254

254
East Fork of the Little Buffalo Three Dude Overnight Backpack
4/1/17
  0800 hours...three dudes...breakfast. As we entered Dewayne's Restaurant in Dover, all patrons yielded and offered their tables. We declined and chose an empty table near the window. The meal was as hearty as usual including eggs, browns, bickiss, gravy and a plate sized slab-o-ham. Coffee was served hot, as we requested...none of that cold crap for us. After filling up on sundry breakfast items, we departed said establishment and headed north to the high plateau. The fairly clear skies gave way to clouds and fog...for we were so high in elevation as to place us up in that shit. We did manage to find our entry point on a forest road in Newton County. We'll call this road "access road"...cuz that's what it was, man. We hoisted our expensive packs and tightened all straps and buckles. With all participants ready, we entered the forest.
  By now it was 0945 hours. Temp 50°. Skies cloudy. Slight breeze. The shrubbery embraced us with branches low and stickers high. We struggled to make headway. It was only with iron will did we penetrate the tightness. After hours of brutality we emerged from the woods and viewed the gulf that lay before us. The broad valley was that of the East Fork of the Little Buffalo...a tributary of the Little Buffalo...a tributary of the Buffalo...a tributary of the White...and on and on. Suitable surroundings were procured and the campsite prepared. Skies had, by now, cleared...revealing what some might call a day that contained much beauty. 
  A resting period ensued and some lunch-like food was raised to lips. After much recon, a way down the bluff was discovered and utilized. Down into the chasm we moved, feeling much peril all around us. Non was realized...no peril, that is. The river was lovely and clear with blue reflections from above. Occasional wispy clouds passed over and it was quite peaceful. The temp would have been somewhere near 70°. There was much rejoicing. After a time, it was back up the 45° slope and over the top and back to the comfort of our night's lodgings. Firewood was gathered and more relaxing partaken of. 
  Sunset came around 1930 but the clouds were back to obscure its passing. After foodstuffs were taken, the fire was evoked with pure bushcraft action...not. Much lounging around the glowing fire pit did occur and by 2330 all had retired to their respective sleeping units. The night was quiet and uneventful with a low of 49°. After rising around 0700, all gear was relocated back to our packs that ranged from 48 to 85 liters in volume. We bid the bluff line farewell and by 0900 were back to the car. The temp was 58° and the skies were pretty much cloudy, but they cleared on the drive home. I was home in time for lunch. Good trip, I would say.

Photos Click Here

Map Action