2023 Swet Cabin

Volunteer Trail Work Project

2023 Swet Cabin

Volunteer Trail Work Project

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For those looking for a remote wilderness experience, this project will take volunteers high into the mountains above the Salmon River to spend a week in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. This is a fully supported trip and we’ll have pack stock to assist bringing in gear and food. The crew will base near Swet Cabin where an ITA volunteer chef will prepare all meals. The project will work on clearing the Harrington Ridge Trail down to Dennis Creek and the Dennis Ridge Trail. Lots of crosscut work is expected. Last year the crew cut out 428 trees!   

Trails: Dennis Creek Trail #29, Mt. Harrington Trail #9 

Itinerary: Starting from Base Camp Trailhead, hike to camp.  Monday – Friday, work up the Dennis Creek Trails and Mt. Harrington Trails with a day off mid-week to relax/explore. Saturday, packer returns to bring the crew back to the trailhead. It’s a long drive in so be prepared to camp for a night or two on the way in or out if needed!  

Crew Leaders: Michelle Florence and Glenn Florence 

More Information:  SBFC Trip Report 

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town:  Approx three hours form Darby, Montana  

GAIA Map:  Shoup- Elk City Trail   

Non-refundable trail project fee: $50 

Why do I need to pay a fee to volunteer for this trip? The fees collected will help to cover the costs of providing food and other expenses related to planning a multi-day project in the backcountry. 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 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. 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 some 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: 4/5 Strenuous
10.5 miles into camp with some challenging elevation gain (about 2,000 feet). Volunteers will have to carry some personal gear and tools. Generally suitable for experienced and well-prepared hikers. Hikes to the project work will get long each day as the crew cuts out further from camp. See the linked map for the elevation profile.

Project Work: 4/5 Strenuous
Consistent and repetitive saw work expected, with some brushing and tread work. Volunteers are encouraged to work at their own pace. 

Volunteer Spots Available: 3 of 10
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

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