Mineral Point Trail #82, ID

Overview: Easy, popular trail overlooking Lake Pend Oreille, with opportunities for swimming in the lake at the west end of the trail.


Hike: This trail can be hiked in either direction since there is a parking area at either end. If you want to stay on the paved road, start at the west end at Green Bay Campground. If you don't mind driving a couple of miles of dirt road, begin at the Mineral Point trailhead at the east end. This guide is described from east to west.Starting from the Mineral Point Trailhead, the trail begins at the south end of the lot, on the right side of the restroom, and is signed. Head south on the trail, and you will almost immediately come upon a picnic area with several tables on your left. This spot has some nice views of the lake, but the better views are still ahead of you.

After passing the picnic area, the trail heads downhill, passing a couple more viewpoints. One viewpoint has a plaque honoring a Forest Service Officer who died in the line of duty in 1989. After that spot, the trail heads west, winding back and forth between trees and nice views of the lake. There are some ups and downs, but the trail generally trends downhill. Plenty of shade is provided by what I believe are Western Hemlock trees. A few other trails, both official and social trails, intersect the main trail, but most are signed to keep you on the right track.

There is a rock outcropping next to the trail with great lake views at around one mile. After this viewpoint, the trail drops more noticeable towards the western end of the trail. As you head downhill, Green Bay is visible below you, and there is a bench or two along the trail.

At the western end of the trail, you are at the Green Bay Campground. Several trails lead down to the lake. Following one of these trails down is well worth the little bit of extra walking. The beach is not sand but is water smoothed rock, and the water is nice and clear. There are logs to sit on at water's edge and enjoy the water and view.

The return back to your starting point has more uphill climbing, but it is never steep. Round trip accumulated elevation gain is around 800'.

2021-07-05 LindaAnn