Field orientation
Know the route. Read the terrain.
The Ankle Express system follows Greenleaf Lake through rolling forest, rocky shoreline, and quiet backcountry camps. A shorter out-and-back reaches the swinging bridge, while the full trail creates a more demanding overnight experience well suited to teaching pacing, camp craft, and group preparation.
BEFORE YOU GO
The longer northern sections are primitive and can be overgrown. Heat, ticks, and limited water make cool-season travel preferable.
Verify current conditions
Closures, permits, weather, water, access, and regulations can change. Use the official land-manager source before every trip.