My last day within the Jay Mountain Wilderness begins at the serene Merriam Swamp but takes an ugly turn while bushwhacking back to the marked trail. Dense vegetation, ancient blowdowns, panicking ruffed grouse and rock cliffs are just a few of the obstacles overcome. It is not all bad though, as I find the perfect resting rock and briefly step out of the forest for a gorgeous view of the surrounding area. The trail not only provides a swift exit from the area, but provides my first interactions with actual people after six days of solitude. A great ending to a fabulous trip, even if the eventual fate of Lot 8 is never far from my mind.
Jay Mountain Wilderness 2014: Paper Birch Blowdown on Way to Merriam Swamp
A mature paper birch blowndown is all that exists between me and my final destination of Merriam Swamp on day five in the Jay Mountain Wilderness. The blowdown combined with a steady slope and a constant horde of black flies makes the last leg of my day memorial. After reaching Merriam Swamp, I am captivated by the view of the Jay Mountain ridge dominating the view. Entertainment in the backcountry after the bushwhacking is complete includes watching a lone hiker make progress on his/her journey on the ridge after climbing Jay Mountain.
Jay Mountain Wilderness 2014: A Wet Summit on the Mountain
The sound of pitter-pater on my tarp greets my awakening. At first, before the shroud of sleep lifts completely from my mind, my thoughts turn toward early morning insects. As my awakening progresses, the insects give way to the true culprit, raindrops ricocheting off the tarp instead. It is going to be a wet day,
