Project Name: Upper Little Pistol Creek
Project Dates: August 16-22
Starting from Pistol Lake Trailhead, we'll meet with our packers and load up gear on horses and mules to make the short but steep hike up and over the ridge into Pistol Lake. We'll set up a base camp here working down Pistol Creek as far as we can over the week. If we cover a lot of miles, we have the option to backpack further in to set up a spike camp closer to the work. On the last day, packers will return and pick up the crew wherever we are camping to bring gear back to the trailhead!
ITA has been alternating working from the top and bottom of the Pistol Creek and Little Pistol Creek Trails over the last few years, cutting out giant logs, brushing and repairing tread. The Forest Service and the Selway Bitterroot- Frank Church Foundation have also spent significant time focused here. These trails are used by hunters, boaters, horse packers, and backpackers wanting to explore the Frank Church- River of No Return Wilderness.
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: Little Pistol Creek Trail #229
Itinerary: This is a Sunday-Saturday weeklong project. Sunday– hike/pack into the base camp, starting work if time allows the first day. Work clearing trail Monday-Friday. Saturday, pack stock returns to bring gear back to the trailhead and head home.
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 with Pack Support
Crew Leader: Cindy Walker and John McCarthy
Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 2 hours form Cascade
Trail Map: Click for trail map and elevation profile of the hike to Pistol Lake and the hike down Pistol Creek Trail
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.
Volunteer Spots Available: 0 of 10
If there are no volunteer spots available, click “Sign Up” to get on our waitlist for this project!
Waitlist Signups: 2
