Trail Creek, located in the picturesque city of Sun Valley, Idaho, is a privately owned structure that plays a vital role in water resource management.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1937, this Timber Crib dam stands at a height of 22.9 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 66.5 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 1060 cubic feet per second, Trail Creek ensures the efficient regulation of water flow from the Big Wood River.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Trail Creek remains a crucial component of Idaho's water infrastructure, with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam serves multiple purposes, including water storage and flood control, and its associated structures contribute to the efficient management of the surrounding drainage area of 62.8 square miles. As a key feature in the region's water management system, Trail Creek is a prime example of the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
385 |
Dam Height |
22.9 |
River Or Stream |
TRAIL CREEK BIG WOOD RIVER |
Surface Area |
6.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
62.8 |
Nid Storage |
66.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Boundary
|
||
Murdock
|
||
Murdock Campground
|
||
Wood River campground
|
||
Caribou
|
||
Federal Gulch Campground
|
Headwaters To Sawtooth Nf Boundary
Headwaters To Confluence With Corral Creek
West Fork Big Wood River To Confluence With Big Wood River
Headwaters To Confluence With Button Creek
Headwaters To Point Where Creek Turns Ne, Near Trail Creek Summit
Headwaters To Confluence With North Fork Big Wood River