2025 Cottonwood Creek (Full)

Trail Work Weekend: Big Views and Camping Above Boise

August 23 - August 24

2025 Cottonwood Creek (Full)

Trail Work Weekend: Big Views and Camping Above Boise

August 23 - August 24
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Project Name: Cottonwood Creek 

Dates: August 23-24 

Found through a submission to the ITA Trail Reporter, this project will have a crew camping outside Idaho City working on the Cottonwood Creek Trail which runs from Bald Mountain to Arrowrock Reservoir. A conservation corps crew focused on the south four miles last summer and this year, ITA is coming in to work on the north half, removing logs and cutting back the stubborn brush blocking the trail in sections. A rare non-motorized gem in the Boise National Forest, this is an easy to access trail for those looking for a quick backpacking overnight or a day hike. The Cottonwood Creek Trail can be combined with Forest Service Road 203 to make a 16-mile loop for those looking to get in more miles.  

Camping high on the ridge near Bald Mountain Campground and Thorn Creek Lookout, this location promises panoramic views and a new moon that weekend could mean exceptional stargazing, weather permitting!  

More info on All Trails  

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: Cottonwood Creek #189 

Itinerary: This is a weekend project. Crew can meet at camp on Friday evening, work all day Saturday and a half day Sunday.  

Food Provided by ITA: No  

Crew Leader: Art Troutner  

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 50 minutes from Idaho City 

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. 

Difficulty Rating 

Hike: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous The trail drops steadily downhill as it follows the creek, so the hike back to cars at the end of the day will be uphill, with no switchbacks. Potential for some creek crossings, depending on how far down we get. Carrying day packs and tools. See the linked map for the elevation profile. 

Project Work: 2/5 Moderate Brushing, some log out. Tread/drainage work if needed. Volunteers can pick trail duties based on comfort and ability level and are encouraged to work at their own pace

Volunteer Spots Available: 0 of 12
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

Waitlist Signups: 0

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