Idaho · Hiking

Swampy Meadows

5.5 mi
round trip
2,668 ft
climb
8,485 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Is Swampy Meadows open right now?

Alert in the area

The Forest Service lists an alert for Salmon-Challis National Forest.

As of · Source: USFS · Salmon-Challis National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Swampy Meadows is a 5.5-mile out-and-back hike in Idaho's Salmon-Cobalt Ranger District, part of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. It is managed by the Forest Service and rated moderate, with a total elevation gain of 2,668 feet over the round trip. The route starts near 8,476 feet and reaches a high point of about 8,485 feet, so the climb is nearly the same as the descent. The trail has a natural surface, and bikes are allowed. The steepest section comes at about 2.1 miles, where the grade reaches 25 percent. Plan on about three hours for the trip, and the trail is open year-round. Other hikes sit within a few miles, including Point of Rocks at 1.7 miles and Brushy Gulch at 2.8 miles. For an overnight stay, Wallace Lake Campground is about 7.4 miles away.