Friday, June 19, 2015

The missed portage

13.5 miles, 5 portages, 300 meters

I sleep in today. The sky is clearing up and it is cool with temps starting out in the upper 40s and the sun feels good. A nice cool front. I dry some stuff out in the breeze. I am in no hurry to get going today as it should be a short day. I eat my last Raspberry cream muffin. Once dried out I am on my way. I fish a little along the way without much luck. I stopped for lunch at a campsite in the last bay before the portage to South Simeon. I had the wind in my favor so I drifted across the bay while casting a big spoon. After a while I switch back to my walleye rig and after a couple casts have one on…turns out to be a nice northern. By the time I release it I am at the south end of Simeon and close to the portage, not paying attention to the map or the GPS. I will make a long story short….I followed Simeon Creek and made 3 portages rather than crossing over the established one. I think there used to be a route going this way as there was a semblance of a path and a few sawn logs from long ago. You can see in my map below I spent a little time wandering around trying to find my way. I guess I got to see some of WCPP few others will see. :-)

Portaging over the falls out of South Simeon I slipped and landed on my hand. It made a nice gnash that bled a little but also bruised it. I would feel that for a few days. It reminded me of no matter how careful, slips can happen fast and when you are not expecting it. It is probably the biggest danger you face on a solo. After South Simeon you enter into Simeon Creek. This is a beautiful valley of jack pines. It is a narrow stream and parts of it had large boulders that took some work to get around. The map says seasonably shallow but I think the water level was ok. If you go this route make sure to stop and enjoy the beauty around you. Soon I am on Dunstan Lake and find a nice flat rock island site campsite. I enjoy a good swim, some good food and a very relaxing evening. I am 4 days in now and starting to get in a good routine. Despite the detour, a perfect day.
Ready to go, day 4
Taking a break and checking in
Nice Pike on Simeon Lake
Hmmm? That is not supposed to be there. Map must be wrong ;-)
Falls into South Simeon
Oops! Gotta be more careful
Simeon Creek, pretty place
Dunstan Lake Camp
Sunset....Life is Good
Zoom in of the missed portage