Off and on, I've happily fished for cutthroat trout on the Lochsa for a good 15+ years. It's pretty amazing country. Next time I go - it won't be for "overlanding" but for the fishing. :)

Looks like an outstanding trip. Just completed the Lolo Motorway and Magruder Corridor with several great guys and am looking forward to a return trip for some fly fishing! :) Perhaps I'll meet up with you guys in 2020?

OUTSTANDING! Thanks so much for sharing your story and photos!

Yes, I start by going through the Palisades, then up via Slack Canyon Road. The main route pops out onto the Waterville Plateau a few miles later. Can't follow Douglas Creek all the way to Douglas. There will be trail runs for this route during the Northwest Overland Rally, on Friday June 21 & Saturday June 22.

A year later, and the creek crossings were a bit challenging. All of them:

Liberty is really a summer and fall place, not a good place for 4x4's in winter. I've got a lot of time in there, and it's not on my winter list. Perhaps somewhere lower, maybe the Moses Lake sand dunes? But not Liberty, not now. Regards, Guy

Heck of a trip! The weather was wonderful, the people were awesome, and the route is both challenging and scenic. Great way to spend the weekend. I'll try to post more photos, but it's difficult.

We had a cancellation Scott. You're welcome to join us.

No skidplate? Could be udder disaster!

I won't be camping Friday night but will meet everyone at the Rock Island truck stop, Saturday morning.  Weather here in the Wenatchee area has been cool and rainy. I'll bring some wood for a campfire. More will help!  :)

Ha! Well, ya.

Much warmer than last year! Maybe some rain? At any rate, this should be a good trip! :)

Mark, re-assessed my hunting needs. Freezers are full. Let's go to Liberty tomorrow!

Back from Montana and Wyoming. Looking forward to this trip!

Mark, I just can't make it this weekend, or I'd jump in for sure. We use Hole in the Rock at the Rally 'cause it's about "enough" of a challenge for many people without getting crazy. It's easy to find as well. Take a look at that site John Russell referenced for good info and even maps you can print. I'd recommend avoiding the "most difficult" trails without someone along who has done the specific trail in the past. They can get very intimidating and even dangerous.

Thanks!

Ya Ole, we stayed in Swakane one time, then zipped over to meet everyone at the Rock Island Shell Station. That worked just fine. I'd be up for that again. Was just at that campsite a week or so ago. It's still in great shape.

Headed into the Icicle River Gorge for a short camping trip last week.

Be aware that your timeframe of mid-October is hunting season. The Colockum is very popular with elk and hunters. Some of those good looking campsites have been used by the same groups of family and friends for generations, and most are likely to be taken, during the hunting seasons. Just a head's up. BTW, already nice up there. Some of the leaves are turning. Places to avoid or "must see" ? Hmm, not really. I like it all and get out there fairly often as I live in Wenatchee. A couple of the roads that lead down towards the Columbia are in pretty bad shape. There are some absolutely breathtaking views! Enjoy.