Abby Propsom – Moose Creek Trail Crew Member

Hitch #2 June 25th – July 3rd

Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest

This hitch, like every hitch I have had the joy of experiencing in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, both last year as an intern and this year on staff, was packed with hard work, unexpected twists and pure joy. My crew hiked in right along the Selway River all the way to Three Links Creek on Trail #4.

It was a relatively quick hike due to our good fortune of getting pack support. Upon our arrival things got interesting. When we unpacked the manty boxes left by our packer something was missing. That something was my bag of food which accidentally ended up at Moose Creek with the Montana Conservation Corps immersion crew’s resupply. Not to worry, I was reunited with my Snickers bars and instant coffee the following day (thanks Joey).

Following our half marathon day to Three Links, we hiked up the 405 to Stewart Hot Springs, and it’s true what they say, it’s more of an elk wallow and a mud pit than a picturesque hot springs but still nice to soak your feet in after a long day’s work. We had a couple days filled with cut and run on the 405, trying to open as much trail as we could. We eventually made it to Three Links Meadow after getting on the 693 trail. Although we didn’t quite finish the section of the 693 that we were hoping to finish, we should get to be back in the same area next hitch, clearing up to Frisco Peak.

The views were jaw dropping, the laughter never ending, and the packs a little lighter each day. The bees and rattlesnakes were out in full force, the thimbleberries just ripening and the occasional afternoon surprise of a huckleberry bush right on the side of the trail always welcome. Another beautiful hitch in the Selway complete! Although I’m very glad for a little time off to relax, recover and shower. I’m still counting down the days until I can go right back to the place where I feel most at home.

Bianca, Britt, Joey, Lauren and Abby leaving the Wilderness at the end of hitch.