Trail Overview
This short, unmarked out-and-back spur climbs into a densely wooded, lush evergreen forest that feels incredibly secluded. Starting from the main FS 37N55 road, the entrance can be a bit tricky to spot due to the complete lack of signage or trail markers. The journey begins with a relatively wide uphill climb, offering plenty of spacious turnouts for the first stretch. As you push further in, the forest canopy thickens, and the trail gradually narrows, immersing you deeper into the quiet woods. Although older maps might show this connecting through to Deadhorse Creek, there is currently no viable through-route because of an old washout where the road crosses North Fork Swift Creek. Ultimately, the drivable path tapers off entirely, concluding at a peaceful, primitive campsite complete with an old stone fire ring just before the washout. If the brush becomes too dense for your comfort, it is highly recommended to park at the last wide turnout and simply hike the remaining quarter-mile to the campsite to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Difficulty
Earning a mild Grade 2 difficulty rating, this is a tight, overgrown out-and-back dirt spur where the primary challenges are encroaching vegetation and tight squeezes rather than rough terrain. The dirt and gravel surface itself is relatively smooth and manageable, but you will need to navigate carefully between several large, fallen logs that have been bucked just wide enough for a single vehicle to barely squeeze through. Towards the end of the trail, the surrounding trees and brush crowd the path heavily. Proceeding all the way to the final campsite in a vehicle will absolutely result in enduring some inevitable scratches and pinstriping along the sides of your rig, so a slow, cautious approach is essential.
