Join a group of easy-level hikers for this picturesque 4.3-mile, 187 elevation change loop hike around Sage Hen Reservoir (elevation ~5,000 feet, 232 acres) in Gem and Valley Counties. You'll walk over the dam and around the reservoir through the dense forest, seeing the 5 campgrounds and 2 boat ramps.
OPTIONAL: The hike may also be extended by completing the short 0.7 mile, 139 ft elevation change Sage Hen Nature Trail hike located northeast of the reservoir. This shady loop travels up to two impressive waterfalls on Sage Hen Creek before it enters Sage Hen Reservoir. There are benches, bridges, and plenty of great views. You’ll pass through strands of Englemann spruce, grand fir, and lodgepole pine during this loop.
CARPOOL: Let's meet at Winco-Eagle at 9 am to carpool and go over directions.
BRING:
- Sack lunch
- Sturdy shoes (possible mud/water during one log crossing)
- Hiking poles
- Layers
- Water
- Whistle
DIRECTIONS (likely 100 minutes from Eagle):
- From Boise, Idaho, travel north on State Highway 55 to Horseshoe Bend, Idaho.
- At Horseshoe Bend, turn west and travel State Highway 52 for 9 miles to the junction with the Sweet/Ola Highway. Then turn north and travel 16 miles to Ola, Idaho.
Transition to Forest Roads:
- From Ola, continue 10 miles northeast on Forest Service (FS) Road 618, then 7 miles on FS Road 626.
- Lastly, travel approximately 2 miles northeast on FS Road 614 and you will arrive at Sage Hen Reservoir.
- Sage Hen Dam Picnic Area (Limited parking) is on the southwest side of the reservoir. Vault toilet available at this location. More at the campgrounds during our hike.
