Friday, August 22, 2014 We had made the decision last night that we would move early this morning to get the long portages out of the way and make it to Alton early in the day to find a good site (hopefully still staying ahead of the predicted storms)

We were up at 5:30, made oatmeal, and broke camp to make our way across calm waters (again) to the 285 rod portage. We had decided this time two of us would take the canoes all the way across while the other two brought two packs half way then went back from the other two while the two who took canoes returned for the two packs at the half way point. Even the best laid plans are subject to change! We made it just short of half way and my partner and I decided to put down the canoes and return for two packs so we could have a break. Our other two partners went from one end to the other with the two large packs. Either way, the portage went very smooth and didn't feel so long (ok, yes it did).

Once on Beth, we saw that all of the sites were full, making us feel better about our decision to stop the day before. We continued our calm water paddle to the final portage of the day. Once again my partner and I grabbed canoes and headed across the portage. This time, we both went all the way without stopping; wow! This portage seemed so much easier today!

Once on Alton, we decided to head over to the east shore and work our way north and we scouted out the "perfect" site for the remainder of our days in the wilderness. The lake was once again calm and quiet.

We found the third site up the shoreline to be open and inviting. We stopped to check it out and fell in love with it for our home! The site has 3 landing areas, although only one of them is really one I would recommend. The site was huge and spread out, giving us lots of room to explore. The tent pads were elevated from the rest of the site, with three sets of steps created up to the "bedroom". We could have easily set up 4-5 tents in that area alone. Plus there were other areas off this area that would make good tent pads as well. The fire grate had a bonus couch made from logs which was oh-so-comfortable!! The south side of the site had good trees for the bear hang as well as hammocks. The north side also had access to the little bay. Both sides of the site were good for swimming (unless you are looking for a beach setting). The lat trail ran from the "bedroom" and was an average distance. We also found several trails to explore and loved this site!

First up once we unloaded the canoes for a swim/bath for all of us!

The couch at our campsite!
The steps up to the "bedroom". Our tents are set up on one side of the large tent pad area.