Myrtle Peak - Pack River Trail #6

The primary purpose for Myrtle Peak – Pack River Trail #6 is to provide access to Harrison Lake from the Bonners Ferry area. This trail is very enjoyable to hike. It transitions through several different types of habitats ranging from brushy and open, old fir and spruce stands, and rocky areas. There is potential to see many different animals including deer, bear, occasionally elk, marmots, pikas and a wide variety of birds. Not far from here is Harrison Peak (elevation 7,292 feet) which sports several rock areas which are popular with technical climbers.

Beyond the trailhead the road is not drivable. The trail follows road for about 0.5 miles before it comes to a 20-foot-wide stream crossing. The trail continues on the old road past the creek for a few hundred feet and then immediately starts switch backing up the hill at a moderate 20% grade. At about the 1.5-mile mark, the trail leaves the heavy brushy area and enters a more timbered area. The trail is easily visible. The pass area is beautiful with tiny creeks, mountain lilies, bear grass, huckleberry brush and a view of Harrison Peak through the trees. The trail from here descends at a gentle pace until about the 2.7-mile mark. At this point, the trail crosses open rock areas with scenic views of the Pack River drainage. At the three-mile mark, Trail #6 junctions with Trail #217 from Pack River, where the hiker can either go to Harrison Lake (about 0.2 miles from here) or continue into the Sandpoint Ranger District area.