BFRO #26572: Backpacker hears multiple vocalizations while camping near Trout Lake

📍 Location

📝 Description

Started on a three day hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest on 8 Sept 09 at trail head #48 near East Crater. After the first day of hiking into Indian Heaven Wilderness and spending a cold night at Elk Lake, I decided to hike to a lower elevation near Forlorn Lakes in which I camped on the second night (GPS N45 57.889 W 121 45.536). I was outside a designated camping site about 200 meters west in a small valley that paralleled road Nf6035. No one was occupying the camp grounds nearby that night and it was a very quiet night, until I was awaken with what I describe as three consecutive whooping yells followed by a guttural scream that lasted for about 3 seconds. It was very loud. Startled, I remember looking at my watch at the time and it was about 0230hrs. After the whooping calls, I heard very faint distant calls or howling (not whooping). The source of the scream was definitely coming further up valley I was camped in (maybe 200-300 meters away). I stayed awake for a couple more hours in my tent and heard nothing more during the night. I hiked alone for the three days, therefore no further calibration can be offered from another witness. But I do find something interesting, the sound I heard was a very close match to the recordings of whooping sounds on this web sight. Hope this small report helps.

🔍 Circumstances

only myself

🌤️ Weather Conditions

0230hrs, almost full moon. Temp was around 50F

ℹ️ Additional Details

0230hrs, almost full moon. Temp was around 50F

🔗 Sources (1)

👥 Community Contributions

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