I was wondering if anyone has been on the Johnson Falls portage (WEST end of Pine [thanks, cowdoc], listed as portage #70) and would please let me know what shape it was in. We were there a few summers ago and there were about 7 or 8 downed trees across the trail. It was pretty tough and I'd like to avoid it as we have our newbie 7yr old daughter going this year.

Thanks!

It has been 10 years since I last did that portage, I do still remember it being more challenging than most other portages. I am planning on taking 10 yr old nephew that way in May. Depending on when you need the information, I could get some updated information to you after that.

Gone by now. Select less challenging trips if concerned about the child.

Portage 70 is on the WEST end of Pine. (Canoe to Pine). I've done it a few times. It is one of the tougher portages in the area due to length and elevation, but it's not really that bad. We last did it in late August of 2016. That was the year of the bad storm that summer (July??) The portage crews had cleaned all the down trees out and it was a good trail, although we were witness to the destruction that took place and you could see where there had been several trees across the portage. There may have been a few snags that have come down since, but I would have expected them to be cleared out last summer. You should have a good trail.

We did it last summer. All trees were cleared. Long portage.

Thanks for the correction, hopefully I'll know east from west before we start paddling. I fixed the op for clarity.

How much is your 7yo's pack going to weigh? LOL

AmarilloJim: "How much is your 7yo's pack going to weigh? LOL"

She will carry her own sleeping bag, clothes, water bottle, life jacket, and whatever she wants to read. That's what our son carried his first time out. Now he adds the saw and one propane bottle. Really pulling his own weight.

I just came here to say how beautiful Johnson Falls is. This year will be our 8th year but Johnson Falls is a highlight of the BWCA that everyone should visit.

We spent a few hours there relaxing in the cool water. Love that place.

The portage is challenging, but if your daughter's load is light, she will be fine. You, on the other hand...!