April 8th 2024 is the last total eclipse in the lower 48 until 2044. What better way to experience it than on a backpacking trip? The Eagle Rock Loop is very close to the center and will experience 4 minutes of total eclipse.
Eagle Rock Loop
27 miles 4100 feet
USFS Guide
Alltrails
FarOut
Good YouTube video
Saturday April 6th
I’m flying to Dallas (DFW) arriving at 2:04PM (Frontier 1426)
Pick up rental car and drive to the trailhead (250 miles ~4.5 hours)
I have rented a “mid-size SUV” so I’ll have room for 3 passengers.
Camp near trailhead
Sunday April 7th
Hike half the trail counter clockwise (thinking of camp here )
Monday April 8th
Hike
Total eclipse at about 1:50pm (it will be hard to miss). I think we should be at Eagle Rock Vista by then.
Hike almost all the rest of the trail
Tuesday April 9th
Hike a few miles back to car
Drive back to Dallas to catch 5:10pm flight (Frontier 2927)
WARNINGS
- I have never backpacked anywhere other than California.
- There is a significant chance of rain on this trip. April averages 6″ and 11 days of precipitation. Be prepared to hike in the rain.
- There are many crossings of the Little Missouri River. The level can get too high to cross safely (see this video)
- There are ticks and mosquitos. Spray your clothes with permethrin and bring insect repellant (DEET or Picaridin)
- If you are flying remember you cannot bring fuel with you so you’ll have to purchase when you get there. Lighters and safety matches are allowed on the plane but not in checked bags. Power banks are also carry-on only.
DISCLAIMER: Hike at your own risk. Be responsible for yourself and your safety. Make good decisions. With any trip, things can change, reservations can get lost, the unexpected can happen. A go-with-the-flow attitude is always a good thing, and most importantly, let’s all have fun! This is an intermediate hike. Make sure you are in good enough physical shape for the distance, elevation changes, and terrain. The hike leaders in this group aren’t professional hike leaders. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. The hiking group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event or assistant organizers (hike leaders) and…We are NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.
