Work harder, not smarter. Had another wonderful stay in Rockwood's bunkhouse. Rented the Champlain Wenonah canoe for two large men and heavy packs. That canoe is a beast. Could have easily held another person and another 100# of gear. The staff at Rockwood is 2nd to none. Upon arrival, we felt at home. Got up at dawn, filled the canoe with our gear, and headed off to the Lizz Lake portage. We knew from experience that high season would be upon us, so we worked harder, not smarter, with the portages leading to Horseshoe. James carried the heavy pack and canoe on each portage, while I took the lighter pack and food bag. Double portaging was the rule, but our 2nd portage was quite easy. Once on Horseshoe, we were hoping to grab the Mondale site in Gaskin. Gaskin was just as busy as Caribou and Horseshoe. We took the site east of the Winchell portage and set up our basecamp. James rigged up a new water system, and we we eager to try it out since we did not pack water for our entry. Downed 3 quarts each. System was awesome - a water bag hung about 8 feet high flowing thru two filters with the last being a charcoal filter. The difference with this set up was we could back flush filters when the flow slowed. Rain tarp, tent, sleeping bags, and kitchen were next. Finally, we found a decent branch about 12 feet high to rig up the bear hanging system. 12 feet high and 6 feet away from the trunk and we are good. Our 25th anniversary trip was underway. Throughout the years, food improvement has been a constant. This year, we dehydrated 5 evening meals. Breakfast consists of powdered eggs, rehydrated hash browns, and pre-cooked bacon. Lunch is always a snack consisting of a nut mix and beef sticks - so we can stop and snack while out fishing. Gaskin Lake is a gem. Has it all - good fishing, easy day trip access to other points, and scenic views all day.~Poplar Lake, Lizz Lake, Caribou Lake, Horseshoe Lake, Gaskin Lake