Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

Sioux-Hustler trail push
by henrecar

Trip Type: Hiking
Entry Date: 07/18/2020
Entry & Exit Point: Little Indian Sioux River (north) (EP 14)
Number of Days: 2
Group Size: 1
Trip Introduction:
Finally solo'd the S-H Trail.
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Not for the faint of heart, but very rewarding.

Attempted in 2010 but the trail was in such bad shape. This time around, it was in better but still very primitive shape.

Common navigational issues, but was never in search of trail for longer than 10-15 minutes in dense areas.

Day 1:

Push to Range Line L.

First section from EP to the intersection is low, buggy, mucky and wet. The least remarkable section of the entire trail. Push through it, fast, and get to Devils cascade for a bite to eat. Then continue on.

Pageant L is the highlight landmark of this route. Beautiful small camp site, deep clear water. Pageant to Range Line is the most challenging section of this route. You really gotta be cognizant of where you are and how to find trail. Don't do this section if you're exhausted or it's getting dark, as you need to have your wits about you.

Camped at Range Line L. I would have in retrospect camped at Pageant. The Range Line site is very exposed. Range Line feels as remote as it gets in the BWCA, and was a 10 hour hike from the EP. Big thunderstorms came through, felt safe. Beavers everywhere.

Day 2 :

Push back to EP.

Range Line L to Shell L is the most magnificent part of this trail. Huge variations in terrain and massive old growth forests. Not difficult to find trail, not overly dense. You'll love the feeling of solitude. Some cairns along the way to guide you through open sections. It's lovely.

2x 10 hour days.

I'd absolutely do this again. A good out and back overnight trip would be the EP to Agawato L and back.