South Fork Loop

A mellow run through the Idlewild trail system with lots of options for additional mileage and exploring. You'll cross beautiful mountain streams in multiple spots.

New bridges in 2015 make stream crossings a lot easier. Pine needle covered trails make for soft running.

From the trailhead, you'll go through a gate letting you know you are entering private property where access is granted to the Ridge Trail. Follow the Ridge Trail until you exit the private property and come to the Idlewild trail system which contains lots of different options.

Take the trail up through the forest which goes up over the top and then drops down to a couple small river crossings. Parallel the river until it crosses back on a long, low bridge with fabulous views of the Indian Peaks.

Heading back uphill along a wider path, you'll leave the river basin. Once you reach the turn off for Ditch Trail turn right and follow that back around to Ridge Trail where you'll re-enter private property and head back to the trailhead.

Lots of beetle kill pines through here with the occasional fallen tree across the trails.