Hornaday Pass (Elkford)

Site Description: The well-defined, 4.5 km trail to Hornaday Pass climbs gradually up Norboe Creek, through a mixed forest of Douglas-fir, lodgepole pine, whitebark fir, and trembling aspen. In many places it crosses fine talus slopes and avalanche chutes, which can hold snow into the early summer. Recreationists should be aware of the potential for avalanches at almost anytime of year. At the pass there is a small cabin and a rustic campsite for the use of hikers and horseback riders. The pass is a good place for viewing goats and big horn sheep. Bear sightings are not unusual, so be prepared. From the pass, skilled route finders can follow an indistinct and intermittent trail north up Brule Creek. Follow the obvious route, and you will soon come upon a well-defined trail, which continues east down Brule Creek to the Elk River valley. This section of the trail is about 9.5 km long.

Driving Directions: Access: Commencing at Fort Steele Historic Park, proceed north on Hwy 93/95 for 300 metres. Turn right onto the Wardner-Ft. Steele Road. Follow this road for 22 km to the Power Plant Road. Turn left onto this road and follow it over the bridge on the Bull River Canyon. On the east side of the canyon, you will find yourself at the 22 km road marker on the Bull River Forest Service Road. Turn left and continue following the Bull River FSR to Norboe Creek, between the 74 km and 75 km road markers. There is a Recreation Site on the south side of Norboe Creek. The Hornaday Pass Trail starts 70 m north of the Norboe Creek bridge. Park at the trail head sign, or the recreation site.