Latah Trail | Moscow ID

Latah Trail – Moscow to Troy, Idaho

The Latah Trail stretches gracefully across the rolling hills of northern Idaho’s Palouse region, connecting the college town of Moscow with the quiet community of Troy. Spanning approximately 12 miles, this paved multi-use path follows the route of a former railway line, offering one of the region’s most scenic and accessible outdoor experiences.

Landscape and Setting

The trail begins on the eastern edge of Moscow, just past Mountain View Park, and winds its way through open farmland, gentle hills, and clusters of cottonwoods. The scenery shifts subtly with every mile-fields of wheat sway in the wind, red barns punctuate the landscape, and distant blue ridges rise toward the horizon. In early summer, the air carries the scent of wildflowers and freshly cut hay, while autumn brings golden light and the soft rustle of dry grasses.

Trail Experience

The Latah Trail is paved and well-maintained, making it ideal for cyclists, joggers, walkers, and families with strollers. Its gentle grade allows for a relaxed pace, and benches are placed at intervals for rest or quiet observation. Between Moscow and Troy, interpretive signs tell bits of local history and ecology, adding texture to the journey. On a clear day, the open sky feels endless, and the rhythmic sound of wheels or footsteps creates a meditative rhythm along the path.

Connections and Access

The western trailhead links easily to Moscow’s Paradise Path, creating a continuous greenway through town and connecting to the University of Idaho campus. This integration makes it simple for students and residents to step directly from urban sidewalks into the countryside. At the eastern end, the trail gently descends into the small town of Troy, where a covered pavilion, rest area, and café invite travelers to pause before making the return trip.

Wildlife and Nature

Wildlife sightings are common-deer grazing near tree lines, red-tailed hawks circling overhead, and quail darting across the path. In spring, the creeks and drainage ditches hum with frogs, while in winter, the snow-covered fields transform the trail into a serene white corridor popular for cross-country skiing. Native plants line the edges, offering a living tapestry that changes with the seasons.

Community and Culture

More than a recreation route, the Latah Trail has become a gathering space. Locals use it for charity runs, birdwatching walks, and weekend rides. Cyclists often stop at small fruit stands or local farms along the route, blending outdoor adventure with rural hospitality. It embodies the Palouse’s deep connection between land and lifestyle-where open spaces invite reflection and community thrives outdoors.

Closing Impression

The Latah Trail is both a journey and a respite-a place where Moscow’s lively college-town energy fades into quiet fields and simple rural beauty. Whether for a brisk morning ride or an unhurried sunset stroll, it captures the tranquil, open-hearted spirit of Idaho’s Palouse countryside.