Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

Chasing a Fine and Pleasant Misery
by jbshotgun

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe
Entry Date: 09/13/2011
Entry & Exit Point: Brant Lake (EP 52)
Number of Days: 6
Group Size: 2
Day 6 of 6
Day Five Out we go, on the water at 7:20. Combined our packs and readjusted a bit. Only double portages this time. Portages went well and we found all the appropriate side portages. Made it out without getting muddy or wet, yeah. Was in the truck with the canoe appropriately strapped by 1:30. In my own bed by 9 pm. Now that it is over both CBS and I agree that we will DEFINATLY do it again, but we learned a lot of lessons. Prescout the area so you realize how far you really can go and that some of the best sign isn’t as deep as you think. Pack less, didn’t need ¾ of the food we brought. It’s only a week, eating like a king and actual cooking is severely overrated and only causes dishes. Pack less, because He-man only holds out for 400 rods of portage. Screw the water shoes, boots are fine. When hauling gear for hunting it will naturally be heavier than normal BWCA gear, so don’t bring the barge bring or rent a Kevlar. Trust what you know or practice with the new vehicle prior to the outset trip. Mud sucks. And finally if anyone says “well if the old guys can do it,” punch them squarely in the head. Hope you enjoyed our ride. Cut short by fire but fun, can"t wait for the next trip.