Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

Cherokee Loop-First solo
by Moosetrax

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe
Entry Date: 09/15/2020
Entry Point: Sawbill Lake (EP 38)
Exit Point: Sawbill Lake (EP 38)  
Number of Days: 6
Group Size: 1
Trip Introduction:
First time back to the BWCA in 34 years. I was 13 when I first visited and wanted to experience it again. Now with additional free time in my life I decided it was time to head back. It did not disappoint!
Day 1 of 6
Monday, September 14, 2020 The drive from the Twin Cities to the North Shore is always an enjoyable scenic drive. I had been planning this trip for a few months. Thanks to BWCA.com messageboards for all the information that made my trip a success! Reading others trip reports was valueable AND entertaining! After the beautiful drive and a short stop at Gooseberry Falls on Highway 61 I turned north when I reached the town of Tofte, MN. First wildlife encounter on county road 2 heading toward Sawbill. A bear cub alongside the road. Pretty cool. No traffic behind me so I slowed down to snap a shot of him before he spooked and darted off into the woods. About a 30 min drive from Tofte to Sawbill Campground and I was there. I stayed at Sawbill campground the first night so I could get an early start the next day as I was wanting to get to Cherokee Lake by early afternoon. Sawbill has a wonderful campground and was a perfect launching place for my expedition. I settled in to campsite #12 which had nice access to the lake. The next day the adventure would begin.