Packsaddle Trail #26

Description: This 3.5-mile single-track National Recreation Trail originates in the St. Joe River corridor at the Packsaddle Campground. It ascends the rugged terrain of the bottom 1 ½ miles in nearly 25 tiring switchbacks (total of over 40 switchbacks on the entire trail) before mellowing out on the ridge that separates Packsaddle Creek and Skookum Creek. The south-facing slope just below the junction with Trail 186 is dry and shrubby, making it a likely spot to find ungulates in the winter and antlers in the spring. This trail is primarily used by hikers and pack stock. There is water for stock, 2 campsites and toilets available at the bottom at Packsaddle Campground. Watch for two old graves near the Trailhead. Users can combine Trail 186 Nelson Ridge and Trail 26 Packsaddle into a 14-mile day loop experience. Water is available on Trail 186 approximately 1/3 mile west of Trail 26.

Directions:

• Approximate driving time from Avery to the Trail 26 Pack Saddle Trailhead at Pack Saddle Campground is 6 minutes.

• From Avery drive upriver on Forest Highway 50 for 4.5 miles to the Trail 26 Pack Saddle Trailhead at Pack Saddle Campground.