Hike From Babyfoot Lake to the Upper Chetco River

After years of tedious, tenacious and strenuous work, volunteers have the nine-mile route from Babyfoot Lake Trailhead to the Chetco River looking better than ever. Last weekend we maxed out our group size limit and 12 volunteers set out to clear thick brush and logs from the route.

On Saturday, May 24 the crew backpacked five-miles from Babyfoot Lake to a seasonal water source and spent the second half of their day clipping thick brush that had grown back since volunteers worked this section in 2010.

The next day the crew headed to Bailey Site and worked through another 1.2-miles of trail where thick brush was pushing users off the tread and making it difficult to pass. Some crew members took a side trip and summit Bailey Mountain, which offered unique panoramic views of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness.

In addition to getting a whole bunch of work done, volunteers got to embark on the rare Kalmiopsis leachiana which was nearing the end of its bloom cycle, and they explored a rugged side of the wilderness which is typically just passed through by boaters and others seeking the lure of the Chetco River.

SMC crews have worked over 500 hours this year alone to continue restoration of this iconic route which offers access to outstanding botanical resources, as well as access to the beautiful Upper Chetco River.

Support our efforts today with a tax-deductible donation, or join us for a volunteer trip to help restore the entire route from Babyfoot Lake to Vulcan Lake.