Explore the Latah Trail
What is the Latah Trail?
The Latah Trail is a paved trail built along the historic Moscow-Arrow railroad corridor. It is a 10-foot-wide paved trail that runs east from Moscow, Idaho, to Troy, Idaho, beside Idaho State Highway 8 and continues into Bear Creek Canyon.
In Moscow, the Latah Trail connects with Paradise Path, which links with the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, which runs west from Moscow to Pullman, Washington.
The Latah Trail Foundation maintains, improves, and, when possible, expands the trail. Its mission is to preserve the historic corridor for non-motorized recreation and transportation while connecting local communities.
What activities can you do on the Latah Trail?
Biking, jogging, skating and walking can be enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall, and even winter, weather permitting. Cross-country skiing is also available in the winter. You can even take a unicycle on it according to AllTrails reviewer Raul Garcia. Dogs are allowed on the trail on leash. Dog owners should be prepared to clean up after their pets.
Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes are allowed on the Latah Trail. However, only class 1 e-bikes are allowed on the Bill Chipman Trail. Please note that e-bike rules may change, and can vary across the trail systems. Please be sure to verify guidelines for each trail.
There are several picnic sites, restrooms, and bike air stations along the trail. Bear-proof trash containers are also located in the Bear Creek Canyon area.
How long is the Latah Trail?
The actual Latah Trail runs between Moscow and Troy and is approximately 11 miles long.
The paved trail continues down Bear Creek Canyon east of Troy towards Kendrick for approximately 4 miles.
Paradise Path connects the Latah and Bill Chipman Trails and runs 2.2 miles through Moscow.
The Bill Chipman Trail runs west from Moscow for 7 miles to Pullman, Washington.
Where can you access the Latah Trail?
There are multiple places to access the Latah Trail in both Moscow and Troy. The most popular access points in Moscow are near the University of Idaho, at the Paradise Path connection, or at the intersection of Highway 8 and Mountain View Road.
There are also a few access points with small parking lots between Moscow and Troy along Highway 8. Follow posted signs and avoid blocking private property or access roads.
The Troy City Park is the best access point in Troy. This location includes restrooms and a parking lot with marked spots.
If you just want to do the Bear Creek Canyon portion of the trail you can access it near the Troy water treatment plant just east of Troy. Parking is limited, and the access includes a short unpaved road. Follow posted signs and do not block service access.
When is the best time of year to visit the Latah Trail?
The Latah Trail is open and enjoyable year-round from dawn to dusk.
The wheat fields of the Palouse are wonderful throughout spring, summer, and fall.
Bear Creek Canyon offers cooler conditions during the hot summer months and plenty of bright foliage during the fall.
Winter access depends on snowfall, ice, and current trail conditions. Check recent conditions before visiting and avoid walking or snowshoeing in established cross-country ski tracks.
More information about the Latah Trail
More information on the Latah Trail can be found on AllTrails, Latah Trail Foundation , Visit Idaho, City of Moscow, and TrailLink.