Woods Creek and Lakes

The Woods Creek and South Fork junction looking towards Rae Lakes. The Baxter Creek Canyon cut can be seen to the left, with point 3385 (next to another interesting lake canyon)  on the right. The PCT/JMT runs up that canyon.

Woods Creek Crossing and Bridge

Woods Creek and Lakes, SEKI, Spring 2005

The next point of interest along the trail is the Woods Creek Bridge, something I have visited a number of times now. Dave wanted to charge down the trail on the way out, but I could not resist the temptation to visit the bridge. One time I came through there I crossed and then sat down for a rest with a good view of the bridge. It was always fun watching people cross the footbridge. As you start across the bridge, it swings, waves and heaves and sometimes scares the crap out of hikers making their way across.

The infamous Woods Creek Bridge and camps. Note the hiker getting water below.

The trick to crossing the bridge is to walk heel to toe straight down the middle of the bridge. That keeps the bridge from moving around so much. Still, it is a thrilling walk. Horsepackers use a nearby ford.

Flowers, rivulets and ferns on a typical section of trail

Back on the trail it begins to climb again and soon there is that view seen in the top picture above. Looking up that canyon brought back other memories from other trips up that canyon, like the time I had to skirt a lightening started fire. I remember camping at beautiful Dollar Lake with its reflected view of Fin Dome. I remember the very faint trail leading to Baxter Lakes Canyon. I remember crossing some streams on rough trail and wondering what was up there at the source. I remember the park-like Arrowhead Lake and ponds with its many fishermen, and all of the many things to explore beyond.