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In a recent issue of Sunset Magazine, Southwest Idaho was identified as having some of the West's best and least crowded biking trails. While one could certainly consider the entire Heartland to be a biking paradise, Cascade in particular offers up some spectacular opportunities.
Crown Point Trail
Trail length: 2.4 miles.
Difficulty: Easy and handicapped accessible.
Access: Turn off Hwy 55 on the Lake Way Road (north Cascade) and follow .5 mile to Crown Point parking area. Park car and ride to trailhead next to Crown Point Camping Area. Description: Crown Point Trail is located along Cascade Lake. This picturesque 2.6-mile stretch of land is easy access to all ages of hikers and bicycle riders. Originally a railroad bed dating back to the first days of Cascade and surrounding towns. Crown Point Trail is comprised mainly of level sandy sediment that is very stable. No motorized vehicles are allowed. Several spots along the way provide easy access to the sandy beaches along the shores of the lake for fishing, picnicking or sunning. Families love this shoreline trail that offers great views of Lake Cascade and West Mountain.
Eagle Nest Trail
Trail length: 14 miles.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. ATV and equestrian use.
Access to Southern Trailhead: Turn right onto FH 22 (Warm Lake Hwy) from Hwy 55 (0.5 miles north of Cascade) and travel approx. 2.5 miles to weigh station where southern trailhead begins. Access to Northern Trailhead: Turn right onto FH 22 (Warm Lake Hwy) from Hwy 55 (0.5 miles north of Cascade) and travel approx. 11.5 miles to a marked FSR 411-A. Take this road for 5 miles until it junctions with FSR 497, turn left and travel for 1.8 miles until you reach signed trailhead indicating Crawford GS 14 miles. Description: Although there has been logging activity and a fire on sections of this trail, it is still relatively easy to follow. It becomes difficult in at least two sections where the trail is easy to lose due to grassy areas with little to no trees, but as long as you keep Horsethief Reservoir and the Cascade Valley to your left (east) and stay on top of the ridge, you'll be fine. There are four areas that require water crossing which might make bike and horse travel difficult.
Snowbank Mountain/ Radar Station
Description: West of Cascade, the radar station sits atop the mountain from which you can enjoy spectacular views of Long Valley and the surrounding mountains, as well as many lakes and mountain meadows. The site is accessed by a well-maintained road and is well worth the drive.
For information about more area trails such as Tyndall and Yellow Jacket, please contact the Cascade Ranger District at (208) 382-7400.