Project Name: Sheep Creek
Project Dates: May 3-7
Volunteers will get a chance to explore the Gospel Hump Wilderness on this jet boat supported backpacking project. The trip starts with a jet boat ride on the Salmon River from Vinegar Creek boat ramp to the mouth of Sheep Creek, tagging out with another ITA crew. The crew will backpack up the Sheep Creek drainage, working and bumping camp further into the wilderness. Picking up where the last crew left off, so exact location may vary, but we'll have an estimated 3 miles hike into the first camp. The crew will keep cutting out logs, cutting brush, and improving tread as needed as far up the Sheep Creek Trail as time allows before heading back to the river for a ride back to the boat ramp.
The Sheep Creek Trail follows along the creek, heading north into the heart of the Gospel Hump Wilderness. ITA has been working on trails in this drainage and to the west for many years now, last year heading up the hill toward Johnson Saddle. So, the first two miles have been regularly logged out over the years. Past this gets less maintenance, and lots of fun crosscut work is expected! Between both crews we expect to make a big impact on this trail!
More info (covering beyond the scope for this project) on this ITA Trail Spotlight.
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: Sheep Creek Trail #201
Itinerary: This is a five-day project. Meet at Vinegar Creek boat ramp early Sunday morning to meet the jet boat pilot. Jet boat to Sheep Creek, swapping out with the last crew. Backpack to camp up the Sheep Creek Trail. During the week continue trail work, bumping camp as appropriate. Wednesday hike back to the river for a morning pickup on Thursday.
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: Jen Elliott and Matt McDonagh
Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 1 hour from Riggins
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.
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