Idaho is home to hundreds of lakes. While each body of water boasts its own special features and surrounding landscapes, some are a little more beautiful than others. Merriam Lake is one hidden lake that is tucked away in the Lost River Range. It is not only surrounded by mountains, but the mesmerizing blue color of its water makes this lake look like it came right out of a painting.
This hidden lake is not one you can simply drive to. Rather, it requires quite a bit of effort to enjoy. You will have a 3.7-mile out-and-back trail to climb.
Colette Schultz/AllTrails To reach the trailhead, you will turn off Highway 93 and travel on a gravel road. There are some very rough areas on this road and a high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle is strongly encouraged.
Not only will you cover quite a bit of distance on this trail, but you will climb quite high as well. In fact, you will climb approximately 1,500 feet over the entire course of this trail.
Kerstin Taylor/AllTrails While you may find the journey hard at times, you will have remarkable views to distract you.
You can stop to admire Idaho’s natural beauty at the breathtaking waterfalls …
Taylor Hadley/AllTrails
… and near the wildflowers.
Darien Miskin/AllTrails
However, once you reach the lake, be prepared for incredible beauty. The blue water stands out, particularly in its mountain setting.
Carson Lott/AllTrails
Merriam Lake is located at 12,000 feet in elevation. If you visit this lake in late spring and early summer, don’t be surprised if you encounter snow on your journey and find the lake still frozen. However, later in the summer, you can hop on in — just brace yourself for some cold water!
Colette Schultz/AllTrails
Merriam Lake isn’t large but that’s okay. Due to the distance, elevation, and incline, not many people make the journey to this body of water. This means that you may just have the whole lake to yourself!
Larry Barnes/AllTrails
Merriam Lake in Idaho is beautiful in every way. It’s easy to fall in love with Idaho all over again when spending time next to this small lake with its mesmerizing blue water.
Ryan Foster/AllTrails
Have you ever hiked to Merriam Lake? If so, what did you think of the journey and the lake itself? Let us know in the comments! And, if you are searching for another lake in Idaho with blue water, check out Upper Palisades Lake.
Colette Schultz/AllTrails
To reach the trailhead, you will turn off Highway 93 and travel on a gravel road. There are some very rough areas on this road and a high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle is strongly encouraged.
Kerstin Taylor/AllTrails
While you may find the journey hard at times, you will have remarkable views to distract you.
Taylor Hadley/AllTrails
Darien Miskin/AllTrails
Carson Lott/AllTrails
Larry Barnes/AllTrails
Ryan Foster/AllTrails
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Address: Merriam Lake, Idaho 83253, USA
