No big rush this morning as we pack things up. Surprisingly everything is completely dried out, save for the bottom of the tent floor. Aurora tries a few lasts casts from shore before we push off but, has no takers. I tell her we only have 2 portages today but, they are both fairly long and tough. I make a point to paddle through the Snipe lake narrows one last time as we work our way to the Missing Link portage.

Somewhat surprisingly, we hadn't run across any pink lady slippers anywhere on this trip. However, I do recall seeing some along this portage a few years back (see my trip report - Rainy Day People) so, i told Aurora to keep a sharp eye out. As promised, the portage was a good workout. I still had to retrieve our last pack back at the Snipe landing and, even though she wouldn't have to haul anything, Aurora wanted to stay at the landing and rest. Of course, this is the time I spot the pink lady slippers back off the trail. I take a few pictures for Aurora.

As I return to Missing Link Lake, I discover that Aurora is no longer alone. There is a friendly family of 4 that has just pulled in and they are heading for Snipe. I share the latest intel about the portage and campsite availability, ratings etc. We both linger a bit seemingly enjoying each others company and have a nice visit.

I seldom fish with a fully loaded canoe but, since fishing was a priority for Aurora and; we haven't do so well in that regard, I help her get a line in the water soon after we push off. Almost instantaneously, she claims she's got a snag. I let out a heavy exasperated breath. And then, I see her pole jerk even though were not moving. That's not a snag! She pulls in a nice 15" brook trout. WOO! HOO! It's her 1st ever brook trout and she marvels at the coloration of the pink & blue spots and how smooth the skin feels compared to a walleye. We pull off at a nearby campsite to get a picture and get it back in the water - thankfully it survives. Afterwards, she catches some more and the action is actually so crazy that I can't even fish as I loose several legit bites because I'm trying to help her. What a fantastic way to end this trip!

It pains me to do so during this frenzy but, we do need to get going so we paddle for the landing of the portage to Round Lake. Another Father/daughter come across just as we're pulling in and we let them know of the cooperative brook trout. Aurora has a little more spring in her step as we complete this portage. Not sure if it's the brook trout, neat rock walls, underground creek or, if she's just hunkerin' for Trail Center.

While out on Round Lake the massing large puffy clouds almost seem like a gathering of Superstar Destroyers from Star Wars. Soon enough Tuscarora Lodge comes into view and we give us the needed extra zip to paddle the home stretch.

Tuscarora is buzzing with activity and we pull off to the side to make way for people. I walk up and share a brief rundown of our adventure with Andy and then enlist to get a ride to pick up my van at the EP 50 landing. Upon our return, it's a refreshing hot shower and then we're off to Trail Center for hot food & cold drinks. Another great trip in the books.

A big thank you to God & everyone mentioned in this report. They all played a part in making this trip (and report) happen successfully.