Project Name: Little Queens River
Project Dates: August 2-6
ITA volunteers will continue to chip away at clearing the Queens River loop as part of a long-term effort by the Forest Service, ITA, Selway-Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation and the Pulaski Users Group. Continuing our efforts over the last few years, we will start on the Little Queens River side, backpacking and moving camp up as we work up the trail. This beautiful loop, on the less traveled side, is a gem of the Sawtooth Wilderness. Large sections have been logged out in the last few years, but the 2013 fire through here means no shortage of trees continue to fall. Back-to-back ITA crews will clear logs and cut back brush where it obscures the trail.
Starting from the Queens River Trailhead near Atlanta, Idaho, we'll have pack support to haul tools and gear into our first camp, swapping out with the ITA crew hiking out! Trail conditions, and progress of the previous crew will dictate where we camp. The tentative camp is at the junction with Browns Lake, about 8.5 miles up the trail. Depending on the work we find out there, we may stay here for the duration or bump camp further up (no pack support for this part) once during the project. On the last day, we'll hike out and head home!
More info on All Trails (for the whole loop)
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: Little Queens River Trail #7454
Itinerary: This is a five-day project, beginning with being packed into camp Sunday morning. Welcome to car camp at the trailhead the evening before. Working Sunday – Wednesday maybe moving camp further up as work allows. Thursday, hiking back to the trailhead and heading home!
Food Provided by ITA: No – This project is eligible for backpacking food per diem. More information here
Gear Packing List: Gear Checklist for Backpacking Projects
Crew Leader: Mark Sugden and Terry Paterson
Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 3 hours from Idaho City
Trail Map: Click for trail map and elevation profile
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 reservations. 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.
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: 2
