Superior National Forest Update - October 12, 2018

National Forest Update – October 11, 2018.

Hi.  I’m Jake Todd, information assistant with the Superior National Forest and this is the National Forest Update.  Every week, we feature the information people headed out into the woods need to know, so if you are planning a visit or just want to know what’s up out there, this is for you.

Chances are good that if you are in the woods, you will be using a trail.  It may be a portage, or a hiking trail, or a biking trail, or later in winter a ski or snowmobile trail.  Trails are what give us access to the forest, and without them, we’d be, well, literally lost.  Some of our trails were established long before the National Forest existed by Native Americans and later fur traders.  Others were created only in the past few years.  Whatever the trail, they don’t maintain themselves, much as we wish they would, and many of our trails are maintained by volunteer trail organizations.  If you are interested in any of our trails and are considering volunteering to help keep them in good shape, the Northwoods Volunteer Connection will be hosting a ‘Trails Roundtable’ at the Voyageur Brewing Company in Grand Marais from 5 to 7 o’clock on October 24.  Anyone who is interested in volunteering on trails is welcome to attend.

High wind and ground softened by rain have made work for our trail crews recently as they clear deadfalls and downed branches.  They report that while there haven’t been large amounts of damage, there are some trees and branches down and hikers should wear good footwear in anticipation of needing to possibly detour over and around deadfalls.  With all the water, there are some very muddy trails out there too.  Rather than walk around muddy spots and widen the trail by use, we encourage people to walk through the mud and keep the trail narrow.  The trail crews would also like to remind people, through bitter experience, that even it if isn’t currently raining or snowing, snow and rain on branches will sometimes dump right on your head – so dress accordingly.

This a prime weather for hypothermia.  In winter, people usually dress for cold, but in wet fall weather, people often underdress with the hope that maybe it isn’t quite time to break out the stocking hat and mittens.  I’m sorry to say that it’s time to admit winter is coming and find the cold weather gear so you don’t end up hypothermic in the woods.  Wear layers so you don’t overheat, choose fabrics that stay warm when wet, and top off your outfit with something waterproof.  Finally, don’t forget your hunter orange – it’s the color of the season.

Our road system is in fairly good shape.  While we’ve had a lot of rain, we haven’t had the sort of torrential rain which overwhelms drainage systems.  There are some wet spots and soft shoulders, so drive carefully.  Fall color season is winding down, but still, expect slow moving vehicles on our main fall color routes and back roads.  Logging haul trucks are using the Frank Lake Road, Trappers Lake Road, the Dumbell River Road, the Wanless Road, Lake County 7, the 4 Mile Grade, The Grade, the Caribou Trail, and the Murmur Creek Road so be careful in those areas.

We are continuing to shut down water systems at the campground and put them into non-fee status.  Iron Lake, East Bearskin, Flour Lake, Kimball Lake, and Devil Track have all had their water systems put to bed for the winter.  Two Island Lake Campground has a portable water tank, but if the weather is cold enough, the faucet may freeze.  Though the campground water system is shut down at East Bearskin, water is still available from Bearskin Lodge so they will still be collecting nightly camping fees and providing garbage service until the cross country ski trails are groomed.  Campgrounds in a non-fee status are still open for use, but you will have to supply water and pack out your garbage.  Later, when there is snow, these campgrounds will not be plowed out and outhouses may not be accessible.

But, this week, before there is too much snow, be sure to take advantage of those breaks in the rain to get outside and enjoy some of the final days of fall. 

Until next time, this is Jake Todd with the National Forest Update.