#2: [14-Oct-01]

24-Nov-2000 -- While visiting relatives in Springfield for Thanksgiving, I decided to make an attempt at N44W122. This confluence is somewhat remote and resides a few miles within the boudaries of the Three Sisters Wilderness area. As motorized vehicles are forbidden in wilderness areas, I knew some hiking would be required and prepared accordingly. According to topos, the most likely route would be to park near the wilderness border just south of Lamb Butte and hike in on existing roads until just east of Ollalie Landing Field and head into the forest with about .5 mile to the confluence.

The drive took me north out of Springfield, OR on Rt 126 to McKenzie Bridge. Here, I turned east on Horse Creek Rd. and followed it into the forest. The paved road quickly vanished and I continued on the gravel forest road until I reached FS356. Followed FS356 for a few miles as it wound it's way higher into the hills. Being Nov 24th, it didn't take long until I reached the snow line at approximately 3500 feet. I continued higher until, around the 4500 foot level, the snow was deep enough that I was losing traction in my stock Jeep Grand Cherokee. I'm sure I could've continued with minor effort, but being alone, I decided this wasn't the time or place to tempt fate. As a regular participant in SAR activities, I know the risks to both victims and searchers and didn't need to put myself or potential rescuers at risk should I get into trouble. My common sense got the better of me and I decided to consider this a successful reconessance run and make another attempt next spring when the snow level isn't so high.

In Three Sisters Wilderness.