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Posted by Wendy (69.86.13.70) on 15:38:52 06/14/2009
In Reply to: Fairyland basin posted by Paula
Paula,
Getting to Fairyland requires more planning than most backcountry hikes because of the dangers mentioned by RandalH. It is illegal to overnight there or at Joseph's Coat. The closest backcountry
campsite for which reservations are a must is #4B1
which is five miles away from the Promontory (where you get your first view of the Basin below). Five miles may not sound like much, but believe me, I know many a hardy young hiker who has been sorely taxed by those particular miles. There is no trail beyond Joseph's Coat. It is a very difficult bushwhack due to the steeply undulating terrain and the enormous amount of deadfall. Getting down from the promontory to the Basin is long and steep through dangerous, slippery and congested terrain. Young, fit and experienced hikers may not need rope but I would recommend it anyway. The Basin itself is extraordinary and there is much to explore so you want to be able to spend some time there. Dangerous thermals abound. It is exquisite and worth the effort but not to be taken lightly AT ALL.
If you are a fit backpacker, experienced in bushwhacking thermal areas and rugged country in grizzly habitat then I highly recommend going. It is a once in a lifetime place to see on your feet. Free advice: hike with no less than four people, bring bear spray, rope, significant aid and a rescue beacon, choose a turn around time in advance for leaving the Basin that will give you ample time to return to camp by nightfall and STICK TO IT. The area is excellent grizzly habitat and you are a long, long way from help.
Please click on my Trip Report a few posts down and scroll down to my trips to Fairyland. It took me two tries to get there and back.
Please also note: 4B1 is an off-trail bushwhack
backcountry campsite itself next to beautiful Broad Creek whose clear, rushing waters are infused with arsenic. You'll need really good water filters, too.
Feel free to e-mail me with questions.
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