Looking at the map, I see a creek heading north out of Smoke Lake (near Sawbill). Anyone ever been up that way? I know I could get to Sawbill via the portage, but thought I'd ask the question. Thanks.

I had a friend do it a couple years ago. They dropped down the creek from Sawbill into Smoke. He said it was a bit of an adventure but doable. I don't recall the time of year or the water levels. I can call him and review the details.

Called my buddy and he said he renamed his wife the "bogwalker" on that route. Very narrow creek.....like only as wide as the canoe with multiple small beaver dams to pull over. Beavers kept the creek deep....but narrow. His parting shot was "unforgettable".

Awesome, just what I was hoping for!

I can tell you it's an awesome spot to shoot a black bear...have gotten two off that creek in the past. It's not the shortcut it appears to be on the map, so unless you are simply looking for adventure I'd take the long way around.

I learned 50 years ago that there are reasons they put portages around creeks. Fought this one for an hour before we gave up and bushwhacked back to the portage.