We were keeping an eye on the weather hoping for 2 good days so we could go backpacking. This spring has been cold and very wet. The weather gods finally cooperated so we discussed trips options and selected an old favorite Hickory Creek Wilderness. Here is the trailhead
We did the hike clockwise and planned to camp at Jacks Run.
Hickory Creek is a great birding spot in the spring. Leann was happy.
We heard a lot of birds. We did not carry our binoculars so seeing them was a challenge.
Seeing Ovenbird on the Merlin list brought back memories of seeing our first one by the trail in Hickory Creek. They are easy to hear due to their loud call of TEACHER-TEACHER-TEACHER. They are very persistent with the calls and I have to say it can get old after a while. The Ovenbird gets its name from its nest construction that resembles a Dutch oven.
The United States Congress designated the Hickory Creek Wilderness in 1984.. Total acreage is 8,633.
Starflower
We got quite a workout going over, under and around the various blowdowns.
The beavers were very busy at Coon Run.
You have to tip your hat to their building skills.
Ringless Honey Mushroom according to Google lens, apparently they are edible.
Durston X-mid 2: I have a love hate relationship with this tent. I will do a pro vs con in the future but I want some more nights with it.
COWBOY TV AT JACKS RUN
Since this is a wilderness area the forest service does minimal work on the trails. Alltrails really helped us to find our way back to the trail as we worked our way around the jumble of trees.
This use to be a meadow but the trees are taking over.
Chicken of the Woods, an edible mushroom that is considered a delicacy. It has a taste and texture similar to chicken, particularly when young and tender. These looked perfect. I asked Leann if she wanted some for dinner, she said no.
HAPPY TRAILS, STEVE