Payne Creek Trail

Route Description for Payne Creek Trail

Lace up your hiking boots and head out into the Lost Creek Wilderness along the Payne Creek Trail. This exciting excursion can be completed as a lengthy day hike or an epic backpacking expedition. Note that this trail requires a self-issued permit. These permits can be found at the trailhead and must be kept with you for the entirety of your journey. To get the best out of this experience, make sure you have sturdy hiking boots and wear layers as the weather will change as you trek the undulating path.

When you are packed up and ready to roll, take the trail signposted for Brookside McCurdy Trail. Hike this route through the meadowlands and enjoy the expansive vistas. You will encounter a junction. Here, stay left on the Brookside McCurdy Trail. This path will guide you across Payne Creek and through an aspen grove. This section of the path is steep as you ascend an old logging road. The route will then descend into a drainage and an open meadow. You will shortly meet your turnaround point when Craig Creek and Payne Creek intersect.

At this point, there are plenty of dispersed campsites for those who wish to stay overnight and continue their journey in the morning. If you are ready to return, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.