South Cottonwood Trail #422

Dogs Unknown

Starting from the South Cottonwood Creek Trail this is a relatively nice and easy hike until about 8 miles in then you begin a winding path alongside the creek that cuts back and forth across a few creek crossings eventually leading you to Mount Blackmore. Almost immediately after leaving the historic Rock Fork, it becomes much more dense and I needed to stop and find the trail a few times. Nothing too hazardous on my climb, but I did see elk and bear scat. So bear spray is a must! I did not see the Storm Castle Ridge Trail #417 turn off and didn't have my map to try and see where it could have been. So if that was your intention, I would be careful in tracking your millage to find the split.