Backpack - Ahtanum State Forest

This will be a unique and beautiful outing.  This area of the cascades is virtually unknown except to those in the nearby area (Yakima and the vicinity).  It is typical of "the eastside of the Cascades" with high ridges and valleys and has some of the most vivid fall colors I've seen.  The leader has been to the first night's camp and it is spectacular with amazing views and a spring nearby. Day 2 and 3 will be exploratory with the plan to camp at 'Green Lake' the second night. Each day will involve ridge walks with some travel on trail, some off-trail and some on jeep-tracks.  The actual routes may be adjusted based on conditions discovered in the field.  The plan is to have fires each night to help us stay up an hour or two after dusk.  It will be dark about 6:15 PM each night.  This area is a prime hunting area.  Please bring brightly colored external clothing and/or pack-cover.  Microspikes may be advised if we anticipate traction issues with snow on the ground.  Here is the proposed route:  https://www.gaiagps.com/public/8FgJexFhL78ZN5UHT0nB5YW7/

This is Leader's Permission Only Trip.  Please response to the following questions

1) I understand that this trip will cover roughly 28 miles in three days and gain about 6,700' total elevation.  I am able to do this and done a similar trip this past season.  Yes or No. Please list the trip that was of similar or more difficulty.

2) I understand that this is an exploratory trip and several issues are unknown and will need to be determined in the field.  I can be flexible and contribute in route finding and decision making. Yes or No.

3) I understand that the nights will be cold, there could be snow and night darkness will be about 12.5 hours each night.  I will prepare for this and bring extra batteries/head lamps and extra warm clothing and full rain gear.  Yes or No.

This trip is weather dependent and may be changed, shortened or cancelled if a lot of rain or snow or extreme cold is forecast.  If we get a good enough weather window this trip should be grand.  Rob

Meet at 10 AM at Ahtanum Meadows Sno Park lot.  We will adjust gear and shuttle one car or more cars to the second (ending) TH on North Fork Ahtanum Rd. We will return to the Snow Park to begin the trip there.

Getting There

Drive 2 miles south from Yakima on I-82 to Union Gap. Take Ahtanum Road west to Tampico then go west for another 9.5 miles on A-2000 (Middle Fork Road). Continue 0.3 miles to Ahtanum Meadows located on the left.  This is about a 3 hour drive from the Seattle area.

Discovery Pass is Required at each TH.