Bear River

I have become obsessed with Bear River. Probably because it is one of the few hikes accessible from the cabin without driving and a route easy enough that even I cannot get lost. After my usually "trip into town" (town consists of a small grocery and an infrequently open cafe/deli/giftshop) I am up for a hike.

Saturday, three of my friends Christine, Christina, and Terry, joined us for the day. I had prefaced my invitation with an explicit description of the cabin and the amenities provided (shovel and toilet paper) and still the girls had volunteered for a day trip. (I used to describe the cabin as "rustic", but after talking to one of my colleagues at work who told me of his upcoming trip to a rustic cabin (no TV!) I make sure to explain-no running water, no bathroom, no outhouse, no electricity - and no TV). I guess the pioneer days are long gone.

After a brief tour of the cabin and stream we decided everyone was up for a hike and Bear River was suggested. I had perhaps lauded the virtues of Bear River with its deep swimming hole and relative obscurity and privacy. With five of us going, there were plenty of volunteers to help carry the imp, an added bonus for any hike.


While Bear River doesn't normally see much action, this weekend we witnessed the arrival of a single SUV carrying at least ten highschool boys and girls. Bear River has a poorly maintained dirt access road, washed out in some places with a rather precipitous drop on one side. We asked the girls how they all fit in one SUV and apparently a number of them were hanging on the outside during the trip down, the girls in fear for their lives. I mentioned hiking was an option, but they seemed shocked at the suggestion.

The imp enjoyed being held at all times and tolerated getting her feet and hands wet. The water was a little too cold for babies, but after the initial numbing pain rather nice for the adults.

Inspired by the teenage boys and their multiple jumps and head first dives into the river, Christine and I decided to have a go and jump off a twenty foot overhang into the water. After debating the merits of our plan, examining the jump from multiple angles, and reconsidering whether or not this was a good idea, Christine jumped off.


Seeing her survive with no broken bones or paralysis, I followed suit. There was actually enough time for me to think to myself as I was falling "Was this really such a good idea?"





After the hike back up, we were ready for some grass-fed beef burgers, salads, and a few beers back at the cabin. Even Zoe enjoyed a well earned beer at the end of the day.