Middle Fork Trail of the Salmon River #4001

DATES: july 3-10

TRAILHEAD: Boundary Creek Campground

LOCATION: Middle Fork Trail #4001, Salmon-challis National forest, frank church-river of no return wilderness

BASECAMP: backcountry primitive, Approx. 5 miles to camp

RATING: Strenuous, self-supported backpacking trip

DESCRIPTION:

Volunteers will spend six days clearing and maintaining about eight miles of the upper section of the Middle Fork Trail #4001, the longest wilderness trail in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. The trail parallels the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, one of the eight originally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. This is a very popular destination for boaters and hikers, and you may see colorful fleets of rafts and kayaks floating the river below the trail. You will also have a chance to soak in two hot springs!

SBFC staff will lead volunteers into the wilderness from the Boundary Creek boat launch site and the Middle Fork Trailhead. Several forces of nature have made the Middle Fork Trail difficult for travelers in recent years. In August 2022, it was damaged in several places due to strong thunderstorms. There is also residual damage due to the severity of the 2021 Boundary Fire. The work will include improving sections of trail bisected by tributary streams, constructing new tread, building tread-bearing rock walls, and clearing drainages.

This is a strenuous backpacking trip. There will be no pack support provided. Individuals must carry their own personal gear and items (see packing list) and have significant backpacking experience. SBFC will provide a food per diem to reimburse volunteers for their meal costs.

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