Mapping the Sheltowee

[Walkin'man]

Hello all. Great forum! I'm leading a group of four, somewhat seasoned but all rusty, backpackers prepping for a two night trip on the ST. This is the first steps in eventually backpacking (in sections - remember, we're rusty!) the entire trail from North (closest) to South.

Don't fear - I (therefore we) ALWAYS pack out more trash than we pack in, always follow NLT, etc.

My first questions:
1) We're taking two cars and shuttling - is it safe to park at the Northern Terminus for two nights?
2) How difficult is the trail on that end?
3) How far can we expect to go in 1 evening, 1 full day, and another half day? We're all in decent shape, but I'm probably the only one that's hiked more than 5 miles with a weekend pack in years.
3) With the above question in mind, where could we park the second car (safely)?
4) Any suggestions on camping spots? We'll arrive mid/late evening the first night, so I'm guessing only about an hour or so before dark.

Thanks in advance for any replys. And a BIG THANKS to all those who dedicated time to work on the trail. I plan to join you in the coming weeks / months to keep this trail maintained, so please let me know of any orginized activities in need of volunteers!

[I.B.Me]

Walking man,
I have never had any problems parking at the northern terminus. I would leave the worst car there just in case. You could leave the other vehicle at Wal*Mart (old or new).

This section is not dificult but it is starting to get grown over in a few places with briars and posion ivy. A good pair of gaters or just long thick pants will make the trip more enjoyable.

It is dificult for me to tell you how far you can walk without knowing your abilities but you should be able to get to Morehead (~26 miles) in two days without much trouble. If you reach Morehead in one day, just reshuttle your vehicles to Cave Run (~11 more miles) or wherever you will end and continue the walk.

To find a camping spot is another question. The first ten miles are dry once you crest out on the ridge. Be sure to bring enough water for dry camp that first night and probably the second. There are several ponds along that section but most people will not pump pond water unless it is an emergency.

The first decent camping spot is about mile 8 when the trail joins a nice wide fire road that has plenty of spots to set up tents. The road is not ideal due to the rocks paving it but there are several areas beside the road where I have camped before. You cross a gas pipe line about mile 6 that could suffice too. If you are hammock camping, just about any spot will do.

The second night may be dry too. It is dry from just past triplett creek to Morehead. You may want to stash some water along fire road 977. There are plenty of campsites along 977 but I would try to hold out until you pass the first gate so you are not bothered by the ocasional vehicle.

I worry about you finding a decent camping spot that first night but this is hiking so conditions will not always be ideal. There is a wide spot just as you crest out on the ridge (~mile 1). If your group is not up to rough camping, just begin early the next morning.

The good news is that Jim and I just put up trail markers on that entire section so you should be able to stay on the trail easily.

Good luck,
Rick

[Walkin'man]

Thanks, Rick. Good information. We've decided on doing a stretch of the John Muir Trail in the BSF for this hike, but I will get up to the Nothern Terminus of the STT (right after I get a hammock). I appreciate the effort you guys put in to maintain the trail, and I look forward to getting on it.