Middle Fork River Trail
Middle Fork River Trail

Middle Fork River Trail

Salmon-Challis National Forest
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Middle Fork River Trail

Middle Fork River Trail

Distance: 13.7mi
Elevation: 1,811ft
Time: 5.5-7.5h

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The Middle Fork River Trail is a beautiful adventure through the Salmon River Canyon near Stanley, Idaho. Hike amongst the towering bluffs of the Salmon River Mountains through pine stands, flowering meadows, and areas of fire scar.

Middle Fork River Trail Map

Getting there

The Middle Fork River Trail begins from the trailhead off Dagger Falls Mountain Road.

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About

Backcountry Campground

Dispersed Camping

When to do

May-September

Pets allowed

Yes - On Leash

Family friendly

Older Children only

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

Moderate

Route Type

One Way


Middle Fork River Trail
Elevation Graph


Middle Fork River Hike Description

Wonderful scenery and seclusion await you on the Middle Fork River Trail. Hiking this route makes for a pleasant experience, and as it is a point-to-point trail, you will be awarded new views and fresh settings every step of the way. As this is a one-way route, it is important to remember that you will need to arrange for pickup or leave a car parked at the trail’s end—the last thing you want to be doing after a tiring trek is scrambling to find a rind! Note also that much of the route is exposed, so it is wise to wear sun protection and bring plenty of water.

Your adventure along the Middle Fork River Trail begins from the Dagger Falls Campground. Here you will find a trailhead for the Middle Fork Trail; take this route over the footbridge to the east side of the river. Turn right at the junction, and the Middle Fork Trail will lead you southeastwardly along the riverside. Alternating between exposed meadows and shaded tree stands, you will be rewarded with pleasant views of the wild waterway below and the bounding ridges of the Salmon River Mountains. Winding through the canyon, the path will intersect with several seasonal streams. After some hiking, you will confront an intersection, keep left, and you will be diverted onto the Marsh Creek Trail.

Follow this route along the meandering creek, and you will eventually reach the trail’s end when you connect with the Lola Creek Road. Appreciate the feat you just accomplished, and go grab a refreshing drink in Stanley to celebrate.

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