Project Name: Loon Creek 

Project Dates: April 26 – May 2 

Deep in the heart of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, volunteers will spend a week brushing and clearing the trail along Loon Creek. This trail is an important access point to the Wilderness for boaters, backpackers, backcountry pilots, and hot springs enthusiasts exploring the Middle Fork and an important connecting trail for hunters and outfitters. 

Starting at Lower Loon airstrip along the Middle Fork Salmon River, we'll camp near the river for a night or two before potentially bumping camp further in, brushing and clearing up as far as we can over the week. The trail follows the creek through the lush drainage; brushing and rock removal is the priority. As time allows, we can work on the Middle Fork East Trail doing treadwork and log out as well. 

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: Loon Creek Trail #4101 

Itinerary: This is a Sunday-Saturday weeklong project. Sunday morning, fly out of Cascade. Work all week, bumping camp along as needed. By Friday afternoon, return to camp near the airstrip (or hot springs?) for Saturday morning pickup and flight back. 

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: Alisa Rettschlag and Gregg Rettschlag  

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: Flying out of Cascade 

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.  

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