Strawberry Basin (Fourth of July Trailhead)

July 27, 2000

In late July, we left 4th of July trailhead and passed the Highland Surprise Mine and its scenic, fallen-in cabin (the trailhead used to be at this location).

We followed the old mining road which climbs sharply, contouring around Blackman Peak, to Strawberry Basin divide.

We detoured to the east ridge to see the extraordinary view of David O’ Lee Peak, Ants Basin and Warm Springs canyon.

Our goal was to hike out a long ridge above Mt. Home canyon, to the abandoned Patty Flynn mining claims.

We found the Forest Service had ripped up the primitive road and toppled trees across it. Our easy walk became difficult and some people turned back.

We pushed on and reached the mine tunnel, and its remote, wild setting. We howled for wolves and coyotes howled back. We saw bear tracks in the mud; mountain goats on the cliffs.

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