“I remember a hundred lovely lakes and recall the fragrant breath of pine and fir and cedar and poplar trees. The trail has strung upon it, as upon a thread of silk, opalescent dawns and saffron sunsets.”

— Hamlin Garland (1860-1940)

On a long and beautiful drive around Boundary County last week, I was in awe of the outdoor recreational opportunities. Rafters and kayakers, bicyclists, fishermen, hikers, and horseback riders seemed almost everywhere.

Everyone, it seems, has a favorite activity in the out-of-doors or some special place where they would like to spend all their days. For some, rivers are like Mother Earth herself beckoning. Whether it is a kayak or raft ride on the Kootenai River or Moyie River, or fishing the quiet eddies, they just can’t seem to get enough of the flowing water.

Others seek serenity and a chance to leave the hurry-skurry of civilization behind. Still others mix favorite activities with the outdoors, enhancing both experiences. They hike for the sheer joy of it, ride horses or bicycle in beautiful places around Boundary County.

But recreational time is scant during the short summer months. I have to choose my activities carefully, knowing full well that to choose one pursuit is to forego another.

That is why high mountain lakes are often at the end of my trail. I am drawn to them like a child to a cookie jar. I am especially enthralled with lakes shoved up tight in a circular basin with cliffs, bushes and boulders all around. Forced to choose between all the possible outdoor pursuits, I gravitate simply to mountain lakes. On foot, or by Jeep when I can.

For some, one lake is the same as another. Not to me. Each is a gem with a character all its own. Often a character discovered only after spending several hours on its shores and getting there early to photograph its still waters. While I have my favorites, I have never found a lake I couldn’t embrace. All symbolize a peace and serenity found nowhere else.

Three of my favorites are Spruce Lake, Copper and Queen Lake in the Purcell Mountains. Standing on their shores, it is indeed the color of the gem, sapphire. Idaho may be called the Gem State because of an abundance of precious stones. But more than 50 mountain lakes sparkle in Boundary County’s high country — granite jewelry studded with gems of another kind far more beautiful than precious stones.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks. Hikers battle bug bites, blisters and bruises for the sake of overcoming a challenge and enjoying some quality time with nature.

I will not see all of the Alpine Lakes in Boundary County, but I am looking forward to seeing every lake I can this summer. Alpine lake hiking has a limited season. July and August are the go-to months, and they provide the bonus of huckleberry picking if you can find a patch.

Enjoy Boundary County’s outdoor recreation and all its beautiful mountain lakes.