Out backpacking with Team 6290. We had 9 14-15 year olds and 5 adults. GREAT "Easy" riparian trip. Had planned to be backpacking on East Baldy with basecamp at Big Lake today but the Wallow Fire changed those plans. So with Christopher Creek as new basecamp. We decided on this trip. This trip is slightly more difficult than Fossil Springs. (Trade elevation gain/loss for route finding) Yes there is some route finding but that is to be expected in a riparian area. The trick is figuring out where to cross and if you have to go back a few hundred feet for an easier crossing spot. Kind of a rule to cross to the soft side of the creek bend as opposed to the cliff side and you will do well.

Did run into a recent burn out maybe 2.5 - 3 miles north of the dam. Fire crews were still hanging out at the campground but we didn't see any hotspots and no crew in the canyon. I understand the lake was closed Thursday - Monday.

Found a great spot to camp immediately past the power lines. That was kind of weird. The kids did great and we had a great time. The reward was resting at the lake soaking our feet in the cool water. The kids that brought fishing tackle all caught fish. After a cool down we headed up the hill to our waiting car drop.

Total Trip time 23 hrs with 14 hour overnight stop and 2 hr stop at the lake