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Fourth of July Lake
August 7, 2010
Fourth of July Lake is probably the single most popular hiking destination in the White Clouds. Is a very pretty area, and only a short 3-mile round trip hike on a well maintained trail. It also a popular launching point for several other multi-day backpacking options in the area. A ten-mile drive on rough dirt roads keeps out some of the crowds, but expect to see a couple dozen cars at the Fourth of July trailhead any given weekend.
We were doing some family car camping near the Salmon River, and I managed to talk my wife and dad into hiking to Fourth of July Lake in the afternoon. My youngest son (age 4) rounded our high-powered hiking team. The lower section of the trail is still somewhat scarred by a 2005 forest fire, but its recovering nicely and wildflowers are abundant. We set a comfortable pace, enjoying the views along the way of wildflower filled meadows and meandering streams. The weather was perfect, and we enjoyed a snack at the lake while snapping photos. It was very enjoyable, in spite of some hungry bugs that patrolled the shores of the lake. Soon enough, it was time to head down, and we made it back to the car in about 3 hours round trip. I think we all had a great time, and built some great memories.
Map of the route, about 3 miles round trip with 500' of elevation gain.
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Some burn area, not far from the trailhead.
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Taking a break in the wildflowers.
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Three generations at Fourth of July Lake.
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Sitting on the rock with Grandpa.
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Navigating the a stream crossing.
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Quick break on the way down.
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Poser on a rock.
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