Got out today and hiked the Snake River EP #84 portage today! The trail was in great shape (didn't run across any blowdowns) but, with all the recent rains up here, I was a little surprised that the trail wasn't a little soggier. The swampy mid section had water but, since I didn't have a canoe to haul, I easily skirted around those sections. I was also somewhat surprised that there were a couple of cars in the parking lot. (I ran across them on the trail.)
Once across the bridge at the Snake River, I took some time to explore the site of the old logging camp. Noticed an old boulder fire ring and a couple of huge old moss covered sawed logs but not much else.
Also, I did take the trail the heads north and hiked it for several miles. Not sure if this was an extension of the old loggers road but, it was in great shape and it was obvious that someone has taken quite good care of it over the years, as there were countless sawed trees and branches along the way. The occasional empty shotgun shell I came across provided a clue to whom may actually be doing so. Which, by the way, I ran across a number of grouse along the trail. Didn't hear any drumming yet. Eventually the trail started to peter out and, not having any navigational aids along, I turned back.
Besides the shotgun shells, I came across an dilapidated culvert and old empty anti-freeze container well back in the woods. Kind of embarrassing to admit that the things that stick out to me are the things that, ideally, aren't supposed to be there; rather than just absorbing natures beauty on this glorious day. Still, it was great to be in the woods enjoying a vigorous hike. If all goes well, I'll be doing it 'for real' in about a month so, this was a good warmup.
Meant to hike the Bog Lake trail today as well but, shortly after pulling into the spur road, I determined the muddy conditions of that road were a little more than I was comfortable with for my van - especially being alone. So, that one will have to wait for another day...