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Patterson Creek Trail

Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
8.2 mi
Elevation Gain
1,800 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Excellent elk and mule deer habitat throughout the drainage
  • Patterson Creek with native trout populations
  • Remote canyon with virtually no other hikers mid-week
  • Old-growth juniper and ponderosa in the lower drainage
  • Fall hunting camp access; trail is heavily used in hunting season

Overview

Patterson Creek Trail runs through a remote drainage on the western slope of the Lost River Range in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, an 8.2-mile out-and-back that sees minimal hiker traffic but significant wildlife activity. Located east of Challis in Idaho's Custer County, this trail accesses prime elk and mule deer habitat in a canyon that transitions from juniper-dotted lower slopes to mixed conifer in the upper drainage.

This is a working landscape. The trail is used by hunters on horses and mules in fall, by anglers throughout the season, and occasionally by day hikers seeking the low-traffic experience that the Salmon-Challis specializes in. The remoteness here is uncurated: not marketed, not managed for recreation ambiance, just a trail into wild Idaho country.

The Route

Trailhead to Lower Canyon (0 to 2.0 miles)

The trail begins in open terrain with old-growth juniper on the rocky lower slopes. The vegetation is sparse but distinctive, with mountain mahogany and Idaho fescue covering the open slopes between junipers. Patterson Creek is accessible on the valley floor.

Middle Canyon (2.0 to 3.5 miles)

As the canyon narrows, ponderosa pine and Douglas fir appear and the forest character changes. The creek runs clearer in the upper drainage and the canyon walls rise more steeply. Elk sign is consistent through this stretch.

Upper Drainage (3.5 to 4.1 miles)

The maintained trail grades more steeply in the upper section before reaching a natural high point and turnaround at a broad bench. The terrain opens and views of the upper Lost River terrain appear above.

When to Hike

June through October covers the accessible season. Summer visits are quiet and wildlife is predictable in the early morning. Fall hunting season (mid-September through October) brings the most human activity to this drainage.

Orange clothing is strongly recommended during any fall visit from late September through October, when hunters are active in the drainage.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water with creek filtration as backup. No restroom is available on this trail. Hunting season awareness (dates and orange clothing) is important for fall visitors.

Trailhead Access

Patterson Creek Trailhead is on Patterson Creek Road east of Challis, accessed via Highway 75. The road is gravel and rough on the final miles. Four-wheel-drive or high clearance is recommended. No fee or permit is required (as of 2026). No restroom at trailhead.

Dogs are permitted.

Nearby

Patterson Creek is in the Challis area of the Salmon-Challis. Herd Lake Trail is in the same vicinity with a lake destination. Mount Borah Trail is 35 miles south via Mackay for those combining with a Borah attempt. Check current hunting season dates and road conditions with the USFS guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel pull-out at the Patterson Creek Trailhead off Patterson Creek Road east of Challis. Space for 8 to 10 vehicles. Four-wheel-drive or high clearance recommended on the final miles.

← Back to Salmon-Challis National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Patterson Creek Trail take?
The 8.2-mile round trip takes most hikers 3.5 to 5 hours. The moderate elevation gain is spread evenly across the full distance, making this a comfortable full-morning outing.
Is Patterson Creek Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome. The drainage is remote enough that leash requirements are rarely relevant, but keep dogs under control near the creek and be aware that this trail is used by horses and mules during hunting season.
Is hunting permitted along Patterson Creek Trail?
Yes. The Patterson Creek drainage is within the Salmon-Challis National Forest, which is open to hunting under applicable Idaho regulations. Hikers should wear orange during rifle seasons (typically October). Verify current season dates with Idaho Fish and Game (as of 2026).