What is the approximate length of Clearwater? Can you drive from EP62 to EP64 without going on the Gunflint Trail (i.e. grade road)?

When you portage from Pine to Canoe and go past the falls, is it possible to ditch your boat and hike to the falls and then finish the portage, or is it better as a day trip?

Thanks.

I think Clearwater lake is in the neighborhood of 6-6.5 miles long. It took my wife and me (not particularly good paddlers, traveling rather heavy) about two hours give or take to paddle (YMMV depending on wind).

I don't think there's a way to drive b/w EP 62 and 64 without hopping on the Gunflint Trail but I could be wrong.

Assuming you're talking about visiting Johnson Falls, you can definitely leave your canoe at the portage entry on Pine and hike up to the falls. Just try to keep it out of the way for fellow paddlers coming through. As far as portaging from Pine to Canoe, my best advice is just not to. :)

EDIT: The falls are to the west of the portage at the SW end of Pine. It's a bit of a circuitous hike, but you're basically following the creek up to the falls. I think the portage from Pine to Canoe actually goes to the east initially. Basically I'm saying that the portage doesn't take you past Johnson Falls and I can't imagine carrying a canoe through the trail up to the falls.

Spur trail up to the Falls where portage starts on Pine end. Usually see some canoes laying there from people hiking up to Falls....10 minute hike maybe. Some grade roads on east end that weave around but all eventually drop down to Gunflint Trail

Thanks!