Southern Sawtooth Valley, Idaho
Better trails through connections.
Developing a proposal for a modest set of trail connections in the southern Sawtooth Valley — reopening abandoned trails and adding select new single-track to link existing routes into loops for hikers and mountain bikers.
Read the concept Common questionsAt a glance
We are private citizens seeking a public-private partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to plan, build, and maintain a modest set of trail connections — in a way that is consistent with the Sawtooth National Recreation Area's charter, supportive of both the local community and visitors, environmentally sensitive, and harmonious with the existing character of the valley.
Nearly all of the proposed work follows existing alignments — trails and roads that were part of the valley's network 20–30 years ago. Everything stays within a few miles of Highway 75, avoids Wilderness entirely, and keeps trail traffic away from private property and established communities.
What this is — and what it isn't
Early word of this concept traveled faster than the details did, so it's worth being precise about the concept's actual scope.
What this is
- A small set of connector trails — mostly reopening trails that already existed — linking today's routes into moderate loops
- Located within a few miles of Highway 75, in areas already served by roads and trails
- Foot and bike use only, including quiet pedal-assist e-bikes — no motorcycles, ATVs, or other motorized vehicles
- Routed to avoid private property and communities entirely
- An early-stage concept we hope to develop in partnership with the USFS, open to public input
What this isn't
- Not a large-scale, purpose-built trail complex. This is not a Galena-style stacked-loop system — no trail hub, no destination facility
- Not in or near Smiley Creek's neighborhoods. No trails through the community, and no trails or trail access on Smiley Creek Road below the Smiley Creek cutoff — the stretch that serves the neighborhood
- Quiet by design — primarily non-motorized trails
- Not new inroads into remote backcountry — and no Wilderness involvement whatsoever
Guiding principles
Reopen before we build
The valley once had considerably more trails. Wherever possible we follow those existing alignments rather than cutting new ground.
Minimal footprint
Trails stay close to Highway 75 and existing roads, sharing bridges and water crossings to limit impact in riparian areas.
Respect for neighbors
Trail routes and access points avoid private property and established communities entirely.
Partnership with the USFS
We seek a public-private partnership to plan, build, and maintain these trails through the Forest Service's established processes.
Have thoughts? We want to hear them.
This concept is at an early stage, and community input will shape it. Whether you're a full-time resident, property owner, or visitor, we'd like to hear from you.
Get involved