Backpack - Whistler Canyon

Note:  Actual trip turned out to be one night, due to non-existent trail on day two.

This is an exploratory trip--meaning the leader has not been there before, nor anyone he knows.  Participants need to be comfortable as we figure it out as we go.  Both camps are somewhat near water (lake or pond), but it would seem best that participants plan to bring a bladder of minimum 3 liter capacity to fill up once and proceed to the camp.  The sites for the camps are chosen for the views.  This trip is best for those that can be flexible and enjoy some route finding and don't  mind finding a suitable camp.  If you want a for-sure proven trip with all the details worked-out this is not the trip for you.  

Here is the proposed Gaia route:  https://www.gaiagps.com/public/cvqShAc0uC6bN9MjT2vE7hUx/

The area looks quite interesting and is known for great wildlife and wildflowers.  Here is the WTA write-up: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/whistler-canyon-trail

This is a Leader's Permission Only Trip. Please answer/respond to the following questions when seeking permission:

1)  Please tell me about your experience backpack within the last year.  Can you do a three day trip with 6000' gain and with the longest day being 11.5 miles and 2,500' gain?  Please list trips you have done and dates.

2)  What have you been doing over the Winter/Spring to demonstrate that you are in condition for this early season trip?  Will you have done any backpacking trips this year, before this scheduled trip?

3)  The trip has several unknown as outline above--we will need to find a suitable camp spot (I have researched this and am pretty sure there will be flat attractive spots where I have chosen--but you never know), we will need to haul water a short distance to the camps.  There will be some easier off-trail travel on two of the days.  Are you comfortable with these issues and willing to be flexible and helpful

4) Have you backpacked with this leader before?  If not, could you kindly give me the name of a Mountaineers Backpack Leader I could connect regarding your past trip(s).

You can ask for permission immediately.  I will likely not be able to respond until Monday, April 21st (I will be off backpacking-of course).  Thanks.  Rob

Meet at the Whistler Canyon TH near Oroville, WA in late morning.  Exact time TBD. Note:  Oroville is a 4hr, 45 min. drive from Seattle.  Some may chose to drive most of the way the evening before the trip and camp-out or motel it.

Getting There

The trail is accessible three miles south of Oroville. Drive to the Okanogan River bridge and continue two more miles south, looking for the Whistler Canyon Trailhead Road on the east side of SR 97. Follow this to the road's end and the trailhead.  

No Pass Required at TH