CDT Day 141: Scapegoat Wilderness to Benchmark

Daily Miles: 29.5, Total Miles: 2,505.5

I woke up shivering last night and had to put on my down jacket. Another freeze, this time in the headwaters of the Dearborn.

I followed the Dearborn and then Welcome Creek up over Straight Creek Pass.

Straight Creek was true to it’s name and I followed it for several miles down a long valley all the way to Benchmark. Looks to be recent burns in much of this area, a stark contrast to the steep canyon walls.

I made my way past the long Forest Service airstrip to the Benchmark Wilderness Ranch. I picked my resupply box and had a nice chat with the owner, Darwin. He offered to give me a ride back to where I left off and I quickly accepted.

I decided to stay at the South Fork Sun River CG near the Benchmark TH. I love picnic tables!

I’m looking forward to seeing the much anticipated Chinese Wall tomorrow.