14 replies to this topic

[kmcintyre]

I'm not sure when you took those photo's, but that area is now a designated wilderness (about a month ago) and the picture with your mtn bike is now, not allowed.  Hopefully you went before the wilderness was declared (and if not) as that trail is closed to mtn bikes now.  I bet it was a hoot coming down (we were just there before the fires all started).

[Mic]

Nice photo's!!! I am headed over that way sometime next week...no place chosen yet...fires will dictate camping spots I guess!!! 

[ridenorcal]

It is true that portions of the White Clouds have been designated wilderness (as of beginning of August). The forest service in the area is still in "educational mode" and no signs or proper designations have been posted, but they are coming.

So next year you can still legally bring up to 20 pack animals down these small trails to graze and poop all they want - but if you have a 2 inch wide wheel (less wide than a hiking boot) that is human powered you'll get a ticket. Government land use polices... 

 

Mic - In terms of dispersed camping - there are just so many choices it's amazing. I camped up near Galena Pass, one night on Pole Creek and then did some camping down near Ketchum also. 

Coming from California it's just amazing to see all the options! That is one of the most beautiful parts of the county for sure. Have a great time!

[kmcintyre]

Just to let you know, I had a conversation with people in the "know" and signs are up now about mtn biking.  I agree that bikes do less damage than pack animals and I think that stems from the original wilderness bill and when it was enacted; there were no mtn bikes then so things could change.  Given how long it took to get the White Clouds Wilderness designation though, I doubt it'll change anytime soon.  The only advantage I see for pack animals is that they can carry equipment, supplies, etc. to maintain the trails, but they do a lot of damage (albeit not as much as motorcycles which couldn't go into the area already but they could skirt around it).

[jackattack]

It's too bad the White Clouds Wilderness land grab didn't get national attention until the 11th hour, especially with the National Monument designation hot on it's heels. I'm glad you got to experience it by bike before it got closed to access. Great pictures.