Project Name: Middle Fork Payette
Project Dates: September 19-22
Starting at Boiling Springs, we'll backpack north along the Middle Fork of the Payette River. We will be working on immediate log out and drainage needs to help address the effects of the 2024 wildfires east of Cascade. This trail follows the river for 15 miles, ending at Clear Creek Summit and is enjoyed by hikers, backpackers, and hot springs enthusiasts. Quick action is needed to stabilize the trail and keep it open in the areas that burned, and annual maintenance and log out is needed in the areas that did not. ITA worked the first 3.75 miles of trail last year, and this crew will re-clear and push forward!
From the trailhead it is 3.75 miles into our planned base camp. There are eight creek crossings on the way, but all can be safely navigated, and we can hike in our creek crossing shoes for much of the way vs taking our boots on and off all day. There is a lovely open spot among big ponderosas just off the river for us to camp. Listen for elk calls bouncing off the canyon walls at night! From here, we'll continue to work north clearing, fixing tread, and brushing up as far as we can. On the last full day, we'll pack up early to camp at a well-established hot springs for the last evening together, before retuning to cars the next morning.
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: Middle Fork Payette River Trail #033
Itinerary: This is a four-day project. Welcome to camp at the trailhead the night before, for a morning start backpacking/working on Saturday. Working Saturday – Monday, and Tuesday 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: Taylor Mailly
Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 1 hour from Garden Valley
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 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
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: 10
