Oct. 30, 2011 to Riley Creek

Off the ladies went to Rennell Sound ... the plan was to get a last hike into Riley Creek before the snow flies! This was the night after the Halloween Dance so the start while early was a bit slow ... we began with a walk out to the Knoll in search of the "green chair" ... it had disappeared in the big wind storm a few days ago. No signs.

Next it was out on the logging roads ... Blueberry and her driver did a great job, the roads were pretty good ... no traffic ... only one bear crossing the road [all the cameras were in the back ... it was big and black!].

Watching overhead we could see the odd spot of blue sky and by watching the road carefully we found the trail head into Riley Creek ... we had noticed along the way that the rivers were really rushing! N53 23.401 W 132 29.383

After getting ready ... rain gear and food ... off we went. It is a beautiful hike even though the government seems to have abandoned it. Today we over and under lots of blow-downs and mushed through many muddy spots ... but we were not deterred!

On we went watching for the creek crossing spot ... we had gumboots ready and were prepared to ford the creek and then take the trail along to the southern side of the creek to the beach. We passed the spot where the puppy was lost and saw the rushing river ... there were rapids in the river!

A couple of times we were encouraged when we saw a log across the river that we might cross on .... over the hill hikers we are supposed to be mature and wise ... we didn't try it and instead walked down to the saltwater on the north side - this meant we wouldn't get to beach comb. Yet amazingly we made find ... it perfect condition a huge yellow "marker/bumper" about 50 meters into the bush maybe 500 meters front the creek mouth!

We did get to a new place on the "beach" and there we decided to eat. After retreating a bit to get out of the wind and starting a fire, supplemented by a stove we enjoyed smokies, with all the condiments, chips and hot chocolate ... quite the feast!

Soon we noticed the tide had turned and was rushing in ... at the same time the river was rising! So we hastily decided it was time to head back up the trail as dessert, fresh apple pie was waiting for us at the car!

The hike back was jackets on, jackets off one, as although there were rain showers periodically it was mild.

All in all ... another great hike and we'll be back when the creeks drop ...