Description: This 18 mile single track mainline trail parallels the Little Fork of the Clearwater River from Adair Creek to Foehl Creek. It is used for fishing and hunting access by hikers and pack stock. One can also access the Mallard Larkins Pioneer area from Trail 50. The trail was originally built from 1924 to 1932 for pack trains to the Little North Fork country on what was then the Roundtop Ranger District.
Compared to other trails in the region, Trail 50 receives moderate use, especially within the first 4 miles of the trailhead. With nearly every catch being sizeable native trout, this trail is most popular with anglers looking to test their fly-fishing prowess. And those coming prepared to camp will be delighted by the options along the river. Clearings within towering ancient cedars groves, flat benches above the river, small depressions in stream-side meadows and the ever popular site beside the fishing hole where one can seemingly cast from beside their morning fire tantalize those who dream of backcountry fishing expeditions.
With seven trails accessing the river at different locations, visitors can choose their favorite way to descend to the best fishing in the forest. For those who prefer to go hookless into the forest, Trail 50 also ranks as one of the highest recommended in the region due to its remoteness, fantastic beauty, diversity, gentle grade, swimming holes and access to other trails.
Directions:
• Approximate travel time from Avery to the Trail 50 Little North Fork of the Clearwater Trailhead is 1 hour.
• From Avery drive downriver on the Old River Road 218 for 2.1 miles to Road 301 at the mouth of Fishhook Creek.
• Turn left on Road 301 and drive south for 14.0 miles to Road 1268.
• Turn left on Road 1268 and drive south for 6.5 miles to Road 1268C.
• Turn left on Road 1268C and drive east 1.2 mile to the Trail 50 Little North Fork of the Clearwater Trailhead.
Directions
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 0° 0′ 0.0000″ S
Longitude 0° 0′ 0.0000″ W