Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

of Wind, Waves & Men
by Kiporby

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe
Entry Date: 05/13/2009
Entry & Exit Point: Quetico
Number of Days: 9
Group Size: 3
Day 9 of 9
Thursday, May 21, 2009

With less than a mile to paddle and our tow pickup at noon we took our time leaving camp today. Figures Saganaga would be calmer on the last day. We arrived at the pick up spot on Rocky Point early. A few parties were dropped off on their way in and they were eager to hear about the fishing conditions and news of our travels.

Our tow arrived right on time. It was certainly a more relaxing trip back to civilization this time. Sunny and warm! Saganaga seemed so peaceful today. I guess she was glad to see us go or maybe it was just dumb luck. Who knows. [I personally think Kanoes must have done something to anger her. Probably one of his controversial posts :)] But that is how it goes on trips to the Boundary Waters. You can fight it and be bitter. Or you can take it in stride and consider yourself fortunate to have had the opportunity.

We arrived back at Seagull Outfitters and shared the stories of our travels with Debbie and Dave. It sounded like other paddlers had similar experiences with the weather as we did. We unloaded our gear, had a quick shower, and said our goodbyes.

It was a wonderful trip. As always, Debbie, Dave and staff did a fantastic job. They have a beautiful place up there and the service is always excellent.

A May trip is all whole different animal than a summer trip. The weather is more volatile and the conditions can be more challenging. The reward can be more solitude and a whole new perspective of the wild. Despite all the wind and all the waves and even the snow, I would do this trip again in a heartbeat. The Man Chain is a fantastic route. Beautiful, rugged, and primitive.

Of wind, waves and men AND warts. That pretty much sums it up.

A final word to my trip mates and new found friends, Jan and Kyle. It was my pleasure to cross paths with you on a muddy portages and share stories around warm campfires on cold May nights. I had a great time. I look forward to our next adventure. Til next time.