Places to Explore

The Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust owns 5 properties that are managed for wildlife habitat, open space, and recreational opportunities.

Everyone is welcome to explore these beautiful open landscapes and connect with nature.

Please note that our Fee-Title Preserves are subject to seasonal closures. These closures ensure the safety of our community members, and provide refuge to wildlife during critical stages of development and survival.

If you choose to recreate on our public access preserves, please note that the Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust is not liable for any accidents or injuries incurred. We encourage everyone to recreate responsibly, exercise caution, and understand the inherent risks that come with recreating in the landscapes of our region. Leave no trace outdoor ethics apply. No fires or explosives are permitted. Motorized access restrictions apply.

Please report emergencies to the appropriate agency (Fire Department, Police Department, etc.) Concerns or questions should be directed to the Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust directly.

CENTURY HEIGHTS (FT-05) and century heights north (ft-07)

Donated in 2018, and supported by the local chapter of the Mule Deer Foundation, the Century Heights preserve encompasses 166 acres of sagebrush steppe in Bannock County, Idaho. Century Heights North was donated in 2023 and encompasses 99.5 acres.

Conservation values include:

• Suitable winter range habitat for mule deer because of south and west-facing slopes that experience early snowmelt and have juniper and ravines for thermal cover
• Suitable habitat for several species of greatest conservation need; including the western toad, sage thrasher, hoary bat, little brown myotis, silver-haired bat, Townsend’s big-eared bat and wester small-footed myotis
• Habitat for mule deer, coyotes, bull snakes, rattlesnakes, and transient moose
• Scenic views within the city limits of Pocatello

The preserve is open to non-motorized public access April through October. Popular recreational activities include, bird watching, photography, mountain biking, and hiking.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4fLsdjVxEgm6D4W99

Parking: Gravel lot located straight up the dirt road on the right (see below). Look for the green kiosk sign. 

Below is a map of existing trails: 

KACKLEY SPRINGS (FT-01)

Purchased in 2006, the Kackley Springs preserve encompasses 162 acres of sagebrush steppe, emergent wetland, riparian, and riverine habitat in Caribou County, Idaho.

Conservation values include:

• Habitat supports a range of wildlife, including waterfowl, neotropical migrant birds, raptors, some upland game birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish
• Habitat and passage for migration and spawning of the Bonneville cutthroat trout, a species of special concern in Idaho

The preserve is open to non-motorized public access year-round. Popular recreational activities include bird watching, exploring a creek restoration project, picnicking, and fishing and hunting – subject to all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tHKAkhTAgCmxMonk8

Parking: Gravel parking lot will be straight up the dirt road and on you right (see below).

DEEP CREEK (FT-02)

Purchased in 2010, the Deep Creek preserve encompasses 435 acres of sagebrush steppe and riverine habitat in Franklin County, Idaho.

Conservation values include:

• Relatively natural habitat for native plants, fish, and wildlife, including riverine habitat for the Bonneville cutthroat trout, a conservation priority species
• Transitional and winter range for mule deer
• Winter range and calving habitat for elk
• Scenic views for members of the public from Highway 91
• Property contains wetlands and riparian habitat within the Bear River watershed vital to the protection of wildlife populations, nutrient cycling, water quality, erosion control, and groundwater discharge

The preserve is open to non-motorized public access year-round. Popular recreational activities include hiking, horseback riding and hunting.

Please note that there is not an established trail system on the preserve. Hiking is off trail and over difficult terrain.

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9pR5mV2ficdPpcBQ6

Parking: There is no dedicated parking and road conditions may be rough.

THUNDER RIDGE (FT-03)

Donated in 2011, the Thunder Ridge preserve encompasses 200 acres of sagebrush steppe habitat in Bear Lake County, Idaho.

Conservation values include:

• Relatively natural habitat for native plants and wildlife, including greater sage-grouse, a conservation priority species
• Important winter range for mule deer and elk

The preserve is open to non-motorized public access April through October. The Thunder Ridge preserve is most often used for off-trail hiking (please note that there is not an established trail system).

Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8Ap4XnwvWJ89vZMX7

Parking: Please park in the vegetative pull-off on your right just before Sleight Canyon Road meets with Beck Road (see below).