Hike the Backbone October 2011

The Backbone is not a loop trail and it requires us to stage some vehicles at the end of the route so we have a way back when we finish. We used the “chuck wagon”, my truck, to pile everyone in the back, and one more which worked out quite nicely since we had 13 total hikers and a dog. We started on the North end of the trail at Road 339, which was the opposite of my regular visits. It was another perfect weather day to be on the trail with temps in the mid 60’s and clear skies. Actually, in my mind, there really isn’t a bad day to be on the trail, especially when work is the other option. On this trail, there is a lot of horseback riding, and it can really tear up the trail after a rain. But, today there were only a few traces that horses had been there, so it created no real hazards except for the occasional droppings to maneuver around.

One of the best parts of these hikes for me is meeting new and interesting people. This trip was not any different. As I spoke with many in the group, I found that we had more “transplants” than natives. Many of the hikers came to the Lafayette area for job opportunities from other states that included Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan (I think). It was great to hear how much they were enjoying our city and our culture.

At the start of the trail, the brush was getting overgrown and there were some downed trees, but the trail was still easily passable. Since the last control burn in Kisatchie last year, an abundance of ferns and wildflowers have taken over the landscape in some areas. This, mixed in with a spot of fall leaves, was a nice canvas of color, and it was quite beautiful and a perfect photo op. The trail started to open as we moved into the lower-lying areas and back up the ridge line to the first overlook area to stop and admire. Lunch seemed to come upon us quickly, and we made it to my favorite overlook of the trail that sits just about halfway on our destination. Judging by the small amount of leftover food, everyone was just as hungry as I was. The tuna salad pitas from Hub City Diner went down nicely finished off with a yummy peanut butter cookie, mmm mmmmm.

Our group was fueled up and ready to take on the rest of the trail until we hit the first of a few challenging hills, which started the joking questions, “are we there yet?” To which I replied, “Don’t make me come back there.” That’s what my dad would say on a long trip, except I was too afraid to see if he would actually do it while driving.

The limestone hills became a little larger as we got closer to the end, and then I remembered why I usually take the south end first: the climb out is a little more gradual but nonetheless still a climb. At this point, some seemed to be low on water and were wishing they had brought more since the temperature had risen to the mid to upper 80’s. For this hike, I recommend each hiker bring at least four liters of water and four granola bars.  Water for hydration and snacks for energy are a necessity on any hike. Oh, and socks for people who think they aren’t necessary.

Thanks to all who joined Bella and me for the hike. Everyone did a great job, and I enjoyed our time together.  I hope to see you on more hikes down the trail.

-Kevin Wallis, Trip Leader