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The Nation’s First National Forest: Shoshone National Forest, WY (Backpacking Trip)

August 3, 2025 @ 5:00 pm - August 9, 2025 @ 8:00 am

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Join this Backpacking Trip in the Nation’s First National Forest! (Planning and Logistics done by AHS and the Forest Service)

Join the Shoshone National Forest’s Trails program for an exciting backcountry experience on the Deer Creek trail! The Deer Creek trail is a challenging twelve mile trail with stunning views of the Washakie Wilderness as it travels up through the Deer Creek drainage. The Deer Creek trail is a popular hiking/pack and saddle trail that leads into the most remote wilderness area in the lower 48.

The project work will take place approximately 10 miles in from the trailhead and will consist of widening tread, installation of log retaining structures and drains in narrow/steep sections of the trail. The crew will be packed into a primitive backcountry camp and will travel on-foot daily to the work site.

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

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Host

Private: Shoshone National Forest North Zone

Accommodations

Primitive Tent Sites

Hiking/Access

Volunteers will be backpack into a primitive backcountry camp approximately 10 miles in from the trailhead. All tools will be brought in by the host staff, so volunteers just need to carry personal gear to basecamp. From the camp, volunteers will hike their tools and day packs approximately 1-2 miles up trail to the project work site each day. The Deer Creek trail is narrow with exposed cliff edges and uneven steep terrain. The overall elevation gain for the deer creek trail is 3,500 ft.

Project Rating

Strenuous

Minimum Volunteer Age

16

Maximum Group Size

10

Area and Attractions

The Shoshone is the Nation's first National Forest and is located on the border of Yellowstone National Park. The Shoshone National Forest offers unparalleled wildlife viewing, from the highest concentration of elk in the lower 48, to grizzly bears and moose. A backcountry trip in the Shoshone is sure to be exciting! Volunteers can spend a few extra days exploring Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Highway, or stay in Cody and check out the nightly Rodeo. There is no shortage of sites to see and things to do in the Cody area.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will camp in a remote, backcountry campsite. Volunteers need to bring their own backpacking tent and personal camping gear; sleeping bags and pads; and personal cup, bowl, mug, and eating utensils.

Travel

Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming is the closest major airport. Airport pick up and drop off is available for volunteers and will be arranged upon confirmation of the trip.

Location

Shoshone National Forest North Zone
204 A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414 United States + Google Map