Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

Clearwater Loop - Rookie Texans
by sallyclemmons

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe
Entry Date: 07/25/2022
Entry & Exit Point: Clearwater Lake (EP 62)
Number of Days: 5
Group Size: 3
Day 2 of 5
Tuesday, July 26, 2022 Beautiful sunrise with mist coming off the water. We had a hot breakfast of biscuits and gravy and were paddling by 9. Mountain is a beautiful remote lake - we saw no people while there, which was the point. The paddle was easy to the portage to Moose - this was a tough portage with mud, swamp, and rocky trails. We had to double, which is a pain - try to avoid this if possible. By now we were settling into camp life and feeling relaxed with no set time for fulfilling responsibilities; enjoying the beautiful scenery and wildlife. Upon exiting the portage into Moose we saw our first of 13 bald eagles, and it was exciting for us! By the end of this trip we could recognize the majestic bird easily, but never tired of seeing them. It gives a sense of patriotism and pride in being an American. We could see that a storm was heading our way so hurried to set up camp on site #3 - a tarp is a necessity on a BWCA trip. Heavy rains for about 4 hours and then clear - we saw one group paddle eastward in the downpour. This site had amazing rocks at the landing and many loons and ducks. The rain cleared and we had a hot meal and then to bed with a good book - thankful for God’s creation and the opportunity to spend time in it with family.