North Fork Smith River 3 day BCST – Central Coast

This project will require strong hiking abilities, and will include completing work while moving an overnight pack. Please consider your personal fitness level before signing up. If you have any questions, or are unsure if this the right trip for you, please reach out!

Project Information:

We will spend three days (two nights) brushing and fixing the tread (surface of the trail) along this 8 mile trail. Day 1 we will start at Kentucky Falls and work as we go cutting heavy brush and fixing tread. We will hike up to 3 miles to our first camp spot. Day 2 we will continue moving down trail, brushing and working on tread, focusing on a major landslide. We will hike up to 2.5 miles to our second camp. Day 3 we will continue our brushing and tread wokr and hike the last 3 miles to the trailhead.

Hiking information:

We will hike from the Kentucky Falls Trailhead down river to the North Fork Smith Trailhead. This trail is 8.5 miles in total with up to 800 feet of elevation change, mostly downhill desecent. We will hike 3 miles the first day, 2.5 miles on day 2 and just under 3 miles on day 3. The trail is a moderate descent at the start and then meanders through creek drainages,with a strenuous uphill ascent before camp 2. We will stop frequently to cut brush and fix tread. There is some shade on the trail, and moving a pack along as you work can be quite strenuous.

You should plan to participate in this trail party for its entirety. For safety reasons, please do not arrive late or expect to be able to leave early.

Camping Details:

This is a self-supported trip! Please make sure to bring adequate food and water filtration, as well as tent, sleeping bag, and any other equipment you may need for 2 nights in the backcountry. If you need to borrow some gear (sleeping bag, water filter, backpack, etc) please let me know asap! noelle.windesheim@trailkeepersoforegon.org