Project Name: Middle Fork Salmon – Spring
Project Dates: April 8-15
The Wild and Scenic Middle Fork of the Salmon River is an iconic Idaho river for good reason. Part of the Idaho Centennial Trail, backpackers, hot spring enthusiasts, equestrians, and boaters all use this trail to access this incredible part of the Frank Church Wilderness. Volunteers will spend eight days immersed in this beautiful area!
After a scenic backcountry flight into Indian Creek airstrip, we'll camp a few days nearby to work on some heavier trail rebuilds near Pungo Creek, alongside Forest Service personnel. After this project, we'll pack up and move camp east and work our way to the Thomas Creek airstrip. We'll address tread, logout, and brushing needs, bumping camp along as we go. We'll have raft support to help bring our gear down over the week, so hiking with just our day packs and tools! This fly-in project will give ITA volunteers unique access to the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and its tributaries!
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 Trail #001
Itinerary: This is an eight-day Wednesday to Wednesday project. Flying out of McCall early the first Wednesday to Indian Creek airstrip. Working and bumping camp along the Middle Fork to Thomas Creek the last Wednesday morning, flying out from here back to civilization!
Food Provided by ITA: No – This project is eligible for backpacking food per diem. More information here
Gear Packing List: Crew leader will share more information on weight or bulk restrictions for the flights/raft support closer to the project. Gear Checklist for Backpacking Projects with Pack Support
Crew Leader: Glenn Florence and Michelle Florence
Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: Flying from McCall
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 8
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!
Waitlist Signups: 3
