Friday, July 5, 2013

New trail christened at Baker Lake

Osberg Ridgeline Trail connects to Warm Springs area

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By EXPRESS STAFF

    The Baker Lake Trailhead northeast of Ketchum gives recreationists access to serene views of  crystal-blue alpine lakes and stunning vistas of the Boulder Mountains. Now, hikers have more options of off this versatile trailhead.
    On June 22 and 23, the Idaho Trails Association worked to complete an extension of the Osberg Ridge trail system. Hikers can now begin at the Baker Lake Trailhead and trek into Ketchum via the newly completed Osberg/Warm Springs Ridgeline Trail. Association volunteers constructed a brand-new trail under the guidance of U.S. Forest Service Recreational Forester Renee Catherin.
    The trail is named after Gloria Moore Osberg, a longtime trails advocate known for her hiking book called “Day Hiking Near Sun Valley.” The trail runs 10 miles along the ridge between Fox Peak and the Baker Lake trailhead, connecting the Warm Springs drainage and the south side of the Baker Creek drainage.
    The Idaho Trails Association was founded in 2010 with the central goal of promoting the continued enjoyment of Idaho’s hiking trails. Maintaining heavily used trails is one way the organization meets its goal. Budget cuts and sequestration have forced cuts in the Forest Service budget.
    “Volunteer groups like the ITA are critical partners for the Forest Service,” Catherin said. “Slashed budgets on the federal level have resulted in a reduction of trail work on the ground level.
    “The Forest Service is so appreciative of the hard work of ITA’s volunteers. Without their dedication, the completion of these trail projects would be difficult, if not impossible, to complete.”
    To reach the trailhead from Ketchum, follow state Highway 75 north for 15 miles and turn left onto Baker Creek Road. Baker Creek Road ends at seven miles at the Baker Lake Trailhead.

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