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!