2026 Soldier Lakes Basin

Lake Basins & Big Peaks: Trail Work in the Frank Church

August 28 - August 30

2026 Soldier Lakes Basin

Lake Basins & Big Peaks: Trail Work in the Frank Church

August 28 - August 30
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Project Name: Soldier Lakes Basin

Project Dates: August 28-30

Volunteers will meet for a long weekend project on the Salmon-Challis National Forest and work on trails in the stunning Soldier Lake Basin. This remote glacial alpine basin, tucked into a corner of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, features high-elevation lakes, glacial moraines, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The area is home to elk, deer, and mountain goats, making this one of the most scenic project settings of the season.

We'll car camp together at Josephus Lake Campground and our work will focus on logging out and brushing, with tread work as needed to keep these trails open and accessible for hikers, anglers, and backcountry users.

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: TBD –– We are currently coordinating with other groups working in the basin to determine the best trail focus for this project. Trail details will be confirmed and communicated by your crew leader before the trip.

Itinerary: This is a three-day project. Meeting at Thursday evening, two full days of work Friday and Saturday. Sunday, wrapping up work and heading home.  

Food Provided by ITA: No — this project is eligible for a food per diem reimbursement. More information here

Gear Packing List: Gear Checklist for Car Camping, Bring Your Own Food   

Crew Leader:  Clay Jacobson

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 1 hour and 45 Minutes form Stanley, High-clearance vehicles recommended.

Trail Map: Click for trail map and elevation profile

Refundable deposit: $25 

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 

Hike: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous – TBD, but estimated about 3.5 miles and 1,000 feet of elevation gain.  A steady climb with some descent, carrying day packs and tools. See the linked map for the elevation profile.

Project Rating: 3/5 Moderately Strenuous – Log out and brushing with tread work as needed. Expect repeated saw work, swinging tools, digging, and carrying day packs and tools to the work site each day.

Volunteer Spots Available: 10 of 10
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!

Waitlist Signups: 0

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