trail crew member, but because of the September time frame and snow in the high country, I was to take a pack string of six mules so that we could take more cold weather gear for them. The trail begins innocently enough on
a water grade level, but then one-half mile from the lake it makes a steep ascent that includes sixty steps made either of logs or stone. Due to use and water runoff, some of the vertical steps may be up to two feet in height. In general most of the trails in this wilderness area are somewhat dif- ficult, and there was no need to add to the adrenalin rush that was coming.
One other Back Country Horsemen member and one U.S.F.S. person made up the packing crew. We prefer arriving at the trailhead as early as possible, in order to get the mules saddled and all the gear and tools packed into the loads that the animals will carry. The trip is a long one, anyway — seventeen miles in and seven- teen miles back out — that’s thirty-four miles to go over tough trails before dark- ness and makes the job more dangerous. On this particular day, the trail crew
arrived later than usual, and because of the large amount of gear, we were not able to get loaded and on the trail until
11:30 a.m. The plan, as usual, was to have the trail crew walk in ahead of us and en- sure that the trail was clear of downfall. The weather was ideal for packing, with the temperature in the 40’s and some overcast. In this kind of weather, the mules can make good time without overheating. Julie, the other Back Country Horsemen packer lady, has always been good help because of her riding ability and experience with pack mules. As is the usual custom, I do allow dogs to come along, as long as everyone is comfortable with them. If not, they aren’t allowed. Julie had her three on this trip and I had left mine at home because of the length of the trip. Dogs are of some value as they tend to move some of the troublemaker moose and other undesir- ables off the trails, thereby leaving more room for the stock on these narrow by- ways into the wilderness. The first couple of miles are always
the most trying as the mules get adjusted to their new surroundings and loads. It is not uncommon to have to stop and adjust the packs in order to get them balanced and riding properly. As I have said before, it is best to get a good start and make as few stops as possible because “Idle mule
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HILLMAN SADDLE SHOP rWestern Necessitiesr
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JULY 2013
• ROCKY MOUNTAIN RIDER 9
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