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Backpacking Building Blocks Student-Only Backpack - Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek

Field trip: Backpacking Building Blocks (B3) Course

Backpacking Building Blocks Student-Only Backpack - Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek

We will be hiking Ross Dam/Big Beaver Trail alongside Ross Lake to Big Beaver Camp. This is a shaded, rolling trail with some water crossings that we will hike as a group. We are pacing for beginning backpackers who may have lower fitness levels or B3ers who prefer a slower pace.

Contacts

Leslie Frank
Leslie Frank
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Elevation Gain: 13,000 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 2,100 ft
  • Pace: 1.5-2 mph

We will meet and leave our cars at Ash Way Park in Ride in Lynnwood at 6 am for those who want to carpool. If you want to meet at the trailhead, you will need to arrange a parking permit with NPS. We expect to be at the Ross Dam trailhead parking lot by 8:30 (we want to be early for parking on a Saturday.)

This trip is open to all B3ers. 

We will hike as a group. Day 1: 7 miles to Big Beaver camp. Day 2: 7 miles back to the trailhead. There will be some stream crossing involved but recent trip reports indicate no struggles. 

Current conditions: Currently lake water levels are low. There are trail-side creeks where we can purify/refill water. Mosquitos are present so bring your favorite repellents. There have also been solitary black bear sitings in the area -- I will verify the presence of bear boxes at camp. If there are no boxes we will all have to carry bear vaults (or share them). There will be absolutely no eating or cooking in tents. We will set up a kitchen nearby. The bear is being watched and is not considered habituated or a danger to humans. 

Route/Place

Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

The Ten Essentials, plus overnight gear as specified by the trip leader

Trip Reports