Sat, Jan 28 2012 - Big Scaly Mountain Loop (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Scott Kozlowski Participants: Scott Kozlowski, Lisa Bell, Matthew Borland, tim frey, Michelle A, William Dean, JDubs, Kimberly, Andy Altman

Write Up:
The nine of us had perfect weather for the hike up Big Scaly.  After a quick up and down warm up we arrived at the crossing of Beech Creek.  Almost a wade with all the rainfall, eight of us paused to remove our boots and mentally prepare to plunge our warm toes into the frigid waters.  Andy chose to prove what the rest of us already knew, he cannot walk on water.  We all safetly made the crossing and Andy waited in his soggy boots as the rest of us re-booted.  A few less daunting stream crossings later and it was on to the long slog up the hill.  Luckily most of the climb is along the wonderful cascades of Beech Creek which serve to relieve some of the pain with the picturesque falls and soothing sounds.  After completing most of the climb we stopped for a brief lunch break and a side trip to High Falls which had an invigorating strong flow displayed.  Matthew managed some nifty footwork to capture some great shots of the falls.

Back on the trail, we made the final push to the campsite in a high valley between the summit of Big Scaly and the ridge of Standing Indian.  Everyone set up and then chipped in to the wood collection process.  Once comfortable that we had an ample supply of wood for what promised to be a sub-freezing night, we set off for the half mile hike to the summit of Big Scaly.  After enjoying the views from the summit some decided to retreat back to camp before sunset.  Those who stayed despite the wind and plunging temps were rewarded with a fine sunset.  Those who went back to camp got started early on the long wrestling match to wring some heat out of the fire.  Its not easy with wet wood and 20 degree temps!

After the dinner rush, discussion turned to frozen boots, cold toes and the challenges of backcountry travel in the winter without a sleeping bag.  In typical AOC fashion, deals were made, some sacrificed for others and everyone survived the night.  To set the record straight, Kim is from Texas and she rides alone.  Matthew should be thankful that she is less rigid with her tent space.

We were greeted by the sun early (not too early) in our campsite as we packed up for the relatively easy hike down.  Except for the brief side trip to Chimney Rock it's down all the way.  Back to the trailhead by 1:00 PM after 24 hours in the wildnerness...doesn't get any better than that!

Matthew's great pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1446322078&ref=ts#!/media/set/?set=a.3291508733670.2164276.1446322078&type=3

My pics:
https://picasaweb.google.com/103884128031631003380/AOCBigScaly12812?authkey=Gv1sRgCIHLod6kjOXBwQE#5703529095211392034

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