Boulder Meadows

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically open June 15 through October 15, weather permitting.

About

Boulder Meadows is a dispersed horse camp located at 4,000 feet elevation in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, specifically designed for equestrian use with hitching rails and ample space for horse trailers. The site functions as a major trailhead for an incredible network of long backcountry trails. Boulder Meadows Trail winds through the meadows for about a mile and connects with Kelly Pass Trail, which junctions with Timber Mountain Trail and Smythe Trail. From these trails, visitors can access Divide Lake, Timber Mountain, Star Mountain, Middle Mountain, Iron Mountain, Boulder Mountain, and Buck Mountain. The campground is primitive with vault toilets but no potable water, picnic tables, or trash receptacles. Visitors must pack in all supplies including water and pack out all trash. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with frequent sightings of moose, bears, elk, and deer, particularly along Smythe Trail which follows a commonly used wildlife corridor. The remote location offers spectacular views of Boulder Meadows, the Kootenai Valley, the Selkirk Mountains, and distant vistas into Montana and Canada from various trail vantage points. Access requires navigating a series of forest roads from Bonners Ferry, with the final approach on Boulder Creek Road leading directly to the meadows. The site operates seasonally and is best suited for experienced backcountry users comfortable with primitive conditions and self-sufficient camping.

Directions

From Bonners Ferry, take US 95 north for 2 miles, turn right on Ash Street, left on Cow Creek Road, left on Crossport Road, left on Katka Face Road to Road 314, right on Twenty Mile Road (FR 408), then left on Boulder Creek Road (FR 427) and continue to the meadows. Alternate route: From Bonners Ferry take US 95 south, left on Twenty Mile Road (FR 408), right on Boulder Creek Road (FR 427) to the meadows.

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