Scouring Google Maps for something new to me, I spotted Brush Creek Trail, which also showed a rd number, so I wasn't sure what to expect.
Map below shows where I went: parked at gate and followed road to Triangle Pass, where I discovered an unmapped trail. Followed it, assuming it would lead to a nearby peak, but nope, it bypassed the high point. Checked my phone to see where it might go. Only sensible possibility was Grassy Knoll. I didn't realize I was so close to GK. I didn't continue, as I knew from the GK trailhead I would be tempted to continue. I can be a bit obsessive. So I saved myself the anguish and turned back.
I explored every nook and cranny on the way down. I was particularly interested in seeing if I could drop to the powerline that runs just north of Augspurger. Yep, it went really well.
Back home, I was curious to see what the standard route is to Grassy Knoll TH. Nothing on the map made sense, so I looked up our FG page. Well, as you may suspect, I discovered my route (the road part of it anyway) is the standard route, which means the main road I followed most of the day is one I've driven at least twice, many many years ago. That's one of the nice things about getting old, eventually everything is new again.
"Brush Creek Trail"
"Brush Creek Trail"
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Re: "Brush Creek Trail"
Sorry, but I have to ask: any ticks?
Re: "Brush Creek Trail"
Nope, no ticks. The grassy powerline corridor made me a little nervous, as that would have been my best opportunity to see some.
In my experience, the tick population exploded maybe about 2016ish, and has gradually tapered off. I can't remember the last time I saw one. (yeah, I know, I probably just jinxed myself)
In my experience, the tick population exploded maybe about 2016ish, and has gradually tapered off. I can't remember the last time I saw one. (yeah, I know, I probably just jinxed myself)
Re: "Brush Creek Trail"
From your description, it sounds like the driving directions in the Field Guide are no longer valid? You can't drive on FR6808 all the way to the TH anymore? The Field Guide gives alternate directions using FR68 from the East. Could you also use FR68 from the West (via FR65 and Wind River Rd.)?
Re: "Brush Creek Trail"
Hi wnshall. I can't answer your questions authoritatively, but I will say that I strongly suspect the gate I encountered on 6808 was seasonal. And I suspect the rockfall I encountered will be cleared. When things melt out a bit, I plan a return to Grassy Knoll, but I'll take my bike in case the road is still gated. And/or I might try the western alternate you mentioned.
Re: "Brush Creek Trail"
Not to be confused with the Brush Creek Trail in the Deschutes Nat'l Forest, Oregon! Not sure where this BCT is located - Washington?