Stinking Springs to Wolverine Creek Route

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

A great loop that incorporates a varied mix of singletrack and doubletrack as riders climb away from the river to reach an alpine forest above. The trails will take you through large aspen stands, mixed conifer, and various riparian areas. There are also some great views from high up and also on the return along the Snake River.

Some of these routes utilize a shared use trail system with ATV's and foot traffic. Most of the better riding is can be found mid-week to minimize the competing traffic, aside from the occasional cow. There are plenty of options for side routes, so pick and choose as you see fit. There are some grinding uphills, along with some long and flowing downhill runs. Come prepared and bring a good supply of water.

From the Stinking Springs Canyon Trailhead, head up Sidewinder toward the radio towers. The enjoyable singletrack isn't overly steep and the trail is well maintained, but do remember to pace yourself as there's still a lot of riding left to do. Keep pedaling past the upper Sidewinder sign to quickly reach the upper half of the Stinking Spring Canyon ATV Trail.

This tidy doubletrack serves up some of the steepest climbs of the ride as it switchbacks up the ridge to connect to Leaning Fir #169. Turn right and follow the trail due east for a short distance until a left turn at the next intersection. Ahead is Crystal Cruise, which is actually a nordic trail along the perimeter of the Kelly Canyon Ski Area. Pretty soon the trail ends at Table Rock Canyon Road.

Follow the road to the right for less than half a mile where the Hawley Gulch Spur climbs away to the left to rendezvous with Hawley Gulch Lower. This multi-use trail features one steep section before the grade levels out. If it's recently rained this is one of the last trails in the area that will dry out.

From the intersection by the meadow, turn right to climb Lookout Mountain Trail #131. The wide ATV trail features two steeper sections before it levels off to head past the top of Lookout Mountain to a particularly good lookout Enjoy the views of the Snake River and nearby towering cliffs. From there, you'll backtrack a little way to take a right onto Cold Springs #855 road. Keep right at the next intersection to follow Trail #292 through the trees to Wolverine Creek Trail #082.

Wolverine Creek Trail is a series of mixed-use trails through Kelly Canyon. The doubletrack is narrow and you may find some motorized company. You'll also find banked corners and lots of ATV speed bumps for an amusing ride. It's also mostly all downhill till you reach the river below, so get ready to enjoy a few miles of rolling descents.

At the bottom, turn right on Burns Creek Road to parallel the river for a little over seven miles to get back to the trailhead. Chances are you can find a good spot to soak your feet and cool off somewhere along the way on a hot summer day.