Bechler Pitchstone Backpack 2009
Some folks would say we needed our head examined to go into the Bechler region of Yellowstone, in its SW corner, in early August. Crazy, of course, if you don't like bugs, since the Bechler is infamous for its bugs. But it all seemed like a good idea when we applied for our permit in early April.
The plan was to go up to the head of Bechler Meadows, then up the river to where the Phillips, Gregg, and Ferris Forks come together to form the Bechler. From there, we would navigate off trail up onto the Pitchstone Plateau. We would cross the Plateau, and pick up the Pitchstone Plateau, hike past Phantom Fumerole, and out south of Lewis Lake on the South Entrance road. It turned out to be a very full five days, since we covered 38 miles (at least), 11 or so of which being off trail.
Read MoreThe plan was to go up to the head of Bechler Meadows, then up the river to where the Phillips, Gregg, and Ferris Forks come together to form the Bechler. From there, we would navigate off trail up onto the Pitchstone Plateau. We would cross the Plateau, and pick up the Pitchstone Plateau, hike past Phantom Fumerole, and out south of Lewis Lake on the South Entrance road. It turned out to be a very full five days, since we covered 38 miles (at least), 11 or so of which being off trail.
