Copper Falls well worth the hike
Waterfalls are exciting because they have power, they have rainbows, they have songs and their voice of power speaks.
— Author unknown
Sometimes the beauty of Boundary County can best be seen when traveling by foot. Recently I went on a short but vigorous hike to Copper Falls, one of the scenic waterfalls in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. Boundary County has more than 350 miles of developed hiking and horseback trails. Hikers can choose easy, part-day walks or extended backpacking trips.
Copper Falls was a nice short hike to see a good-sized cascade. The trail into Copper Falls is mild and well maintained. The trail was an easy outing for my first April hike. The Copper Falls trail was well-marked and easy to follow with many interesting and informative interpretive signs making me look forward to the next trail to a waterfall in Boundary County.
From the trailhead, I hiked the sometimes steep but invigorating three-tenths of a mile until reaching an exceptional viewing area of the large outpouring of water at Copper Falls. The view of the falls, the sounds of the rushing water and smell of the spring air in the mountains was well worth the vigorous hike. It took my breath away watching the water as it cascaded down the mountain for approximately 160 feet in full force.
After the falls overlook I enjoyed hiking the Loop Trail down the mountain to the floor of the ravine. The Loop Trail crosses the creek through large mature trees before climbing back up the mountain and returning to the trailhead.
For directions to Copper Falls, head north on Hwy 95 from Bonners Ferry, at the top of the hill out of Bonners Ferry is 3 Mile. After the light at 3 mile, go about 25.5 miles on Hwy 95. Immediately after crossing the Moyie River, turn right at Border Lane onto road #2517. The road is paved and then changes to gravel. The trailhead is about two and a half miles from turning onto #2517.
Other beautiful falls in Boundary County include Myrtle Creek Falls, Lower Snow Creek Falls, Moyie Falls, Smith Creek Falls and Snow Creek Falls.
Although I do not hike as much as I should, hiking exercises almost every part of the body: legs, knees, ankles, arms, hips, abdominals, shoulders and neck. What I like about hiking other than physical activity is that it also exercises the mind and nourishes the imagination. It creates awareness in your eyes, nose, ears and the rest of your senses. Hiking is a good way to leave the everyday pressures behind and recharge your battery. There is no better place to hike and enjoy the scenery than Boundary County.
In the summer months I would encourage scenic hikers to bring bug repellent and of course bear spray while viewing these beautiful trails and waterfalls.
Enjoy the beauty of Boundary County by hiking with a friend or family members to one of the many scenic waterfalls.