Richland Area Access for Hiking

[mcmurma]

A buddy and I are thinking about backpacking up Richland Creek towards the falls and camping for a few days, but I'm a bit leery about making such a trip when the water in the creeks and feeder streams is likely to make creek crossings a real chore, if not downright dangerous.

Also, I understand the campground is still closed, but that are there places to park outside the campground?

We're planning on hiking up to the falls on the trail that is on the same side of the creek as the campground, and though neither of us has ever done this trail, many years ago I explored a bit of the area across the feeder creek (falling water?) just west of the campground. The water was low and I don't recall the creek crossing being much a problem at all... more of a boulder hop if I remember correctly. Thinking it may be very different with high water and backpacks.

We would be doing this Tuesday or Wednesday. Any input from those that know the area would be most appreciated!

Cheers,

mac

[Clif]

I would think creeks far too high this week for safe comfy foot crossings... far from expert opinion. You are right about most points. Another consider... the trail prolly has been used less this year and may not be well defined???

Bushwack down from above? You got topos?

[justin.payne]

I hiked in there a mile or so a couple months ago. There is a gate that is closed leading into campground. If you park outside the gate and walk through the campground you will come to a trail board. From there, walk up the hill to your left and the trail there is still pretty defined. Have fun, but be careful.

[mcmurma]

Thx guys.

Due to the crossing conditions we have decided not to hike that area and instead are carrying kayaks up Ponca. We did consider coming in from Hill Cem... I have the Moore quad, but since any crossing would be a chore, and probably a dangerous one at that, we decided not to fight the water when we could just get in a boat and flow with it.

Cheers,

mac