Draper Wood River Preserve

Step into the embrace of the Draper Wood River Preserve, a true gem woven into the fabric of Hailey and the heart of the valley. This isn't just a piece of land; it's a testament to the unwavering connection between people and nature. With every footstep, you're walking on a landscape that embodies the soul of Hailey, a place cherished by both locals and visitors alike. Spanning 124.41 acres, the Preserve's story is one of dedication, spanning over six years and three acquisitions, resulting in the protection of half a mile of the Big Wood River. It's a narrative that speaks volumes about the power of collective commitment to safeguarding the land we love.

What sets this place apart is the intimacy it shares with the community. Here, people experience a bond with the land that usually only blooms through private property ownership. It's a remarkable bond that inspires volunteers to shovel snow off the boardwalk in winter, a small act of love that echoes the profound connection between people and this cherished sanctuary. More than just a patch of nature, the Draper Wood River Preserve is a thriving hub of community life. This haven isn't cordoned off; it's an open invitation to come together, to explore, to learn, and to immerse ourselves in the natural world. Educational excursions find a home here, and research opportunities flourish amidst these serene landscapes.

For those seeking solace, a leisurely walk, or a joyful romp with their four-legged companions, this preserve holds a special place. It's a favorite spot where memories are made, where stories unfold, and where the unity of community and nature paints a heartwarming picture.

So come, experience the magic that is Draper Wood River Preserve. Here, community and nature entwine, and every footstep is a testament to the deep-rooted bond that transforms land into a treasured legacy.

Accessibility:

Wood River Land Trust endeavors to create Universal Access trails throughout all public access preserves. Universal Access is defined as a stone aggregate trail that complies with the Outdoor Guidelines:

• Tread Surface: Clear, firm and stable with a minimum width of 36”  
• Tread Obstacles: 2” high maximum 
• Cross Slope: 5% maximum 
• Running Grade must meet one or more of the following:
  • 5% or less for any distance 
  • Up to 8.33% for 200’ maximum 
  • Up to 10% for 30’ maximum 
  • Up to 12.5% for 10’ maximum 
  • For all running grades above 5%, a resting interval must be provided at both ends of the grade. Resting intervals and passing spaces may overlap 
  • No more than 30% of the total trail length may exceed a running grade of 8.33% 
•  Passing Spaces: 60” width, provided at least every 1000’ where trail width is less than 60” wide, with a maximum 5% cross slope 
• Signage must provide the following: 
  • Length of the trail or trail segment
  •  Surface type  
  • Typical and minimum tread width 
  • Typical and maximum running grade 
  • Typical and maximum cross slope  

At Draper Wood River Preserve, there is one ADA parking space by Lion's Park. The trail from the parking lot to the boardwalk is flat, crushed rock.Note: While Wood River Land Trust endeavors to upgrade the majority of existing trails to Universal Access status, not every trail is able to be converted because they are in the floodplain and if they were upgraded to Universal Access status, angular rock would be washed into the river during Spring flooding every year which is not ideal for the health of the river.

This preserve has a passport!