A Big Frenchy Pete

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Allowed

This is a large mostly singletrack loop in the McCall area that will take you from the trees down to the sagebrush slopes along the Salmon River. This can be accomplished in one day or two days depending on fitness level.

Extremely remote with no help along the route or cell service. You should carry a personal locator beacon of some sort.

The ride begins on the the French Creek Trail with a descent along the creek from near Upper Payette Lake all the way to the French Creek Rd., which climbs up from the Salmon River. The trail takes you from the trees down into the sagebrush. The lower portion leaves forest service lands and crosses state lands, so the maintenance is not as good on the lower portions. The lower portion has thinning tree cover so it may not be advisable to ride the entire trail on hot days. The lower portion also burned in 2015 so be aware of down trees.

The trail stays near the creek as it descends and it a great descent over its entire length. There are ample places to stop and take in the scenery and enjoy the twisty and fun nature of this trail.

Once at the end of the trail you'll turn onto the French Creek Rd. which will switchback up and into the trees. There are many switchbacks and the road is narrow, so please stay to the side. From the French Creek Rd. you'll turn onto the Bear Pete Ridge Trail.

The Bear Pete Ridge Trail begins off French Creek Rd. with some moderate climbing before leveling out. From this point, the trail has mostly reasonable grades and some large meadows. You'll ride through Frosty Meadows and then come upon Josephine Lake there is a short spur that will take you out to Bear Pete Mountain if you want to bag a peak. At the end of the trail, there will be a short road section before a final descend to French Creek.

This is a big, remote ride. There is no help along the way and no cell service at all. If you make it to French Creek Rd and need to bail you can ride into Burgdorf and take the road back to where you started.