right on Deep Creek Road. Drive 2 miles to a Y and take the gravel road to the left. Drive 9.5 miles on Forest Road 402 (Snow Creek), passing the turnoff to Cooks Pass Road, and bear left onto Road 1007. Drive 7.3 miles, over Caribou and Ruby Passes, and turn right toward Roman Nose Lakes on Road 2667. Go 0.5 miles and bear right at the Y. Drive another mile to the overflow parking area. Continue 0.5 mile, passing the campground turnoff, to the trailhead near Roman Nose Lake 3.

Location: Selkirk Mountains
Status: Proposed wilderness
Maps: ICL Guide to the Selkirks; Kaniksu National Forest; or Google Maps
More information:  Idaho Panhandle National Forests-Bonners Ferry District

Location

Selkirk Mountains

Distance

3-4 miles round trip

Elevation

100 to 500 ft; 1,300 ft to summit

Difficulty

Easy

Maps

USGS Roman Nose

Status

Proposed wilderness

More Info

100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest
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