Sign of the Times: New Trail Signs Enhance Wagonhammer Adventures in Idaho

Sign of the Times: New Trail Signs Enhance Wagonhammer Adventures in Idaho

Tucked into the rugged beauty of Central Idaho’s Lemhi Valley, the Wagonhammer Trail System has long been a hidden gem for mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders, and trail runners. Just 20 miles north of Salmon, this expansive network of trails winds through the Salmon-Challis National Forest, offering everything from challenging descents to mellow loops, all with jaw-dropping views and a wild, open feel that captures the heart of Idaho’s public lands.

This spring, Mountain West Recreation Alliance joined forces with the Salmon-Challis National Forest and Salmon Valley Stewardship to make this beloved trail system even better—by installing new trail signs throughout the Wagonhammer area.

Why Signs Matter

If you’ve ever ridden or hiked Wagonhammer, you know that the terrain can be vast and varied. With more than 50 miles of singletrack weaving through gulches, ridgelines, and forests, navigation isn’t always straightforward—especially when snowmelt reshapes routes and signage is scarce. Thanks to this collaboration, that’s changing.

Together, our teams installed durable, easy-to-read trail markers at key junctions and trailheads, improving safety, wayfinding, and overall experience for trail users. Whether you're tackling the Carl Gulch shuttle descent or exploring the scenic Elk Trail Loop, these signs help ensure you stay on track and spend less time scratching your head—and more time enjoying the ride.

A Trail System for Everyone

The Wagonhammer system spans elevations from 3,650 to 5,200 feet, offering early spring riding in the lower zones and big alpine adventure later in the summer. Highlights include:

  • Elk Trail Loop – A 9-mile intermediate singletrack with wide-open views and just the right amount of challenge.

  • Burns Gulch Loop – An 8.2-mile route with rolling terrain and scenic ridgelines.

  • Carl Gulch & Trail Gulch Shuttles – High-adrenaline, high-descent rides from Stein Mountain, open once the snow clears in mid-July.

This is a shared-use system, so trail etiquette is key. That includes yielding to horseback riders, packing out trash, and always closing gates during the livestock grazing season (June 1–Sept 1).

A Model for Public Land Stewardship

This signage project reflects the power of partnership. The Forest Service brought trail expertise and logistical support, Salmon Valley Stewardship coordinated on-the-ground efforts with local knowledge, and Mountain West Recreation Alliance helped plan, and implement the vision—all with the goal of making Idaho’s trails more accessible and sustainable.

As a nonprofit committed to protecting and promoting responsible recreation on 80” trails and beyond, we’re proud to support projects like this that balance use with stewardship. Trail signs might seem like a small detail, but they represent something much bigger: a shared commitment to preserving access, safety, and enjoyment for everyone who calls these public lands home.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're a local looking for a weekend escape or traveling through Salmon Country, Wagonhammer is well worth a stop. Grab a map from Lost Trails: Wagonhammer or check out trail conditions on Trailforks. And if you need a place to crash, Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground offers convenient lodging right at the trailhead.

With the new signage in place, now’s the perfect time to discover—or rediscover—one of Idaho’s most dynamic trail systems.

 

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