WTA was at the trailhead this morning, but they headed south while we headed north. A few soggy, mushy places along our route but only Shy Bear Pass had a big, muddy puddle that required stone-stepping to cross. Lots of cleared debris at the sides of the trail.
All the waterfalls were gushing: Coal Creek Falls video. The favorite was Far Country Falls with it's luscious moss and licorice fern vestments: Far Country Falls video. It's been almost a year to date since completing this same route. What's new is the handsome retaining wall, stairs & railing at Doughty Falls: Doughty Falls & new construction video. Today's trip: 8.8 miles with 1166' gain in 4.5 hours including a snack break.
Sadly, food waste trash greeted our arrival at Wilderness Peak. Suspect that those who do this also don't read WTA trip reports ... but if you do, know what citrus peels do not decompose in the forest and the tomato & sandwich waste doesn't go on the ground, it packs out with you 😠 Today I packed out the citrus peels, but if I catch you doing this, I'll offer you the bag so you can pack it out, yourself 😒
Comments
GoodKarma on Whittaker Wilderness Peak, Indian Trail, Licorice Fern Trail, Quarry, Shy Bear
That's a great route. Did similar a bit over a year ago and really liked seeing all three waterfalls. Nice to see the new stairs. Thanks.
Posted by:
GoodKarma on Mar 21, 2025 10:02 PM
traveller6 on Whittaker Wilderness Peak, Indian Trail, Licorice Fern Trail, Quarry, Shy Bear
Nice report, thanks for the info.
One small correction: citrus peels WILL decompose in the forest. Obviously. Do you think they are made of plastic? Citrus takes longer than other materials, and they decompose quicker when they dry out, but just ask my compost pile if you doubt they decompose.
I no fan of garbage anywhere on a trail, and I'm sure you will disagree, but its OK to just bury the things under dirt.
Posted by:
traveller6 on Mar 24, 2025 07:35 AM
Zipster on Whittaker Wilderness Peak, Indian Trail, Licorice Fern Trail, Quarry, Shy Bear
Citrus peels can take up to 2 years to decompose. In warm, moist environments with rich microbial activity like a compost bin, it still takes 4-6 months. Bottom line: Orange peels don't belong in the forest. Pack it in, pack it out.
Some people find pleasure in trolling WTA trip reports. Disappointing.
Posted by:
Zipster on Mar 24, 2025 05:41 PM