Pacific NW Trail wilderness guide
National Scenic Trail · WA, ID, MT

Pacific NW Trail

The Pacific NW Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans over 1,200 miles across three states, offering an array of outdoor adventures through diverse terrains.

National Scenic TrailVaries by section; spans multiple protected areas4+ Trails

Designation

National Scenic Trail

Total Wilderness Area

Varies by section; spans multiple protected areas

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pacific NW Trail

The Pacific NW Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that spans over 1,200 miles across three states, offering an array of outdoor adventures through diverse terrains.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) stretches over 1,200 miles from the Pacific Ocean in Washington, through the rugged mountains of Montana, ending at the Continental Divide. Encompassing a diverse array of ecosystems, including coastal rainforests, arid plains, and alpine environments, the trail offers a comprehensive exploration of the unique flora and fauna of the Pacific Northwest. Originally conceived in the 1970s, it was designated a National Scenic Trail in 2009. Adventurers can experience multiple national parks, including Olympic National Park and Glacier National Park, as well as numerous wilderness areas and national forests along the route. Key attractions range from the wild coastlines of the Olympic Peninsula to the historic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. With options for long thru-hikes or shorter sections for day trekking, the PNT is a captivating destination for both seasoned hikers and casual explorers looking to witness the pristine beauty and ecological diversity of this region.

Field Guide · National Scenic Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pacific NW Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cape Alava - the westernmost point of the contiguous United States.✦ Kootenai National Forest - home to diverse wildlife including grizzly bears and moose.✦ Pend Oreille River - offers picturesque waterway views and angling opportunities.✦ Pasayten Wilderness - known for its remote beauty and solitude.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pacific NW Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pacific NW Trail
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Pacific NW Trail
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pacific NW Trail
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Pacific NW Trail
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pacific NW Trail
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Pacific NW Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Trail access is generally free; permits may be required in certain protected areas.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Pacific NW Trail

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Deception Pass Campground

Located at the trail's western terminus, offering excellent amenities and scenic water views.

Colonial Creek Campground

Positioned in the North Cascades along the trail, providing a convenient base for exploration.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Pacific NW Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Priest Lake, Idaho
⌖ 5.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Priest Lake, Idaho

Priest Lake, Idaho, offers outstanding hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping surrounded by dense forests and mountain vistas. This peaceful northern Idaho escape is a top pick for outdoor lovers seeking pristine wilderness and crystal-clear waters.

Summer and Early Fall
Explore Town
Coolin, Idaho
⌖ 7.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Coolin, Idaho

Coolin, Idaho is your tranquil gateway to outdoor thrills on Priest Lake. Whether paddling its glassy waters, hiking forested trails, or snowmobiling miles of snowy paths, Coolin offers wild adventure with a laid-back village charm.

Late Spring through Early Fall, and Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Oldtown, Idaho
⌖ 22.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oldtown, Idaho

Oldtown, Idaho sits right on the Pend Oreille River offering peaceful paddling, fishing, and hiking opportunities in a quiet forested setting ideal for nature lovers and wildlife watchers.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Priest River, Idaho
⌖ 22.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Priest River, Idaho

Priest River, Idaho offers outdoor lovers a peaceful base to hike, bike, fish, and paddle in northern Idaho’s rugged forests and waterways. Its quiet setting and nearby protected lands deliver nature’s best year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall for most activities; Winter for snowmobiling.
Explore Town
Ponderay, Idaho
⌖ 25.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ponderay, Idaho

Ponderay, Idaho, sits along the pristine shores of Lake Pend Oreille, offering year-round outdoor adventures from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and cross-country skiing. Ideal for travelers seeking serene lakeside access and mountain landscapes.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for Nordic skiing
Explore Town
Kootenai, Idaho
⌖ 25.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kootenai, Idaho

Kootenai, Idaho offers quiet access to forested hiking, paddling on Lake Coeur d’Alene, and peaceful camping. It’s a low-key outdoor destination ideal for those seeking nature away from crowds throughout late spring to fall.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pacific NW Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Eight Hours of Waverunner Freedom on Priest Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Priest Lake, Idaho
Jet Ski RentalADV Bookable

Eight Hours of Waverunner Freedom on Priest Lake

A full-day, eight-hour Waverunner rental on Priest Lake that outfits one- or two-person craft with a Bluetooth stereo—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring for a clean, adrenaline-tinged day on the water.

Jet Ski RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip