CDT Day 99: Lake of the Woods & Fire Re-Route

Daily Miles: 26.2, Total Miles: 1,729.9

I hiked around most of the Lake of the Woods in the early morning – full of water lilies. Spent most of the rest of the day crossing several willow-choked drainages and a good stent on Leeds Creek.

I arrived at Sheridan Pass where I was closely surrounded by a noisy cow herd, all seeming to want something from me or a piece of me or maybe just a salt lick. We then were all interrupted by thundershowers and had to seek cover.

The rain died down in about an hour and I started down Squaw Creek as part of the Lava Mountain Fire re-route. I think the fire is out but the CDT is still closed for about 14 miles. In the five miles to the confluence of Papoose Creek, I got soaked to the bone by the wet willows and tall grass and lost the trail several times.

A couple of bugling sandhill cranes flew overhead as I set up my tent. Very cool scene, but not quite making up for the wet, cold, muddy mess.

I met only one couple hiking southbound all day.