I am hoping to do a two day hike on Souix Hustler on 4/20.
The trip would be seemingly quite simple. Two teen boys, myself, a newby and two dogs. We plan only to hike to Shell, camp and explore with daypacks, then out the next day.
My only worry is the navigation given the time of the year with snow covering the trail. Since we would be going in along the river, I don't think I have anything to worry about.
That said, sometimes you don't know what you don't know. Any thoughts on my plan and navigation difficulties from snow?
I don't think route finding will be terribly difficult, particularly since it sounds like you've hiked the trail before and as you mentioned, once you get to the river it's pretty hard to go wrong. After leaving the river and crossing the beaver ddam it's pretty much an old logging trail until you get to the trail crossing to begin the "loop".
My major concern would be how icy some sections might be. It looks to be very warm this next week before your trip, so I would expect a lot of melting, but areas in the shadows particularly may still hold some snow/ice. Also, I would expect the section along the river to be very muddy. I have not personally been on the Sioux-Hustler this winter, but have done some short jaunts on the Kek and Snowbank trails and they still had snow and ice, even before this last snow.
Anyway, if you get up that way be sure and report back on trail conditions. Should be a fun trip!
I decided to change plans. The lady at the ranger station was not encouraging when I inquired about the conditions..
I would like for the new person to have fun. Her dog is a high energy dog and keeping him clean or in a small spot in the tent isn't realistic. I just think it would probably be a mistake, that she would not have fun, and that would be the end of backpacking for her.
Help keep support this community and website with the many resources it provides and maintains.
Learn more
We use cookies to enhance your experience, for analytics, and to support 3rd party content and advertising providers. If you continue using this website, you agree to our privacy and legal agreement.
Ok