Monday, June 12, 2023 Beautiful calm morning with out a cloud in the sky brought the early morning sun under the edge of our tarp and filled the woods around us with surreal light. I love that as much as hearing loons call... As we cooked breakfast my first apperent planning / packing flaw presented itself. I had planned for bugs by treating clothing with permethrin, bringing a variety of repellents, having headnets, and making sure we had good protection for our sleeping arrangements. But I had brought nothing to help ease the discomfort of receiving many bites despite those efforts on the backs of hands and other areas easily accessed by our constant hungry companions. My son had had enough and his happy and eager attitude was heading south. I was concerned he would end a great trip with sour memories so I did my best to encourage and distract him as we broke camp and loaded the canoe. Dragging his hands in the cool water brought relief and by the time we hit the portage into Ham he was back to good spirits. Plus he had a promise of whatever he wanted from the DQ in Grand Marais to motivate him. An easterly breeze pushed us across Ham and with no traffic on the portages we soon arrived at our vehicle. As a trip bonus he spotted his first moose on our way down the Gunflint.

A few take aways from this trip. My son and I had a great time using mostly cheap heavy old gear. Not saying the new light weight stuff isn't great just saying you don't have to have it to enjoy this amazing place.

Watching the parade of groups go past our site on Cross Bay Lake made me realize there are a healthy percentage of people taking trips that don't know how to paddle very well. Take the time learn good technique before you go and you will have a much more enjoyable trip. Old Bill Mason films on YouTube are a place to start if want to learn the more old school methods.

Preparing for bugs includes what to do after you get bit up not just prevention methods.

When it comes to kids, ending on a high note is important. My son can't wait for our September trip to Ram. And just a day later he is telling everyone about the bugs and showing the fading marks like a badge of honor.

Be safe out there.