Hiking
Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of the Payette National Forest. Visit your local ranger district office to obtain a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time and interest. Please follow these safety tips to ensure a safe journey:
- Stay on marked trails.
- Don’t hike alone. Let the slowest person in your party set the pace. This is especially important when children are a part of your group.
- Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them upon your return.
- Develop an emergency plan before you start your trip. Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to "stop and blow" if they become lost.
- Take frequent rests or vary your pace to maintain your energy level.
- Drink plenty of water, even on cool, wet days. Never drink your entire supply between refills.
- Wear appropriate clothing, including sturdy boots that are broken in and are comfortable.
- Consider using a hiking pole or walking stick to help maintain your balance in unlevel or hazardous areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and pre-plan your approach before hiking through more hazardous areas.
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Bear Pete Trailhead
Bear Pete Trailhead is the northern access to Bear Pete Ridge Trail #142. The trailhead is located on the French Creek Road (FS-50251) just prior to where the road drops into the Salmon River…
Big Dave Creek Trailhead
Big Dave Creek Trailhead is in the Hazard Lakes Area on the New Meadows Ranger District, and provides access to the Lava Ridge National Recreation Trail #149.
Buckhorn Bar Campground
Site Closed
Located alongside the South Fork Salmon River, these 10 campsites include 4 walk-in, tent only sites. The walk-in sites are along the Sough Fork of the Salmon River, and 1 is a double unit, which…
Buckhorn Creek Trailhead
Access Buckhorn Creek Trailhead from the South Fork of the Salmon River Road (FS#674), and cross over the bridge. The trailhead is at elevation 3,882 feet. There is adequate parking for vehicles…
Burgdorf Guard Station Rental Cabin
Site Closed
The freshly renovated Burgdorf Cabin is situated in a small meadow at with a backdrop of mountains. The cabin is a short distance from Burgdorf Campground. A stream runs adjacent to the cabin and…
Cabin Creek Campground
Site Closed
Cabin Creek Campground, located the West Mountains along the Middle Fork of the Weiser River, is divided into two loops. The north loop contains 12 campsites. The south loop (opening by mid-July…
Camp Creek Campground
Site Closed
This small campground (4 sites) on the South Fork Road is a hub for the nearby network of trails. Explore these ruggedly beautiful mountains in almost any direction, or try your luck fishing in the…
Clayburn Saddle Trailhead
The Clayburn Saddle Trailhead is located at the end of the Goose Lake Road (FS 50257). This trailhead provides access to the Hard Butte area via Elk Lake Trail #347 (note that Elk Lake is on the…
Deep Creek Stairway Trailhead
Hiking trail only, crosses several metal staircases, located within Hells Canyon near Hells Canyon Dam.
Deseret Trailhead
Information will be updated soon