Big South Fork

“So I'm planning a hike to BSF. I've done many trails East ofthe river, but never hiked up the river. We're proposing to start from Leatherwood and head North on the East River Trail, and then crossing at Big Island...however...I have no idea what the water will be like at that point. I've been to BSF in March before andthe water wasn't exactly raging, but the only pictures I've ben able to find of the Big island crossing makes it look pretty deep.

Anyone been there and attempted the ford?

Also, anyone taken the No Business trail to the Terry Cemetery and then on to Twin Arches? How's the water supply between the two? The map shows nil.

Word up.”

“Not ignoring.. just dont know.. I luv the BSF area.. but don't know the answers to those Q's..”

“Anyone?”

“bionicear....I've been to Big Island via canoe....when we cruised through there the water was high at the time but there were alot of riffles so if you happen to be there when the water is low, you could prolly cross by rock hopping and if I remember correctly the north end of the island was shallow and would be an easy cross....”

“What time of year were you there Stratusloop?”

“Summer....last year....first week of August...”

“Got a few moments here before chores. I usually cross Big Island or at Station Camp during the summer. Water is anywhere from 10 inches deep to 24 inches deep. I use a three man ring when crossing with the children. Current is swift and at times strong enough to lift your feet off the bottom so go slow and be direct in your crossing line of approach. I do not use the rocks to cross on they are slick with moss and will spell trouble for your footing. Prefer to just put on water shoes(sandels) and wade thru the river. Keep in mind the recent weather patterns for previous rain spells.(wunderground.com - Jamestown,Tn.)Several small creek runoffs inroute to Terry Cemetary but water is scarce once on top. Black Bear reside back in here now. Not a great mast again this year so they will be hungry ,be sure to make some noise. My map is the old logging map that shows the old trails(circa 58-61) so I didn't see a trail from No Business to Terry Cementary. I have used a horse trail from the top at Terry Cementary and skirted down a 10-12 foot rock overhangingto reach the bottom JMT trail and then found another way old loging-rail bed trail on my topo that brought me back up from No Business to Terry Cementary.There were several small runoffs( 2) coming from John Muir Overlook that are around 3mile and 2mile from the Divide road. Only water I know off up there.

When are you going and do you want any company?

Have a great time. Hope this helps.”

“Does anyone else know or have a first hand knowledge about the Big Island crossing at this time of the year?”