I ran the Snowbank-Disappointment Loop clockwise on Friday, October 10th. It was a stunningly beautiful day on the trail with improved visibility and drier conditions then the last time I was out in early September. I had set out for an attempt on the shorter Snowbank loop (21mi) but got 0.5mi off course by taking a wrong turn on the north section of the Disappointment loop. I opted to continue with the Snowbank-Disappointment loop, adding ~3 extra miles as backtracking to my planned route would have hurt my chance of a Snowbank FKT. I find this route challenging to run with the rocky and rooty footing, subtle trail tread, and downed trees -- really hard to get into a groove.
I think the Snowbank Loops are among the best trails in the BWCAW. Beautiful, rugged, quiet. The fire-maintained glades on the north side of Snowbank Lake are a treasure and provide expansive views of Snowbank's pine-studded islands and shorelines as well as views east to the wilderness interior. If you're lucky enough to get out there, chances are you'll have it all to yourself. I'm excited to go back for more runs or an overnight backpack.