Wind Lakes in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness

[Dan Gregerson]

I did a 2-day trip in the Selway Bitteroot Wilderness of central Idaho over the last weekend in June, 2019. Mileage: 34, elevation gain (and loss) 5600′, total pack weight: 22 lbs.

Most locals and many tourists who happen to drive Highway 12 over Lolo pass are familiar with Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. It’s a beautiful, natural springs (several pools spread out over about half a mile) and lies less than a mile off the highway, so it’s very popular. Not many people travel beyond the springs though, which is a shame, because it’s beautiful country and rarely traveled.

I hiked on the first day to lower and upper Wind lakes and camped at the latter (on a bare spot, but with snow all around).

 

Then, on the second day, hiked up to Friday Pass for a beautiful 360 view of the wilderness,

and looped around Saturday ridge, down to Warm Springs Creek. First day involved 8 fords and most of the elevation gain. Second day was mostly downhill, but 18 miles on faint trails. Never saw another person beyond the hot springs.

For the complete video trip report: Wind Lakes in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness

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