October Sipsey Route/Questions?

[JC785]

October Sipsey Trip Trail Route

Park at Thompson Creek Trailhead and hike trail 206, 209, 204 (Stay near the big tree Sat. night), 224, and White Oak Hollow out or the opposite way.

Questions:

Are there plenty of campsites near Thompson Creek Trailhead? (We will be getting there after dark)

Are there plenty of water sources on the proposed trails?

Any big creek crossings?

How many campsites are in the area of the Big Tree? and how big?

Plenty of waterfalls on that route?

Is there an unofficial trail threw White Oak Hollow or do we have to Bushwhack?


In case of foul weather is there a natural shelter near by? (Last trip we went to Sipsey it Rained, Snowed, and  had Tornado Warnings. Feb 28-Mar 1, 2009)

[Magic City Matt]

I'm going to take a shot at this one guys please correct me if I'm wrong.

Ahem.....


Yes

Yes

Yes

Enough for around 6-8 tents and even more near by

Yes

Don't know

and Yes, but you should avoid bluffs and shallow caves in case of lightning because they are actually attractors.


Well 6 out of 7 aren't bad.

M

[Magic City Matt]

I guess these could use some elaboration though.

[elbowman]

Hello All,

I'll throw in my two cents also:

1. Campsites at Thompson Trailhead:  Are there? I remember only one small spot between the trailhead and white oak turn-off. Unless I am mistaken, you might have to hike a good ways up 206 to find a nice site.

2. Plenty of water all around.

3. No water crossings, except for Bee Branch.

4. Big Tree camping is up on the bluff above the canyon. I don't think there a good spots down near the big tree itself.

5. Plenty of waterfalls

6. Never done white oak yet. I will this fall.

7. I was unaware that the bottom of a rock base was a bad place to be at in rough weather.

Eric

[Tacky Hiker]

Thanks Matthew and Eric.

I cant wait for the trip !

[Jackalope]

How many campsites are in the area of the Big Tree? and how big?

Plenty of waterfalls on that route?

Is there an unofficial trail threw White Oak Hollow or do we have to Bushwhack?

There are campsites all along the way if you go 206/209 to the Bee Branch, there's a campsite at the intersection of East and West Bee and there are campsites up on the ridge on 204 but I would try to avoid camping near the Big Tree to minimize further impact on an area that is already damaged from overuse.

This isn't really a waterfall hike but there is a nice one (sometimes two and maybe even three) at the head of the "Big Tree Canyon" as well as a nice cascade above it. Also, there is Auburn Falls on 206.

There is an unofficial trail through White Oak Hollow but if you are are not familiar with it, it's easier to go in that way than to come out. You see, going from 206 it is well defined until you get right into the Bee Branch complex. From there, it is less defined in places but follows a feeder to the West Bee and on to the intersection of the Bees. It would be tricky finding the way out unless you knew what you were looking for.

To go in that way, from the Thompson Creek trailhead, follow 206 to the first stream crossing. Cross the stream here and you will see a sign pointing the way for 206. If you look, you will notice a trail following the stream you just crossed upstream. Take that trail and follow it until you come to old trail 205 which is an old Forest Service road on top of the ridge. You can't miss it. Jog over to your left (Northeast) about 20 yards or so and you will notice a clear trail going down the other side. There is a downed tree across the trail just after you get on it that you will have to straddle to cross. Right where you would sit to straddle it, someone has carved an arrow in it pointing the way. From there, just follow the well worn trail all the way. If you loose the trail after you get into the Bee Branch complex just keep going downstream until you get to the junction of the Bees and pick up the "Big Tree" trail. The big tree will be to your left and the Sipsey to your right.

[JC785]

Thanks for all the advice everyone! Its a big help!

[Uncle Wayne]

I would try to avoid camping near the Big Tree to minimize further impact on an area that is already damaged from overuse.

Amen!  There's plenty of places to camp in and above the canyon without camping on the roots of the Big Tree.

[montysano]

The Big Tree is on the east branch of Bee Branch.  The west branch is one of the most amazing places in the Sipsey.  Take a run up there if you get a chance.

[JC785]

Amen!  There's plenty of places to camp in and above the canyon without camping on the roots of the Big Tree.

I agree, I dont want to camp right at the tree somewhere in the area.

[JC785]

Forgot, Thanks for all the advice everyone.

[McDowra]

remember we want pictures 

[Tacky Hiker]

I will take a lot this time. We took like 200 pics last trip.

[JC785]

I need to upload the pic from the past trip.

[JC785]

http://s899.photobucket.c...ldwell785/?albumview=grid

Link to last Sipsey Trip photos

[Pathfinder]

Fantastic Photos!!!!

[Tacky Hiker]

That was such a fun trip !!

[JC785]

All packed up and ready to head out after work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Tacky Hiker]

Me 2 !

[Jackalope]

All packed up and ready to head out after work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Me 2 !

You fellers be safe and have fun!!!!! (I say while turning green with envy)

Give us a trip report with pics when you get back.