Thursday, July 27, 2026 Awoke to calm and cool with fog lifting on the bay and sunrise the way it is supposed to be. Quick oatmeal and link sausage breakfast and gather things for a day trip up to Eddy Falls and check out the burn area. Secure camp and slide into the water. It felt good. I had slept well and my internal systems were adapting to life in the BWCA. It felt good paddling up Knife checking out campsites from the boat (unless occupied) and a couple get out and wander around events. As I approached Eddy Falls I could see some burn, but from what I could see it left a few trees and overall not too bad. Eddy Falls was untouched and had a good flow of water from recent rain. A great spot for lunch and a selfie. I was watching my limits and decided to head back rather than explore farther. On the paddle back the wind picked up and became gusty. I maintained a sharp focus for changes in the lake surface and was successful in bracing when a gust would hit. The double blade paddle and a dozen years paddling made it all feel natural and a bit of challenge after quiet waters. I was glad to get back to campsite. Staying within limits is being tested on this trip and I have done a good job, other than the green pack being overweight. I feel confident travelling about 10 miles per day and know I could do more if needed. With that in mind I began breaking down camp and preparing for tomorrow's exit. I am feeling good about this trip and redefining my tripping experience. The gear finds its way back into packs and I start missing being here. A little read, journal, experience and ready for dinner. As the sun set and with full stomach and gear stowed for the night I enjoyed the evening fire awhile then climbed into the hammock with alarm set. The moon was scheduled to eclipse around 11 PM and I was up and out to appreciate it. I had scheduled a trip several years ago to watch a lunar eclipse and just as it started clouds then rain arrived. This time it was mostly clear. The occasional cloud allowed a brief near dark sky experience. Tired with a big day ahead I watched about forty-five minutes and was back to bed.