Eleven hikers defied the reports of a midday rainfall and set out on a through hike.
We drove to our trail's end at the Snobird Staging area north of the Airport and carpooled from there to our trail beginning point at Esten Lake Boat Launch.
We began our hike at 10 30 and finished at the Staging area at 1 10.
The ATV trail we used was in good condition with muddy spots and large puddles. There were sporadic moose and deer tracks amid the fresh 4 wheeler tracks. Vintage wolf droppings ( mostly hair) were also spotted. Grouse were heard drumming several times.
We heard Spring Peepers and Barking Toads as we walked by swampy areas near the Airport.
Our hike began and ended with sightings of majestic birds. A bald eagle was seen at Esten Boat Launch and Sandhill cranes were seen near the airport.
There were so many welcome signs of Spring !
Thanks to Tim, our sweep, and Rodd who scouted out the trail on Tuesday.
Our hike was about 7.25 km. A bit shorter than the 10 as had been estimated because we did not explore any side trails from the main trail.
