Last year took the family on a loop from Sawbill (EP #38) up to Long Island via Ada/Cherokee then back down via Temperance/Kelly. The portages from Ada to Skoop, and from Skoop to Cherokee Creek were awful due to low water -- muddy and exhausting, and worse than I'd seen in prior years.

Going back this year with just my wife, for just a few days (and a promised "leisurely" trip), entering at EP #38 again. She's made me promise that I won't put her through that muck again. I'd really like to get up to Cherokee rather than heading to Kelly or Alton/Beth . . . but not if it's as bad as last year.

Any reports on what the portages from Ada to Skoop, and Skoop to Cherokee Creek are like this year?

We do that loop every year and I agree it was bad last year. Just got back a week ago and it was much better this year. The only part that still requires some mud walking is going into Cherokee creek, but if you are light enough you can float most of it, or you can probably let your wife float while you walk the canoe the first 100 feet. Enjoy!

You just have to bite the bullet, get out of the creek, and use the ankle busting portage/rock hop.

I’ve been through there at all water levels, and that little section between Ada and the short walk to Skoop is never enjoyable.