Station Camp, Big Island, John Muir, Bronco OV at Big South Fork

October 2 & 3, Mile 245: Station Camp & Big Island crossings are natural fords for the Big South Fork where islands of alluvial deposits (sand, gravel, cobble, and mussel shells) create a broad shoal. Coal is found abundantly on the islands as smooth, black cobble. Recent flooding went a good 20 feet into the bank and covered the islands and its trees. Regardless of the river level, there must be a circuit in our reptilian brain that shocks us into caution when wading across a wide river. "No Business Creek" was a timbering community. Although the area is dominated by equestrian use, it is worth the trip to the river crossings. Through hikers can access the Sheltowee Trace via Laurel Ridge and the John Muir Trail via No Business Creek Trail.