2026 Seven Devils – Horse Heaven (Full)

Remote Trails, Big Views: Volunteer in the Seven Devils Mountains

July 19 - July 25

2026 Seven Devils – Horse Heaven (Full)

Remote Trails, Big Views: Volunteer in the Seven Devils Mountains

July 19 - July 25
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Project Name: Seven Devils – Horse Heaven

Project Dates: July 19-25

Horse Heaven sits at 8200' in elevation, high between the northern and southern Seven Devils Mountains, with stunning views of each. Here on the grassy hill is where we'll base camp for a week of trail work. From camp, the crew will head south to clear towards Ruth Lake. This trip will offer big views of the Seven Devils, Hells Canyon, and Rapid River drainage with its rugged, steep terrain. 

It's a long hike to get here, but we will have pack support to bring in most of our gear, carrying only day packs and some tools. Steep climbs are rewarded with panoramic views, and we might even see a few mountain goats! ITA has worked in the Seven Devils for many years, but this remote section gets less love than other places. ITA has two weeklong projects this year to focus on the southern side, and these trails are just as stunning as those on the iconic Seven Devils Loop trail!  

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: Black Lake-Horse Heaven Trail #214, Carbonate Hill Trail # 189  

Itinerary: This is a Sunday-Saturday weeklong project. Meeting at the Trailhead Saturday night for an early pack in on Sunday. Sunday– hike/pack into the base camp. Work clearing trail Monday-Friday. On Saturday, pack stock returns to bring gear back to the trailhead by midafternoon; camp over night at the trailhead or head home.  

Food Provided by ITA: No  

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

Crew Leader: Alex Cravener and Chris Keilty   

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: About 1.5 hours from Riggins 

Trail Map: Click for trail map and elevation profile for Windy Saddle to Horse Heaven and from Horse Heaven to Ruth Lake  

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.  

Hike: 5/5 Very Strenuous – Windy Saddle Trailhead to Horse Heaven is about 12.5 miles, with 2500-3000 feet of gain and loss. The first 10 miles is relatively easy hiking, with a steeper last two miles as the trail switchbacks up to Horse HeavenSee the linked map for the elevation profile. 

Project Work: 4/5 Strenuous – Lots of trees and brush expected for repeated saw work. Some heavy lifting or digging. All trail work will be a short but potentially steep hike from camp, as the trails all drop in elevation after Horse Heaven. Working up to 3.5 miles away from base camp.  

Volunteer Spots Available: 0 of 8
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

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