2026 Running Creek – Crib Walls

Selway Pack In: Building Stronger Trails at Running Creek

June 21 - June 27

2026 Running Creek – Crib Walls

Selway Pack In: Building Stronger Trails at Running Creek

June 21 - June 27
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Project Name: Selway River – Running Creek 

Project Dates: June 21-27 

Nestled along the Selway Wild and Scenic River, we will get our gear packed 7 miles into a base camp near Running Creek. We'll camp here for the week in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness. Working with Forest Service staff, the crew will help build crib/support walls where the trail tread is failing. This is an important main line trail for hikers, backpackers, boaters, and stock to access the pristine Selway Bitterroot Wilderness, and this work will make it safer for all users. In a lovely flat shaded area, right next to a pack bridge spanning Running Creek (a great place to sit and contemplate life in the evenings), this is a beautiful spot to camp for a week!  

What is a crib wall? Basically, a support or retaining wall that helps hold up the trail, typically made from rock or wood. You've probably hiked over these important structures without noticing them!  

More info about the Selway River Trail in this ITA trail spotlight, written by one a past crew leader! 

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: Selway River Trail #4 

Itinerary: This is a Sunday-Saturday weeklong project. Volunteers are encouraged to camp at the trailhead the evening before. Meet at Paradise Campground on Sunday morning and get packed in and set up camp. Work Monday-Friday, rest day as needed. On Saturday morning, pack and clean up camp and packer returns to bring our gear back to the trailhead. Departing Paradise Campground late afternoon or camping at paradise and heading home Sunday!  

Food Provided by ITA: No  

Gear Packing List: Gear Checklist for Backpacking Projects with Pack Support 

Crew Leader: Alisa Rettschlag and Gregg Rettschlag 

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: Approximately 3 hours from Darby, Montana  

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 

Hike: 2/5 Moderate  Gentle hike following the river with some slight elevation gain and loss. 7 miles one way into the camp location. A Forest Service packer will bring our gear in and out, allowing volunteers to hike with just some tools and light daypacks. See the linked map for the elevation profile. 

Project Work: 4/5 Very Strenuous – Moving and setting rock, digging out big sections of tread. If time allows, brushing along the trail.  

Volunteer Spots: 8

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