Note where beavers have gnawed willows and aspen saplings to build a nearby dam, or look for animal tracks in the mud of the stream bank. Soon it will be time to turn back and return along the same trail with a new perspective. This trail does not go to the West Fork Campground. This trail was built specifically for hiking and mountain bicycle use. To avoid user conflict, it is closed to horseback riding and motorized vehicles.
Parking is available at either trailhead.
The black rubber bars set across the trail are water bars, designed to carry runoff away from the trail to prevent erosion. It is safe to ride over on a bicycle. Only experienced mountain bikers should attempt the portion of the trail that descends to the Black River, as it becomes very steep. Bring drinking water, as water sources in the area are untreated. The trailhead is south of Big Lake, on the west side of Forest Road 68.