Borden creek trail 200 update...

[Rob]

I returned to Sipsey Monday Sept. 1 to check out trail and water conditions. Upon Josh's suggestion I took the trail ALONG the creek instead of the one up above it. Josh was right, this trail is much more interesting. 4.8 miles in and out, relatively easy to hike. Although I did take some liberty in hiking off the trail a little because I was interested in the overhanging rock formations in several locations, and this made it a little more challenging. I even hiked OVER the top of the small cave on the trail, and on the return trip, through it. It was very overcast and a little breezy which made it quite pleasurable ( thanks Gustav). The Water levels were a little better than a month ago, at least there was a little flow and not standing pools of stagnant water. The trail was well worn by the holiday weekend hikers, most of which were leaving after two days of camping. Lots of cars/trucks at the trailhead (sipsey rec. area), many folks were apparently hiking 209 sipsey trail. I am looking forward to returning when the water level a "normal" and there is some waterfall activity. Maybe on the next trip I'll have more time and do an overnighter on 209.

[Joshua Szulecki]

Glad to hear you enjoyed it and got some good distance. Sounds like you are doing good.

The Borden Creek trail is a good quick weekend hike. I usually hike from the Borden Creek Trailhead to the tunnel at the double waterfall, then turn around, as a good method of checking the waterfall and stream levels, and wildflower bloom timing in Sipsey. There is a cool moss area up the second drainage on the left of the trail, and there are lots of neat overhangs. There are also two waterfalls on a spur trail on the OPPOSITE side of Borden, but the trail isn't well maintained, and is mostly a fishing type track.

Next April, walk upstream instead. There is a trail that forms on the left side of 209 just after the bridge, running along Borden and then Braziel and Clifty Creeks. Excellent wildflower territory, and there are some secrets along the way, including a hidden waterfall.

[Rob]

Thanks for the tips Josh. I'll have to archive this info for a spring hike/photo op.

[SteveO]

200 is the nicest day hike in the Sipsey, period. (IMO anyway.)