Length
Elevation Gain
Highest Point
Riding high above Hells Canyon and the Snake River this is truly rustic country. This National Recreation Trail traverses atop Summit Ridge, winding its way south to north through the Hells Canyon National Scenic Area. Some of this longer trail is through national wilderness land, and some of it is through unprotected national forest land.
Starting to hike from the Warnock Corrals trailhead is a good choice for several reasons. Primarily, this is the northernmost driving point for casual drivers. There are restrooms here, a decent amount of camping, fresh flowing water, other trails to hike and spectacular views.
From Warnock Corrals, walk the 4WD road past a spring on the left and through a signed gate announcing 4WD terrain. Shortly thereafter, a non-motorized trail forks off to the right. Follow this trail directly along the rim overlooking Temperance Creek. In a mile or more, this trail rejoins the 4WD track and continues northward along the ridge. At 3.3 miles, a signed fork goes off right onto a grassy Knoll. In 1941-42, a fire lookout camp existed here.
All along this route, you have the sense of being high and in the wilderness. There are numerous flowers as well as areas of recovering forest fire. There are trails (#1745 and #1745B) that appear on maps to create a loop to get back to Warnock Corral. As of August 2024 ,this connection was not feasible. Expect big skies, wildflowers and dry conditions.
Trailhead
