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Elk River Nordic Ski Trails
In north central Idaho, 53 miles east of the city of Moscow, skiiers and snowshoers will find the Elk River Nordic Ski Trails. The trails are rated intermediate to difficult, and include one primary loop trail and a spur from Elk River to the groomed loop.
Click here to view and download our Palouse Winter Recreation brochure!
At a Glance
| Reservations: | None offered |
|---|---|
| Fees: | Idaho State Park N' Ski pass is required November 15- April 30. |
| Permit Info: | Idaho State Park N' Ski pass is required November 15- April 30. Visit the Idaho Parks and Recreation Nordic website for details on how to obtain a 3-day permit or purchase an annual pass. |
| Open Season: | November |
| Best Season: | Winter |
| Busiest Season: | Winter |
| Restrictions: |
All trails are closed to motorized vehicles Dec.15-April 1. Dogs are permitted on ungroomed trails only. |
| Closest Towns: | Elk River, ID |
| Water: | No drinking water offered |
| Restroom: | None |
| Operated By: | USDA Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Palouse Ranger District, 208-875-1131 |
General Information
Directions:Travel east on Hwy 8 from Moscow, ID about 34 miles to Bovill, ID then S. on Hwy 8 approximately 29 miles .
Activities
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Ski trails use Forest Service roads and abandoned railways. There is one primary 2.6 mile groomed loop trail from the plowed parking lot along Idaho State Hwy 8, just west of Elk River. There is a spur from Elk River to the groomed loop, and another spur from Elk Creek Reservoir to the loop. A nice side trip is to snowshoe or ski to Elk Creek Falls, however this trip is more challenging and may be better suited for snowshoeing than skiing depending on one's skill level.
Helpful Links:
Idaho SNOTEL Map with links to snow survey sites in Idaho
Idaho Department of Transportation Weather
| Difficulty Level: | Intermediate to Difficult |
|---|