2023 Ditch Creek (Full)

Volunteer Trail Work Project

2023 Ditch Creek (Full)

Volunteer Trail Work Project

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In a backcountry adventure, this extended project (nine days!) will fly crews into the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness to work on a remote section of the Idaho Centennial Trail. Volunteers will fly into Shearer Backcountry Airstrip on the Selway River. From here, they will work the Ditch Creek trail, then midweek will hike up Ditch Creek to work on the Moose Ridge and Shearer Ridge Trails. 51 Ranch Outfitters will provide pack support to move gear up Ditch Creek after the crew clears the first 4-5 miles from Shearer up the trail. 

Trails:  Ditch Creek Trail #523, Moose Ridge #562, Searer Ridge #547 

Itinerary:  Fly out of McCall early Saturday morning. Saturday-Sunday or Monday, camp at Shearer for a day or two top open up Ditch Creek, then work with the outfitter/packer to move camp up the trail 4-5 miles. Depending on progress, there is potential for resupply or pack out.  Details on trail conditions will become available closer to the project date but flexibility is important for this project.  

Crew Leaders: Glenn Florence and Michelle Florence 

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: Flight from McCall 

GAIA Map:  Ditch Creek to Moose Ridge to Shearer to Ditch Creek  

Refundable deposit: $50 

Why do I need to pay a deposit? We’ve had trouble with people backing out of trips at the last minute which can really affect the productivity of the overall project. By charging a refundable fee, volunteers are less likely to cancel their reservation. Refunds will not be given to volunteers that do not show up or cancel their reservation. Exceptions will be made for medical reasons or unforeseen circumstances. Volunteers can choose to donate the deposit to ITA. All donations are tax-deductible and will go towards maintaining trails throughout Idaho. If you require assistance in paying for this fee, please contact us at trails@idahotrailsassociation.org and we will waive the cost. 

Difficulty Rating 

You should have experience with backpacking and be in good hiking condition with broken-in and tested gear.  This is a remote backcountry project so injuries such as sprains and blisters or even extreme fatigue from not being properly conditioned can quickly become a big safety issue.  If you are unsure about the proper gear or about preparing for a trip, please reach out to trails@idahotrailsassociation.org.  

Hike: 5/5 Very Strenuous
Ditch Creek gains 4,000 feet of elevation over 11 miles; depending on trail conditions, the crew could expect to clear this far. Lots of hiking carrying heavy packs and tools expected, with some pack support. See the linked map for the elevation profile.

Project Work: 5/5 Very Strenuous
With 6 full days of trail work (2 travel days, one rest day), this is an extended project to try to open a section of trail that hasn’t been worked in several years. Lots of saw work, brushing, and some tread work. Improving switchbacks and creek crossings when needed.

Volunteer Spots Available: 0 of 7
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

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