Road to Bear Lake Trail launch

[Connie Mier]

Hi everyone, wondering if any of you have recently driven the road that leads to the launch site for Bear Lake trail.  I'm thinking about heading down there on Sunday but am not too keen on driving my little car on the dirt road.  Last summer it was very rutty and full of water (and occasional gator).  With the recent rain, does anyone know what the current conditions are?  Thanks!

Connie

[yakmaster]

Not too bad last Sunday.

I thought the gate was still locked so we launched from Little Coot, then we found the gate open & checked the road. There's a marly stretch, but it was pretty solid.

Don't know the impact of this week's rain...

[Jared E]

Connie,

I was there last Saturday. Like yakmaster I figured the gate was closed and ended up launching in Coots Pond. When I got to the Bear Lake drop (via Coots Bay-Mud Lake) there were lots of tourists, paddlers, and hikers. There were plenty of small cars at the parking area when I had to portage over so I don't think it will be a problem for your car (unless it's one of those SmartCars). I encourage everyone to take a trip down the trail there before the bugs come out. We bumped into the Swamp Ape crew during our paddle and they have done an awesome job clearing debris to improve water flow. When you get into Mud or Bear lake the bird life is really good right now so bring your camera. If fishing is your thing bring some shrimp and be patient.

-Jared E.

[Miami101]

The gates are now open, and March the park will make it public.

[Terry]

About time, the gate should have been open for the season - the Friday before Thanksgiving,
same as backcountry permits.

When's the ribbon cutting ceremony and official re-opening?
We should all be there for that!

[Miami101]

March is when I hear the park is going open the trail. There is still some work left to get done.
I thought I saw your truck last week at the park Terry........

[Swamp Ape]

Hey all,

The BLCT is actually now open to the public from the put in to Bear Lake.
The official "Grand Reopening" ceremony will be sometime this coming November.
We'll post the date once it is determined with certainty.
Come out and join us, we'd love for you all to lend a helping hand.
The clearing continues and is projected to be completed this Sept/Oct
If we could clone Carlos, we'd be done by July.
As to the Bear Lake road being closed periodically, it's because of conditions.
The unusual amount of rain has made the road dangerous from time to time.
ENP maintenance has been working on repairs.
As we go forward with this effort, and future projects in the planning stages, we are always looking for participants.
Our projects are known to and approved by the ENP.
The Swamp Apes work within the rules and knowledge of the ENP and we expect all our members to do so as well.
Thank you all for your enthusiastic interest and support.
If you would like to participate go to www.SwampApes.com and email us.

Bear Lake Canoe Trail gear/outfit checklist
Required
1. Long pants
2. Long sleeve shirt
3. 8" or higher boots
4. Work gloves
5. Hat with bill (Full brim preferable)
6. Drinks and Water

Optional
7. Bug spray
8. Sun block
9. Mosquito net
10. Food and snacks
11. Hard Cooler or 5 gallon bucket w/lid
12. Change of clothes
13. Clean towel or cloth
14. Basic first aid kit
15. Eye protection

Bear Lake Canoe Trail - Project description

PHASE 1: Clear canal for unobstructed passage to Bear Lake 100%
PHASE 2: Identify and remove safety and aesthetic obstacles 80%
PHASE 3: Remove bypassed debris from canal 60%
PHASE 4: Remove piled and verge debris 50%

[Jared E]

Connie,

Did you end up going on Sunday?

I just got to load my photos from my trip with my brother and thought you all would like this one.

Major props to the Swamp Ape crew for sacrificing their time so others can enjoy the park and it's beauty.

- Jared E

[Connie Mier]

Jared, awesome shot and classic too. Those dang birds are always flying away through those mangrove tunnels! We never made it out there due to a last minute trip I had to take over the weekend. Hoping to get out this weekend, as it seems the winds may still be high and camping plans may be scrapped once again.
Connie