The northern route parallels the Imnaha River for 20 miles until it reaches the Cow Creek Bridge, then winds down seven more miles to Dug Bar on the Snake River. Dug Bar is a jumping off point for floaters who have started at the Hells Canyon Dam. It consists of an airstrip, boat ramp, public rest facilities, many places to camp, one private residence and, of course, the Snake River. Hikers will feel they have found heaven with two short trails and a lengthy 45 mile trail all starting in the Cow Creek Bridge-Dug Bar vicinity. The Imnaha River Trail follows the Imnaha River from the Cow Creek Bridge for four to five miles until the Imnaha meets the Snake.
Wildflowers abound in the spring when the trail is used for fishing, hiking and horseback purposes.
The same path noted for its blooming prickly pear cactus in the spring was taken by Chief Joseph and his band of 700 in 1877 when they tried to escape into Canada. Elk, deer and bighorn sheep can be spotted from the trail. The journey is popular with fishermen, hikers and packsaddle recreationists, and is noted for its wildflowers and wildlife viewing. High clearance vehicles are recommended on the road to Dug Bar and the trails can be frequented by poison ivy and rattlesnakes. Passenger cars can make the one hour trek from Imnaha to Hat Point by turning right once leaving Imnaha.