Gibson Jack TH (015) to State Mtn Jct (018), ID

Warning
This area, while close to the City of Pocatello, is in rough country with steep terrain. Use appropriate caution.


Overview
The Gibson Peak 015 trail is one of the main access routes into the Gibson Jack area. It is used by hikers, bikers, and motorized recreationists during the summer and snowshoe-hikers during the winter.

Hike
This section of the trail is very straightforward. From the trailhead, you'll proceed along the only trail to a junction. The junction is with the 014 S. Fork Gibson Jack Trail, which branches to the right. Stay to the left, and the trail will contour around the north slope of Gibson Jack Creek. The effect of the slope is noticeable, with the north-facing slope having aspen, spruce, and fir (along with deer, moose, and other wildlife), while the south-facing slope you're walking on is classic western sagebrush steppe.

Eventually, the trail intersects Gibson Jack Creek. A wooden bridge exists here for you to linger at and enjoy before crossing. At this point, the trail gets steeper as you climb the south slope towards the ridgeline. Eventually, you will emerge from the forest back in the sage steppe at another trail junction, approximately 0.6 miles after leaving the parking area. The 015 Gibson Peak trail continues up the ridgeline to the west/southwest, and the 018 State Mountain Trail follows the ridgeline down and into the basin to your south.

Water Sources
Gibson Jack Creek is perennial, but you should plan on bringing all the water you need for this hike.

Camping
Not allowed, the Forest Service has designated this as a day-use area.

Note
The trailhead map incorrectly lists the distance to the junction of the 015 and 018 trails as 0.3 miles, be aware and plan for an additional 1/2 mile on a round trip hike starting from Gibson Jack.


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2021-08-20 PaleoRob