BMWF #3: Historic Phone Line

Type of Project:	backpacking, trailwork
Rating:	Strenuous
Trip Dates:	06/19/2010 to 06/26/2010
Location:	Spotted Bear Ranger District, South Fork Flathead River, Bob Marshall Wilderness
Work:	Last year, our BMWF volunteer crew cleared 400 trees from the phone line; help us do it again! The historic phone line on the Spotted Bear Ranger District is the oldest working #9 wire phone line in the nation. Built in the 1920s, it is still functional and very useful to the district with five administrative sites and two public sites using it for communication. This phone system was widely installed and used from the 20s until the 60s, help us keep this working artifact in use! We are sending a crew into Black Bear Cabin in early season to help cut out the trees that have fallen on the line that runs parallel to the east side trail on the South Fork of the Flathead River between Black Bear Cabin and Salmon Forks Cabin. Be prepared to spend the week enjoying the singing of a cross cut as you saw, saw, saw! Work will be just off-trail on rugged and sometimes steep sidehills – not on the trail. Good hiking boots with ankle support are a must! Black Bear Cabin will be available for cooking, but we will tent under the stars. Once you submit your registration to BMWF, you will receive more detailed project information including a suggested packing list and driving directions. This is a backcountry camping trip with primitive campsites based around a FS cabin. BMWF will coordinate pack support to bring in tools, food, group gear and maybe some personal gear. You will be asked to provide your own gear and assist in camp chores. Sturdy boots, long pants and work gloves are required. All tools, safety gear and food will be provided.
Total Miles:	12 (to the cabin, 6-10 miles/day)
Elevation Gain:	+500'
RSVP:	Monday, June 1st

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