Ptarmigan Creek crossing

[Siyeh]

Question for hikers... has anyone ever tried crossing Ptarmigan Creek upstream from the Ptarmigan Falls bridge?

Saw on the trail status page

http://home.nps.gov/applications/glac/t ... s.cfm?t=MG

that the Ptarmigan Falls bridge is going to be out for the next few weeks. Imagine that trying to cross at that point without a bridge, in the heavy spring runoff, would be very hazardous if not impossible, and all around a really bad idea. Curious though about whether anyone has ever found an easier & safer crossing upstream.

Thanks...

[Ear Mountain]

My suggestion would be to find alternate hikes until the bridge is replaced.

[Jay w]

If you slip and go over the falls, its difficult to climb out of the valley down below. That makes for a long day, particularly when you're all skinned up with possible broken bones. If you try to cross the stream, there is no shame in wearing a helmet.

As to the question, all you have to do is climb along the north side of the stream and go around Ptarmigan Lake.

My work here is done.

Jay

P.S. File this under a typical "Jay" answer.

P.P.S. I think the south side bank of the stream is fairly steep just above the bridge site.

[daveparker]

Not something I would advise, it could cost you your life.

[pitamakan]

There have, in fact, been fatalities at that spot in the past.

[Chewy]

I crossed it last week. The upstream support has collapsed and the bridge is tilted in that direction. I had no problems crossing it dry, but if it was wet it could be slippery. I won't say if it is safe or not safe, hikers need to decide that for themselves. If a person did fall in the creek they would likely be flushed over the falls. The creek is pretty high and fast right now.

The trail to Ptarmigan Lake was about 99% snow covered from the falls to the lake, but that number is dropping every day. Fun day and I had the place all to myself.


PS. The bridge near Twins Falls on the trail to Upper Two medicine is also broken.