2024 Hells Half Acre

Volunteer Trail Work Project

2024 Hells Half Acre

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Project Description:

ITA and the Selway-Bitterroot Franck Church Foundation are partnering for a multiday project based out of Hells Half Acre Mountain (elevation 8110’) and working down into the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. We’ll work on the Grass Ridge Trail as it switchbacks down, following the ridge ending at the Upper Selway River.

Each day, we’ll return to camp after work where we’ll have 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains in Idaho and Montana while we enjoy meals together, prepared by a fantastic volunteer camp cook. One evening we’ll be joined by Bitterroot National Forest archaeologist for a discussion about the Nez Perce Trail and other history of this area.

Hells Half Acre Lookout is one of the few drivable lookouts in Idaho, and a cool destination for those who like to enjoy the views of high mountain ridges without having to hike thousands of feet up! These trails are popular with hikers, hunters, backpackers, and car campers looking to explore.

Project information is subject to change. Crew leaders will communicate via email. Failure to respond to your crew leader may result in being dropped from the project. See our FAQs, reach out to your crew leader, or contact ITA staff at trails@idahotrailsassociation.org if you have questions.

Trails: Grass Ridge Trail #65

Itinerary: This is a four-day project. We’ll be working starting Thursday morning through Sunday midday. Late arrivals may be accommodated with advance notice. Email alex@idahotrailsassociaiton.org

Food Provided by ITA: Yes

Crew Leader: Alex Cravener

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 2 hours from Darby, Montana

Trail Map: Click for trail map and elevation profile

Refundable deposit: $25

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.

Hike: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous- The first three miles loses 1,000 feet of elevation, before steeply descending to the river.  Should project work get too far or steep each day, we can switch to a different trail. See the linked map for the elevation profile.

Project Work: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous- Mostly bushing and logout, infrequent digging or swinging tools. Bending or kneeling for light saw work or brushing. Carrying day packs and trail tools.

Volunteer Spots Available: 5 of 12
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

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