While it is shaping up to be another picture perfect day, our tent, tarp & hammock are still heavily saturated with dew as we begin packing them away. Aurora heads back down to the river and catches a few more frogs & crayfish while Vickie and I finish packing things away. We have the river to ourselves this morning, and don't encounter anyone until we cross the wilderness boundary. Shortly after doing so, a Forest Service ranger motors up to us and inquires if we had heard or seen a motorized watercraft during our stay. We had heard a motor off in the distance one evening but, since we were camped virtually right on the wilderness boundary, figured it was coming from someone on a non-wilderness lake. He thanks us & moves on without questioning us further.

There's a little chop out on Farm Lake and we're forced to take a line that's a bit off course so we can quarter the waves. The landing proves to be a busy place as there are several (motorized) boats coming and going. Once we're loaded up, it's off to The Boathouse for some grub and to fill a few growlers for back home. Then a short visit at Grandpa & Grandma's before the drive home.

Besides the aforementioned set of binoculars. New gear for this trip included a Body Glove PFD for Aurora. There were no complaints, so I presume it worked just fine for her. Vickie used a new pillow that she seems very happy with (presently forgetting the brand). And, this was the first use of our new Irwin saw. I was amazed at how dull our other one had gotten as the new one really ripped through the wood. Great product! Thanks again to PortageKeeper for the recommendation.

Considering it was October, I was slightly surprised at how much traffic we encountered on this trip. But, since it is such a great area, and so easily accessed from multiple EP's, I guess I shouldn't be. Still, it goes without saying, that we achieved a far greater sense of remoteness/solitude than if we would've done this trip during the summer months. (Which is precisely why we like to hit these areas during shoulder seasons.)

In one sense it was unfortunate that we didn't get to camp on Clear Lake. But, I think things worked out just fine regardless. We had beautiful weather throughout, no bugs, memorable fishing and Eskwagama Lake (not just the campsite) was a pleasant surprise. The several scenic rapids and the waterfall were all fun to discover and explore. And, as always, it's always fun to see how Aurora grows each trip and what new things will fascinate her. But, I think this trip will always be remembered for Vickie's unforgettable performance along the Eskwagama portage.