Jimbo, Double D and Maria joined me on this shakedown trip on the west bank of Ross Lake to the Big Beaver Camp. The parking area was full with folks cycling the highway toward Washington Pass so come early to get a space. We found the last one at 9:30. The trail to Beaver Creek Camp is in fine condition with only a few blow downs which were easy enough to get around. The camp itself is also in fine shape with all the accoutrements including picnic tables and outhouses with T.P. and hand sanitizers. Very posh! The lake is very low right now, so it's a bit of a jaunt across rocks and sand to get to it, but it's still easier than going back to the Big Beaver Bridge to filter water.
The high point of our trip was meeting up with what seems to be the resident bear. He parked himself about 15 feet off the trail just before the camp. He was very uninterested in us and a bit lethargic when we walked by him several times at close quarters. I think the warm temps made him a bit drowsy. By early evening he was more active and hanging out in the grassy areas near the inlet stream. I don't think this is a problem bear yet, but if campers leave a messy camp with food bits around, that might change. So, if you're planning to camp at Big Beaver keep a clean camp and keep the big guy at a respectful distance and everything will be dandy.
We hiked the trail toward Beaver Pass three plus miles from the junction and it was in fine shape as well with just a couple of blow downs. This is a great early season trip!
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