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| Not sailing but still to do with water and wetness! This canoe trip took place in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minesota, U.S.A. This area, which is part of the Superior National Forest, adjoins the Canadian border and the Quetico National Park. It encompasses almost three million acres of wild and spectacular forests, rivers and crystal clear lakes, and is teaming with wildlife. Minnesota is itself known as the land of ten thousand lakes. The area was once the home of Sioux and Chippewa Indians who, using birchbark canoes, developed routes and portages. These were later taken over by the French-Canadian Voyageurs who used them to shuttle trade- goods and furs between Grande Portage and the interior. Entrance to the area is strictly controlled so that the remote, wilderness aspect is preserved. | |
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In our short trip, which lasted only a few days, we saw only one other distant canoe and felt quite cut off from civilisation. Everything, including water and mosquito repellant, that was needed for our stay had to be carried with us, an easy enough task in the canoe but quite demanding on the portages. These two photos show us setting off across Ojibway Lake and the first portage. All the portages were measured in rods (1 rod = 5.5 yards) .
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The first portage, between Ojibway and Triangle Lake, was only ten rods in length and relatively easy but the second, leading to the Kawishiwi River, required much more effort being a distance of some 190 rods or well over half a mile. It meant completely unpacking the canoe and took four journeys. Although made of aluminium, by the time this portage was completed the canoe seemed to weigh a ton! And, of course, the return journey required a repeat performance. The sketches and photos illustrate the portage, the camping site (where food had to be hoisted high into the trees in order to avoid attracting bears) and views along the Kawishiwi River. |
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Return to 'Sailing'. |