Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

Kahnipiminanikok
by Kiporby

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe

Entry Date: 08/09/2009

Entry & Exit Point: Quetico

Number of Days: 6

Group Size: 4

Trip Introduction:

The Ojibway word for Kawnipi is calling my name. To leave the constrains of life that make me insane.

Her expansive bays beckon me to explore. Just be still thy big waters I implore.

Lurking within her dark waters are large eyes.

Waiting for just the right flutter of my lure passing by.

Three years it has been since last I was there.

Too long it has been to be without a care.

To the north we will go with our Bell Northwinds in tow.

Past loons I don't want to bother. And around mighty falls we will race.

Just be still thy big waters. I will leave thee without a trace.

My two brother-in-laws (Scott and Jeff) and good friend (Chuck) make our return voyage up the Fall's Chain to Kawnipi. Our last trip together was in 2006 and we were looking forward to the fishing opportunities that Kawnipi provides.

On past trips we were completely outfitted. This time we would rent only one canoe, a few sleeping bags, pads, and packs. This would our first time packing our own food and bringing most of our own gear.

The following is a photo journal of our experiences with brief commentary.

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Day 1 of 6

Sunday, August 09, 2009

The first day of our trip starts in the bunkhouse at Seagull Outfitters on the Gunflint Trail. We have arranged a 0700 tow to Hook Island on Saganaga Lake and plan to enter the Quetico using a Fall's Chain entry permit.

The weather is great and the waters of Cache Bay are calm making our crossing go quickly. After paying our camping fees and visiting with Janice at the ranger station we portage past Silver Falls (130 rods) and head up Saganagons Lake. Deadman's Portage (58 rods) is next and soon were are passing by the first set of falls.

Four Falls is a series of rapids and water falls that are split by an island in the middle. Two easy portages (56 and 20 rods) get you around this area.