Take a break at Brush Lake and trail

“Of all the paths you take in life make sure a few of them are dirt.” — John Muir, 1838-1914, “Father of National Parks” naturalist and author.

When you choose to live in Boundary County you give yourself the chance to explore the county's spectacular lakes and hiking country.

Take a break from the grind and visit one of the many alpine lakes for quiet solitude by hiking to your favorite lake. Boundary County is filled with lakes, creeks, trails and ponds to enjoy — and the time to enjoy them is now.

Recently I hiked partially around Brush Lake. Hiking is a wonderful way to immerse your-self in the outdoors. Transported by your own two feet and carrying only what you need for the hike on your back, you can discover the beauty of nature at whatever pace you’re comfortable with. And, with a little planning and preparation, it’s activity that almost anyone can do.

Brush Lake and Brush Lake trail are located 18 miles north of Bonners Ferry on U.S. Highway 95. Then turn right on Brush Lake Road and continue for 2.2 miles until you see the lake and trail head.

Brush Lake is a picturesque, low altitude, easily accessible, 38-acre lake noted for its excellent fishing. Both bank and boat fishing are permitted in the area. Power boats are prohibited; however, boats with electric motors can be launched from either the campground or the day-use area.

A fishing dock is located in the day-use area. The most frequent game fish caught are rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and perch. Some of the other main attractions at Brush lake are boating, camping, trails along with wildlife viewing, peaceful natural environments, sight-seeing and terrific landscapes.

Brush Lake is a site on the 40-mile Purcell Mountain route of the Idaho Wildlife Viewing Guide. Moose can be seen browsing near the beaver ponds at the north end or swimming in the lake. Whitetail deer are abundant year around, while mule deer and elk can be seen during the winter season when they return from the “high” country.

Bears and cougars also live in these forests, but are seldom seen. Other mammals include Columbian ground squirrels, chipmunks, and squirrels.

Brush Loop Trail No. 377 is a 5.6-mile trail that was designed for hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts. This fun and challenging single-path loop through the foothills of Queen Mountain is an intermediate trail with great views of the surrounding area and nearby Brush Lake.

Brush Lake Trail No. 376 is 1 mile in length and is designed for an easy hike. Trail No. 376 has nice viewpoints of the wetlands that surround Brush Lake. Taking a left at the intersection leads to a viewing platform at the edge of the wetland, right to an overlook with a bench. And there is plenty of room for parking at the trail head.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks. Bikers and hikers battle bug bites, blisters and bruises for the sake of overcoming a challenge and enjoying some quality time with nature. But along with the mountain-top and lake views come an abundance of mental and physical perks and just the enjoyment that you are there.

Enjoy Boundary County and its beautiful lakes, streams and rivers and mountain trails.

New book announcement “Outdoors in North Idaho” by Don Bartling ……available at Bonner’s Books in Bonners Ferry.