2023 Six Lakes Basin

Volunteer Trail Work Project

2023 Six Lakes Basin

Volunteer Trail Work Project

Loading Events

In the rugged mountains south of the Seven Devils, volunteers will pack into a base camp in the Six Lakes Basin for a week of trail maintenance. We’ll work on trails from our camp which make up several loop options for backpackers to access the Hells Canyon Wilderness. Some of these trails have not seen maintenance for several years. 

Trail: Horse Pasture Trail #173, Six Lakes Basin Trail #218, Casey Mountain Trail #216 

Itinerary: Crew to meet at a dry camp near Smith Mountain off the Black Lake Road by Saturday night, if possible, for an early start Sunday clearing the trail and hiking into and set up a base camp at Six Lakes Basin, with packers to help carry the bulk of our gear. Monday-Friday trail work; return to base camp in the evenings. Volunteers can take a day off midweek to relax or explore. Saturday, packed back to the trailhead to head home. 

Crew Leaders: Barry Miller

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 2 hours form Council, Idaho; 4WD recommended after Smith Mt. Lookout 

GAIA Map:  Six Lakes Basin  

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  

Hike: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous
4.8 miles into camp with 1,300 feet elevation gain. A steady climb with some switchbacks up and over Joes Gap. See the linked map for the elevation profile of the hike in.   

Project Work: 4/5 Strenuous
Volunteers can pick trail duties based on comfort and ability level and are encouraged to work at their own pace. There are several trails we’ll be working on from our base camp, and hikes to the project site will get very steep in some sections. Deferred maintenance includes logging out, brushing, and drainage cleaning.

Volunteer Spots Available: 4 of 8
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

Go to Top