Glide & Trek: Your Guide to Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Near Idaho Falls
December in Eastern Idaho transforms the landscape into a pristine, silent winter playground, and there is no better way to explore it than on a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes.
From meticulously groomed tracks close to home to a world-class winter destination a short drive away, here is your essential guide to hitting the trails near Idaho Falls and Ammon.
1. Harriman State Park: The Winter Wonderland Retreat
If you are looking for a true Nordic skiing or snowshoeing experience, the short drive to Harriman State Park in Island Park is worth every minute. This premiere location, about an hour and a half from Idaho Falls, is a breathtaking refuge within a 16,000-acre wildlife preserve.
Why Harriman is a Must-Visit:
-
World-Class Grooming: The park maintains over 25 miles (40 km) of groomed trails for both classic (parallel track) and skate skiing. The trails wind through open meadows and quiet lodgepole pine forests.
-
Historic Scenery: You'll glide past the historic Harriman Ranch buildings, Silver Lake, and the Henry's Fork of the Snake River, all while keeping an eye out for wintering wildlife like Trumpeter Swans and elk.
-
Warming Huts: The trail system features two warming huts—the Jones House and the Becker Warming Hut—which are invaluable for a mid-ski break with a woodstove fire.
-
Trail Difficulty: Trails range from the flat, novice-friendly River Trail and Road Trail to more challenging intermediate loops. All winter trails are open to snowshoers, but be sure to stay off the set ski tracks!
💡 Travel Tip: Harriman is part of the Idaho State Park system and may require a day-use or Park N' Ski Pass. Check their website for the most current trail and condition reports before you go!
2. The Local's Favorite: Kelly Canyon Cross-Country Trails
For a closer option, head to the Kelly Canyon area, just 30 minutes east of Idaho Falls. While Kelly Canyon is famous for downhill skiing, the surrounding National Forest land is a hub for free, groomed Nordic trails, maintained by the U.S. Forest Service and local volunteers like the Idaho Falls Ski Club.
What You'll Find at Kelly Canyon:
-
Groomed Public Land: Trails are typically groomed for both classic and skate skiing, offering miles of undulating terrain with beautiful forest views. Access is generally from Forest Road 218 beyond the ski resort boundary.
-
Warming Huts: Similar to Harriman, this area features the Morgan Summit Hut (day-use only) and the Kelly Mountain Hut (available for day use and overnight rental), offering a chance to warm up by a wood stove.
-
Accessibility: There is a designated, free parking area below the main Kelly Canyon Ski Resort lot.
-
Snowshoeing: This area is excellent for snowshoeing, particularly on ungroomed side trails and loops.
3. Closer to Home: City Parks and Groomed Golf Courses
When you want a quick fix or the snow is perfect, check out the local efforts in Idaho Falls for groomed trails that are free and easily accessible.
-
Tautphaus Park/Pinecrest Golf Course: In past seasons, the City of Idaho Falls Parks Department has groomed loops in Tautphaus Park and at the Pinecrest Golf Course when conditions allow. These areas are fantastic for easy, beginner-friendly snowshoeing or a quick Nordic ski.
-
Idaho Falls Greenbelt: While not formally groomed for skiing, the flat, packed snow on the Snake River Greenbelt can be ideal for a brisk walk in snowshoes, offering picturesque views of the frozen river and the Idaho Falls Temple.
⚠️ Important Note: Grooming at city parks is entirely dependent on sufficient snowpack and weather conditions. Always check the Idaho Falls Parks & Recreation website for current trail status before loading up your gear!
Gear Up for Your Adventure!
Don't have the right gear? No problem!
-
Rentals: Local outdoor and sporting goods stores in Idaho Falls (like Idaho Mountain Trading) typically offer very affordable daily rentals for both cross-country skis and snowshoes.
-
What to Wear: Dress in layers! Synthetic or wool base layers are crucial. You'll work up a sweat quickly, but the air is cold. Don't forget a hat, gloves, water, and sunglasses (the sun reflecting off the snow is bright!).
