Colgate Licks

Colgate Licks is named for George Colegate (yes, the spelling is inconsistent). He was the cook for the ill-fated Carlin Party—a group of young men who came to Idaho to camp and hunt in September 1893.

The group wanted to retrace the Lewis and Clark route but due to weather found themselves on the Lochsa River. They hired a guide from Spokane, and their cook was George Colegate, a settler from Kendrick, Idaho who was a bit older and not in good health. Colegate became ill, and was eventually abandoned by his companions when supplies ran low. His body would not be found until August 1804.

The 1.25-mile trail takes you to the actual, natural mineral licks that present important minerals to the wildlife that frequent the area. The best times to visit this trail are March through October and importantly, the trail is available only to hikers—no motorized vehicles or bicycles are allowed in order to ensure a tranquil and peaceful environment for the visitors’ enjoyment. As you walk along the trail, you’ll pass by cedar snags, charred from fires that swept the area decades ago. You will also experience open meadows with the view of the Lochsa River and Bear Mountain that make up this distinctive ecosystem. Along the trail, there are also several informative signs that complement this nature experience with a bit of education.