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Big Lost River Access Trail

Mackay, Idaho · Custer County · Facility

This 2.5 - 3 mile trail has been a community effort. Please respect the adjacent private property by staying on the trail and using non-motorized means to get to the river. For motorized recreationists, the old road from here up Blaze Canyon to the Windy Devil communication tower is a designated off-highway vehicle (OH…

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43.91472, -113.63722
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About Big Lost River Access Trail

This 2.5 - 3 mile trail has been a community effort. Please respect the adjacent private property by staying on the trail and using non-motorized means to get to the river. For motorized recreationists, the old road from here up Blaze Canyon to the Windy Devil communication tower is a designated off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail. There is typically cell service at this site.

How to Get There

Approximately 1 mile northwest of Mackay, Idaho along the Big Lost River. Turn west off of Hwy. 93 onto Main St. in Mackay. Continue south; Main Street turns into Smelter Road and crosses the Big Lost River (there is a signed IDF&G public river access on the southeast side of the bridge). Proceed approximately 1 mile, cross the cattleguard and turn right. Follow this road approximately 2 miles to the signed day use parking area for the Big Lost River Access Trail, located on the north side of the road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Big Lost River Access Trail

Heading to Big Lost River Access Trail? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Big Lost River Access Trail?

No central reservation system listed for Big Lost River Access Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255250) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Big Lost River Access Trail?

Approximately 1 mile northwest of Mackay, Idaho along the Big Lost River. Turn west off of Hwy. 93 onto Main St. in Mackay. Continue south; Main Street turns into Smelter Road and crosses the Big Lost River (there is a signed IDF&G public river access on the southeast side of the bridge). Proceed approximately 1 mile, cross the cattleguard and turn right. Follow this road approximately 2 miles to …

How do I contact Big Lost River Access Trail?

You can reach the park at phone: 208-879-6200 or email: BLM_ID_ChallisOffice@blm.gov.