Sipsey Preparation

[JC785]

My first trip to the Sipsey will be the last weekend of Feb. I thought a great hike would be 200 to 209 to 204 to 224 to the car or something similar. Looking at the map I noticed when 200 meets the 209 you have to cross Sipsey Fork/Borden Creek. Hows crossing the creek? Water level?

[Lesley]

(if it's the one I remember) Last spring it was knee level on my short legged self. It was a broad crossing, but I can't imagine it would be impassable even now.

[elbowman]

Hello,

I was out at the Borden Creek last weekend. The water level is not high, just enough to get your knees wet. The point where the Borden meets the Sipsey is not very wide, maybe 20 - 30 feet across. Just pay attention when you get near the other side, as that will be the deepest part of the crossing.

If that area does see heavy rain before your trip, it will still be crossable. My sons and I made the crossing during Christmas vacation, and it was alittle bit above my waist. And it was COLD water. But we have removed our pants, shoes and socks, and with a small hand towel was dried off and moving down 209 within 10 minutes.

That's the kind of things that makes good memories!!

Eric

[southmark]

There is a trail down the opposite side of Borden. It is unmarked and unnamed but well used. No crossing Borden will be required. Has a nice waterfall on that side.