A volunteer crew learns trail work skillsAfter a long winter and unusually cold, spring weather in Idaho, mountain hiking trails are starting to open up. Weather takes it’s toll on Idaho’s trails, with downed trees, run off, and other factors. In some cases we’re talking about many years worth of weather since the last time many of our trails were maintained.

Want to know what can be done about the laundry list of trail problems?  You can join ITA for one of our trail work parties, which are spread out across the state this summer.

On National Trails Day (June 4), 21 volunteers turned out to help maintain a trail in the Big Jacks Creek Wilderness south of Boise.  This important work was recognized by the Idaho Statesman.  Read Pete Zimowsky’s article, Work on wilderness trail will make hikers happy.

Our next volunteer trail work party is July 15-17.  Volunteers will work to clear trees and brush on approximately five miles of Kennally Creek Trail #101, just southeast of McCall.

Soon thereafter, work will continue on the new Wewukiye (Wa-woo-kia) Trail near Warm Lake. When completed, the 17 mile trail will connect Warm Lake, Tule Lake, Stolle Meadows, a Chinook salmon viewing platform, a historic cabin, and Vulcan Hot Springs.  This project is our signature project, taking place July 22-30.  Volunteers may join us for all or a portion of the project dates.

Other trail parties are also scheduled.

For more information or to sign up, please contact Joe Pickett by e-mail at jpickett@thesca.org, or by phone at (208) 369-3782 between the hours of 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Friday. You can also read answers to frequently asked questions.