Shannon Lake Trail offers spectacular views, quick hike

The Shannon Lake Trail offers breathtaking views of the Kootenai River and the surrounding landscape.

The trail near Troy is a short hike to a small lake between the Old Highway 2 Trail and Grambauer Trail.

The trail can be accessed from the Old Highway 2 Trail. The trail is approximately one mile long and is given a difficulty rating of moderate by the Three Rivers Ranger District.

“It’s a good supplement to the Old Highway 2 Trail,” Dave Thorstenson, the Recreation Manager for the Three Rivers Ranger District said. “For those hikers that are looking for a shorter trail it’s a good alternative to the longer Old Highway 2 Trail.”

The beginning of the trail is steep and can be a challenge. If a hiker can make it through the beginning of the trail they will be rewarded with views of the Kootenai River and the surrounding landscape.

“It’s fairly steep and rocky at the very beginning,” Thorstenson said. “It’s relatively scenic. It has nice views of the Kootenai River and the mountains. It’s probably not a good trail for younger kids to hike.”

The lake is shallow and does not hold any fish for those that are hoping to take home dinner. But, it’s a good lake to take a dip on a hot summer day.

The Shannon Lake Trail is a suitable trail for those hikers that are looking for a short, but more challenging hike.

“It’s a quick hike, but it’s not an easy one,” Thorstenson said. “Be sure to wear proper hiking footwear, take your time and be safe.”