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An epic river to ridge loop.


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Map Key

27.4

Miles

44.2

KM

95%

Singletrack

7,862' 2,396 m

High

5,274' 1,607 m

Low

3,374' 1,028 m

Up

3,375' 1,029 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

23%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

The pass is snowbound until July and trees are usually cut out by mid-July.

Overview

The Lime creek loop connects two drainages using a ridge trail to make a large loop. It is a very epic ride and you'll see very few people, so come prepared.

Lots of great scenery along the ride - keep an eye out for wildlife as they are usually all around you on this ride.

Need to Know

This is a remote backcountry ride - you must be self-sufficient.

Description

From the trailhead you'll descend a little ways on Hunter Creek Connector, a doubletrack trail, towards the South Fork of Lime Creek. Then you'll cross a sometimes deep water crossing and continue up the drainage. Then you'll have a short and intense climb to the top of a small ridge followed by a quick decent into the Middle Fork Drainage. A beaver has been at work in the creek bottom and this has made the crossing fairly deep in spots so take your time on the crossing.

Once across the creek you'll turn right onto the Middle Fork Lime Creek Trail, The trail climbs gently and stays next to the creek as you climb. There will be a couple of short lung busters thrown in to keep you on your toes. You'll make one final creek crossing before the trail pitches up very steeply. In this section you'll be pushing your bike. If you got in over your head this is an excellent place to turn around. Settle in for some hike-a-bike as you climb to the ridge. There are a couple of false summits so don't get your hopes up too soon. You'll be at the top once you hit the Blue Ridge Trail.

From here you'll take a left on the Blue Ridge Trail and begin a short descent before climbing another ridge. After you reach the ridge you'll contour along the ridge and head towards the North Fork of Lime Creek. Do not be tempted by the shortcut known as the Presidents Trail. You'll burn a ton more energy on the Presidents Trail since it is constant up and down. The ridge will start to descend and you'll need to keep your eyes out for the left turn for the North Fork Lime Creek Trail.

Once on the North Fork of Lime Creek, you'll begin a long descent. The grades are fairly gradual the whole way down Lime Creek. The trail is narrow and tight in many place so make sure you are focused as you descend since you can pick up speed fast. There will be a number of water crossings along the way along with some short up and down climbs that will keep you alert. With the rocks and narrow tread width, you are really working the whole way down the North Fork. Near the end, the trail will mellow out and then bend around and connect with the Middle Fork. From here you have a short hike-a-bike over the small ridge before descending into the South Fork Drainage. Once in the South Fork Drainage you'll have a short climb back to the trailhead.

Contacts

Shared By:

Chris Cook

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 2 votes

#3445

Overall
  3.5 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#124

in Idaho

#3,445

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Photos

Ridge riding in the Smokey Mountains
Sep 8, 2014 near Fairfield, ID
Tuxedo in Lime Creek
May 15, 2015 near Fairfield, ID
Lime Creek
May 15, 2015 near Fairfield, ID
Riding the Lime Creek Trail
May 15, 2015 near Fairfield, ID
Looking down into the North Fork
May 15, 2015 near Fairfield, ID

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