In my continued exploration for trails that are not chock-a-block with hikers, I went out to the Gene Marshall trail. The northern terminus is at the Reyes Campground. This trail had everything: snow (got to do 1 1/2 miles of trail breaking), ice, mud (but only on really steep sections), overgrown (in need of major gardening), running creeks, more snow, three eco systems, great views, and solitude. I did not go as far as planned (Haddock Camp) as the going was slow and daylight was not in my favor. I really great day on the trail. Some pics of my Saturday
beginning of the trail
on the ridge above Upper Reyes Camp
The beginning of the snow trail -- up to Beartrap there were boot prints and thin snow and ice
The picture does not do it justice. Large snow crystals over about 100 sq ft shimmering in the sun
breaking trail in virgin snow
the trail forward
the trail crosses this somewhere, Beartrap Creek is running underneath
Looking back at Beartrap Canyon
On the Gene Marshall
- Uncle Rico
- Posts: 1439
- Joined: Thu Mar 20, 2008 7:48 pm
Nice Jerry! A couple of years back, and friend and I walked the GMT from Reyes Creek to Piedra Blanca. We spent 3 days/2 nights on the trail. First night at a very chilly Beartrap, second at Pine Mountain Lodge. Great outing. Nice, remote country. The campsite at 3 Mile looked particularly inviting.
When we were there, that section of the trail from just above Beartrap to the saddle at 6,262' was navigable, but trending toward overgrown. I understand the LPFA has a work party scheduled for sometime early this year to brush that section out.
When we were there, that section of the trail from just above Beartrap to the saddle at 6,262' was navigable, but trending toward overgrown. I understand the LPFA has a work party scheduled for sometime early this year to brush that section out.