Beginning at Forest Road 37 (Access #1), the Lower South Fork Trail gradually descends along the river, crossing several small creeks. The first bridge you come to is over Nicolas Creek and a large dispersed site can been seen from the trail at this point. Continuing down, the trail passes through thick evergreen forest where many sugar pines can be seen. This can make the South Fork Trail a wonderfully pleasant place on a hot summer afternoon.

Areas of vine maple and alder make use of the sunlight that streams from small openings in the forest canopy. At the confluence of the South Fork and Imnaha Creek there is a nice over look and the South Fork Dam can be seen. At this point the trail turns abruptly east and follows Imnaha Creek to the trailhead.

NOTE: There is a cattle gate about mid way, and bikes must be lifted over. Please use caution in this area.

Directions: From Butte Falls: Access #1: From Butte Falls, travel east for 1 mile to the Prospect-Butte Falls Hwy. County Road 992). Turn left and proceed (north) 8.5 miles to Forest Service Road # 34 (Lodgepole Road). Turn right and continue 8.1 miles to the signed parking area on the right, located approximately þ mile after crossing the lower bridge. The trailhead for this section of trail is on the north side of road # 37. Access #2: Just past the parking area listed in Access #1, turn left (north) on Forest Road #3775. Drive approximately 1" miles to a parking area on the left and a sign for the Giant Sugar Pine. A short trail takes off on the west side of the road (left). The South Fork Trail meets with this spur in less than þ mile. Access #3: Follow same directions as for Access #2, but continue on Forest Road # 3775 for approximately 6 miles total. Spur Road # 3775-690 will be on the left just before

Seasonal Access: Normally Accessible: April-October

Facility Type: Trail