Duckabush River

Had an amazing 3 day backpack up the Duckabush River! Got a late start on Saturday and saw a few day hikers on their way out but had 5-Mile Camp all to myself. Continued on to Upper Duckabush Camp (mile 17.7) for the second night. Once you pass Ten Mile Camp the trail sees a lot less action. Saw a couple of Roosevelt Elk on the low slopes of Mt. Elk Lick. Also saw what must have been a bobcat or lynx??? -sorry no pics :(
This upper section of trail is beautiful. There are massive Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar mixed with Western Hemlock and later Sitka Spruce and Silver Fir. The understory was peppered with Swordfern, Oregon Grape, Salal, Kinikinik, Huckleberry, Salmonberry, Devil's Club and tons of others!
The ford before Upper Duckabush Camp was about knee-high and very chilly. Day 3 I trudged the long 17.7 miles back to the trailhead!