Baker River Ramble 2015

Setting out for the Baker River Ramble I was overcome by the same excitement that always floods me as I prepare for any backcountry trip. The anticipation of what is to come, the nervousness that you forgot something, and the indescribable feeling of venturing into the unknown. Rain beating down on the bus we drove out Hwy 20 all experiencing some version of these feelings. Sitting in our seats and imagining what the trip might be like we let the anticipation take hold.

At the trailhead we all unloaded our gear from the bus and began to lay it out in the parking lot. group gear was divvied up, personal gear rearranged, and packs unpacked and packed again until everything fit.

With everything either in or strapped to our packs we hoisted our loads and began hiking down the trail. adjustments were made, gear was moved, and straps were tightened to even out the weight. Soon most of us found our stride and adjusted to the heavier load as we hiked. Our first break came a half hour in at the suspension bridge that crosses Baker River. Here we dropped our packs and walked out onto the bridge. From the bridge we could see far up the valley, and for the first time our destination.

Heavy packs back on we continued up river in search of a camp for the next two nights. The trail wound through massive old growth cedars, thick tangles of roots made a staircase on the trail, and lush undergrowth filled the forest. Soon one of our veteran explorers who had done the Baker River Ramble twice already pointed out a good option for a campsite down on an adjacent sandbar. Eager to drop their packs for the day the boys immediately agreed to check out this spot for a potential camp.

The skill of quickly transitioning from packed packs to a functioning camp, bear hangs,  and kitchen can be difficult, especially if you have never had to do it. In accomplishing these camp chores it is essential to embrace the Explorers club motto; “We not only Me” as we ask ourselves what does the group need? The boys were slow to embrace this as their gear continued to get more and more spread out instead of consolidating and organizing. The backcountry if nothing else is a teacher through natural consequence. Tim and I went around and talked to each of the boys about how their camp would fair in a strong wind or down pour. We all agreed camp could not withstand the elements and slowly tents were zipped, food packed into the bear hang bags, sleeping bags put inside tents, and the loose odds and ends stowed back in backpacks. 

Once camp was tidey we commenced our explorations of our new home for the next few days. With the sun still high in the sky we all explored side channels of baker river, clammered up banks, and found new paths through the dense alder and cottonwood that had populated the banks. The glacial flanks of Mt Shuksan and Mt Blum were visible on either side of the river The more we explored the more we realized we had made the perfect choice for camp.

 The advantages to camping in a river valley are plentiful, but the morning sun does take a while to appear. With the sun just hitting the mountain peaks behind us we started the morning chores of retrieving bear hangs and boiling water for hot drinks and oatmeal. These daily Chores are not only important on a basic level, but again encourage the boys to see what the group needs and not only what they individual need.

With breakfast dishes done, camp tidied, and our packs on our backs we headed up river. The sun was hot, but our curiosity of what lay beyond the next bend kept us moving alongside the swift rush of Baker River. Soon we arrived at a side branch of Baker River that had formed what looked to be the perfect swimming hole. Quickly packs were shed, water shoes doned and boys began splashing and playing in the water.

We spent the remainder of the afternoon making the trek up to sulphide creek camp at the end of Baker River Trail. We arrived at sulphide creek to the sound of rushing water and large old growth trees. We all enjoyed taking a break at this camp, but agreed that we preferred our sunny camp by the river to this darker and significantly buggier site. The hike back down river to our camp went quickly while we talked on the trail and investigated the lush plants that grew in the understory.

Back at camp we settled into our evening routine of pumping water, retrieving bear hangs, and starting the stoves. Again we were treated to beautiful evening light on Mt Shuksan and Mt Blum as we cooked our evening meal. As the light faded and the first stars came out the boys wandered down by the river, played games in the small trees, and laughed. Already in just one night you could see a new found comfort and peace in the place instead of the nervous energy that had come with nightfall the previous evening.

On the hike out to the bus the boys were in high spirits and full of energy. We had a great pass that worked for everyone and only took one short break to readjust packs and drink water. This was a 180 degree difference from the hike in; constantly stopping, inconsistent pass and complaining about the weight of the packs. This was only one example of the growth and learning that took place over the course of Baker River Ramble. Backpacking teaches us not only the hard skills; but also the more introspective skills of confronting physical challenges, working as a group, and deeply connecting with a place. The boys took these lessons to heart and are well on their way to becoming not only excellent backcountry travelers, but also conscientious and compassionate young men. The extended time on backcountry trips is not not invaluable for the boys but also immensely meaningful to the mentors, a time to share what we love about the backcountry with the boys and hone our skills as mentors. Thank you boys for an excellent trip and thank you parents for your support and trust throughout. Make sure to look at our photo gallery for more pictures from the trip.