The Idaho Conservation League's annual Central Idaho Summer Hike Series will kick off this weekend in the Wood River Valley with hikes planned for the Sawtooth, Boulder, White Cloud, Pioneer and Smoky mountain ranges.
The ICL will offer its first hike on Saturday, July 17, on the Burnt Aspen Trail in the Pioneer Mountains. The hike starts at Kane Creek and will cross over to Wild Horse Creek. A car shuttle is required. The hike is eight miles with a 1,300-foot elevation gain and is moderate to difficult.
"The hiking series is free and open to nonmembers," said Brett Stevenson, ICL's central Idaho associate. "This year we have a hike in every mountain range."
Stevenson said the ICL would like interested hikers to call its Ketchum office to make a reservation because space is limited. Hiking with the ICL is an opportunity to meet new people and share knowledge about trails, hikes and the region.
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"Experts often come on our hikes," Stevenson said. "We will talk about [the proposed CIEDRA wilderness bill] during our hikes in the Boulders and White Clouds."
In addition, the health benefits of hiking are very good, said Stevenson, because it's physically low impact and hikers don't need much. Hikers should be in good physical condition and be prepared for all types of weather with rain gear, a warm layer and gloves. In addition, hikers should bring lunch, extra water, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat. Some hikes require four-ply or better tires for backcountry roads. No dogs are allowed.
To make a reservation, call 726-7485.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
Hike schedule
· Saturday, July 17
Burnt Aspen Trail
· Wednesday, July 28
Apollo Creek Loop
· Wednesday, Aug. 4
Cabin Creek Lakes
· Saturday, Aug. 7
Thunder/Lightning Lake
· Saturday, Aug. 14
Chamberlain Basin
· Saturday, Aug. 28
Amber Lakes
The Idaho Conservation League Central Idaho Summer Hike Series will offer hikes to the surrounding mountain ranges of the Wood River Valley.
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