Beauty interspersed with bugs. Three Days. 25(ish) miles.
This was a bit of a homecoming trip for me and Nock as this trail was our first backpacking trip several years ago. We were excited to see if it was any easier with our improved gear, lighter packs, and experience. The answer is yes.
Highlights: We love staying at Lake Three Campground. It is no longer "running", so we get the campsite to ourselves. It is on a beautiful lake and is very peaceful. I also love the Marengo River. It has a nice shelter (which we planned to stay in, but didn't). There are many wooden bridges along this trail. I am a sucker for those. Due to bugs we powered through on Day 2, hopped in the car and drove to Copper Fall State Park. We showered, set up camp, then slept away the rain throughout the night. The next day, since the storm was strong and it was still misting we had no bugs and a delightful hike throughout the trails at Copper Falls. It is beautiful there. We headed out to the backcountry campsite to check it out and I would highly recommend it.
Lowlights: The mosquitoes were in full force. The perk was that it ramped up our mileage because we had to practically run to keep them out of our noses, eyes, and mouths. We started with 100% DEET. Once we ran out of that we had to switch to 25% and the mosquitoes thought that was hilarious. They had a blast.
Tips: Stay at the Marengo River Shelter and Lake Three Campground. You do not need to carry much water on this section of the NCT as you hit a lake every 3-4 miles. Beaver Lake Campground (between Lake Three and Marengo River) is a wonderful spot for a break.
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