The Big Jacks Creek Wilderness, in the Big Jacks Creek Basin, consists of rugged canyons, streams and plateaus that provide habitat for redband trout, mountain quail and bighorn sheep, as well as two sensitive plant species. The basin ranges in elevation from 2,808 to 5,872 feet and drains a sagebrush-covered plateau dissected by rugged, sheer-walled canyons that are as much as 650 feet deep. Big Jacks Creek flows north into the Bruneau River, a tributary of the Snake River.
The basin is covered by big sagebrush, low sagebrush, salt desert shrub, and riparian vegetation communities. The sagebrush communities are most common; low sagebrush types are found primarily on shallow, poorly drained soil, and big sagebrush types are associated with deep, well-drained soils. The big sagebrush community is dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush and bluebunch wheatgrass, and the low sagebrush community is dominated by black sagebrush, low sagebrush, Thurber needlegrass, Idaho fescue, and bluebunch wheatgrass. The salt desert shrub type grows on poorly developed soils in northern part of the basin and consists of shadescale, bud sagebrush, and Indian ricegrass. Thick riparian vegetation grows along perennial reaches of the creek and generally includes shrubs of willow, dogwood, rose, and currant as well as sedge and bluegrass in meadow areas.
Two hiking trails give access to the Wilderness: the 3-mile round-trip Big Jack Creek Trail and the 2.5-mile round-trip Parker Trail.
Leave No Trace
How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Big Jacks Creek Wilderness.
The Big Jacks Creek Wilderness is located 70 miles southeast of Boise, Idaho.
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 - Public law 111-11 (3/30/2009) An act to designate certain land as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System, to authorize certain programs and activities in the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture, and for other purposes.
Visitors should take proper precautions when visiting this harsh, remote environment. Cell phone coverage is unlikely. There are no recreation facilities and limited signage. Recreationists are encouraged to explore off the beaten path and camping is allowed in non-designated areas on BLM land.
Excellent opportunities to hike, fish, photography, view nature, star gazing, hunt big and small game, backpacking, ride horses, and/or disperse camp.
Climate and Special Equipment Needs
Best times to visit are spring and fall months for consistent weather. Roads to access wilderness area may become impassable during winter. Remember to bring lots of water regardless of season as there is little shade in the desert environment.
Safety and Current Conditions
To ensure a safe trip, visitors should arrive prepared with proper equipment, maps, compasses, clothing, and knowledge of the general area and weather conditions.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.