Hurricane Creek area question for this weekend?

[lew1043]

Ok paddlers I have a BP question. We were supposed to backpack the OHT section that goes through the Hurricane Wilderness Area which would require us to cross the Hurricane Creek several times. Which creek (the Big Piney?) would you use to gauge the Hurricane Creek with? We need to know if we could cross it safely. We don't want to cross anything above the thigh if you know what I mean.

Thanks,
Lew

[Half Ton]

Big Piney gauge for sure.

It's been a while since I've last hiked through there, but I believe that there is an alternate/highwater route which takes out all or at least the worst crossings, but also takes out the best scenery like the streamside walk filled with huge boulders and a natural bridge feature and the best camping spots.

[landcruiser]

Hiked the part of the OHT that led to the natural bridge last spring - tried to cross to get to the natural bridge - too high to safely cross. With all the rain we've had I include in my plans an alternative to crossing the creek. Haven't seen it since then.

[Owl]

We paddled Hurricane yesterday and based on the level and the water I saw coming in from the drainages (great waterfalls!) I'd be skeptical that it'd drop enough by the weekend for a safe crossing especially the west crossing that usually has a very slick bottom.

Half Ton is correct that the high-water bypass trail also bypasses the best scenery. I've hiked that OHT section several times and I wouldn't bother with it if I had to use the bypass.

[freakinadamant]

Yes, the gauge for the Big Piney is what's used to gauge Hurricane: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv/?site_no=07257006

[lew1043]

Thanks for the info you all. We took your advice and went to a reluctant plan B. The Butterfield Field Trail at Devils Den State Park. It was nice but not as nice as HC Area. I have hiked it before and was looking forward to going back. Maybe next time. Good water for floating though.

Thanks,
Lew