Tue, Mar 27 2018 - Sope Creek Mill Ruins and More (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Holt Ward Participants: Holt Ward, Evy, Becky Douviile, Mary Reed, Janet G, Dave P, Wendy B, Carolyn Naser, Sharon Morrison, mike hirschmann, Sharon C., Lidia, Bruce R

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Another good hike and walk through History at Sope Creek this morning.  We had a great group of 13 hikers on our trek today.  After passing Sibley Pond, we headed out some of the lesser used trails including some that are not even on the official Sope Creek Recreation Area maps.  We hiked along Fox Creek for a bit before turning off onto a more rutted trail that climbs back up the ridge. The climb got us heated up and people starting shedding coats on the way up to the top. 

Along the way we saw evidence of former settlers who lived in this area including several woods roads and the foundation and chimney remains from a settlers cabin.  Next we headed back down towards Sope Creek where we saw the remains of the old Paper Mill across the creek.  After a few more ups and downs, we visited the Pulp Mill ruins on the west side of the creek before crossing and hiking about a half mile down to visit the Paper Mill ruins in more detail.  After a brief stop to learn more about the history of the Paper and Pulp mill, we headed back to our cars. 

We finished our approximately 5 mile hike, gaining about 700 feet of elevation along the way.  We did have a few people relatively new to the club who we were happy to have with us today.  Sharon M and Mary were on their second AOC event and a special welcome to Lidia who was on her very first hike with the AOC. I hope to see all three of you on future AOC events.  ~ Holt