BWCA Snake River EP#84 trail Boundary Waters Group Forum: On Foot
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TuscaroraBorealis
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04/18/2021 07:34AM  
Got out yesterday and was able to hike the portage trail back to the Snake River. One of the curiosities that prompted this adventure was to be able to poke around at the site of the old logging camp just across the river/Bridge. In doing do, I stumbled across a very nice (and maintained) trail that continues northwards for at least several miles.

It appears it gets used by grouse hunters, as I noticed several spent shotgun shells. I never did come to the end of this path. Eventually, it started to get fairly brushy and not quite as easy to follow and being without proper navigational aids, I determined to turn back. I'm presuming this is part of the old logging camp trail/road system but, was wondering if anyone has some more detailed information or experience with this trail?
 
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TuscaroraBorealis
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05/17/2023 09:26PM  
Got back from a trip in/out of Snake River a couple days ago and actually learned a bit about this trail by sharing the actual portage with a group who were exiting at the same time as I was and actually used that extension.

According to them, apparently a few years ago someone illegally cleared out this trail (which was probably an old logging road back in the day) so they could portage without having to navigate the meandering sections of the Snake River. Obviously it appears to be catching on as I witnessed 2 separate groups using it (albeit one was just in for a day hike.)
Not sure how much time it would save versus sweat equity etc., nor what the Forest Service thinks of this but, I suppose if the river was down to a trickle this might at least continue to provide access through this EP. Not like it can be undone?
 
Minnesotian
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05/18/2023 08:14AM  

Interesting intel gathering. I wonder if that unofficial trail goes all the way up to the Snake River where it widens out a bit? Looks to possibly avoid two other portages?
 
TuscaroraBorealis
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05/18/2023 09:50AM  
Minnesotian: "
Interesting intel gathering. I wonder if that unofficial trail goes all the way up to the Snake River where it widens out a bit? Looks to possibly avoid two other portages? "


That's exactly where it comes out - after where the 2nd portage is. Although, on my recent trip that portage wasn't anywhere close to being necessary in or out. In fact the landing for this extension was the only noticeable evidence of recent activity in that area.
 
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