50-Miler planning

Post date: Jan 3, 2010 8:46:57 PM

The Scouts planned a 50-Miler backpacking trip for this summer. The date is set (see the calendar; June 19-26). Apart from the date, the route has not been planned. At the annual planning meeting, the Scouts carefully developed the following criteria for identifying the trail and route:

1. Minimal dry camps (camp by water)
2. Downhill, mostly
3. Loop
4. Trailhead within 2 driving hours of ELC
5. Scenery
6. Resupply and exit/entry points (some mention of having pizza delivered)
7. A lake
8. At least 50 miles
9. 7 days duration
10. 1 easy resting day, preferrably near the lake (item 7)
11. "Famousy" trail

Please offer suggestions for specific trails under comments. Please be specific. And if you can find a trail that is mostly downhill (2) AND a loop (3), you're a genius. Thanks!