Saturday, July 18, 2009 - Temp Hi 63 Low 42 - total miles - 12. Packed up and out early. Clouds look like they are breaking up so we are hopeful that the sun will be back today. Headed out towards our goal of Cross Bay Lake. We were surprised how pretty Long Island Lake is especially when the sun came out for a bit - we need to come back when there is more sun and less wind to do some exploring. The portage trails today are like highways compared to the previous portages so far this trip. By the time we got to Lower George Lake the clouds were back. Saw our first people on the portage to Cross Bay - asked for a weather report - should be clear tomorrow. Got to the campsite we wanted on Cross Bay - nice site, but everything was wet and kind of muddy. It was drizzling again. Decide to just head all the way out and stay in Grand Marais. Stopped at the campsite where the Ham Lake fire started and just sat awhile and commented on how sad it was for everyone. It was hard to contemplate the magnitude of one person's decision and how tragic the consequences for him and all the others affected. All in all, the paddle today was probably one of the prettiest areas we had paddled but the weather was a downer. Got a shuttle back to our car from Tuscarora - very nice people. Got into Grand Marais about 3pm and got a great room at the Superior Inn - the shower was the best ever! Enjoyed delicious food and views while we were there. While we were disappointed we didn't finish our trip as planned, we ended with a very enjoyable visit to the charming Grand Marais. Quote of the Day - Having a Plan B is always a good thing!