*** Experienced BWAC crew leaders and co-leaders only survey hike (and for those budding volunteers interested in leading/co-leading someday). All participants must be pre-approved by the crew leader before registering. ***
Message or email Rod Markin ( rjmarkin@gmail.com ) or for approval and registration instructions. Do not hesitate to contact us as soon as you can if you are interested or have questions! Registrations will be in order of approval.
ITINERARY
We will be scouting the Sioux Hustler Foot Trail, noting which sections need work and deciding on a plan for the June 1-4 clearing trip. We will stay overnight on Thursday night at the Lake Jeanette Campground just down the road from the trailhead. On Friday morning, we will set off on the trail in a counter-clockwise loop of the Sioux Hustler Trail, scouting for tree falls and areas that need work. Expect to do 10 - 12 miles per day on Friday and Saturday.
On Sunday morning, after a hearty breakfast, we will return to the trailhead, stop for lunch in Ely, and be back in the Twin Cities by early evening.
This is a very rigorous hike and will require good skills and endurance. Contact organizer with any questions.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Each participant will carry their own pack, shelter, sleep system, food, and personal gear. You should be in good physical shape for full days of backpacking, and have a "can-do" attitude for unknown trail and weather conditions.
Recommended gear list: https://www.boundarywaterstrails.org/gear-list-for-trail-clearing-backpacking-canoeing-april
A REQUIRED local hike will be scheduled in April to meet each other, conduct a gear check and to hash out trip logistics. BWAC will also be holding a REQUIRED spring crew orientation the evening of April 4.
OTHER STUFF TO KNOW
All participants must sign the BWAC liability release, BWAC medical health form, and U.S. Forest Service volunteer agreement before trip departure. Review forms at https://www.boundarywaterstrails.org/trip-information.
The $25 registration fee includes a Mckenzie map of the Powwow Trail and offsets a portion of administrative and tool costs for BWAC. Additional costs will be your trip food, and about $20 shared gas for those not driving. Our trail partner, the U.S. Forest Service, provides the wilderness permit for BWAC volunteer crews.
Thank you for choosing to volunteer with the Boundary Waters Advisory Committee, where safety is our #1 priority.