Nothing tastes better than s'mores around a campfire in the Boundary Waters. On a recent camping trip into the BWCA we brought along some different items to try making s'mores with. Andes mints, chocolate covered graham cookies and fancy chocolate. While they all tasted quite delicious nothing beats the plain old Hershey Bar between graham crackers with melted marshmallows oozing out the sides.
Do you have a favorite s'more recipe? Share it, please!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Boundary Waters Resort Turns Museum
It seems like yesterday when I stood at Chik-Wauk with Ralph and Bea Griffis who still spent their summers there and Jo Barnier, the previous Gunflint District Ranger. I remember telling Ralph and Bea how awesome it would be to preserve the beautiful lodge and asking Jo how we could get it listed on the National Historic Register. From that meeting on it has been a dream to turn Chik-Wauk into something everyone could enjoy.
When I brought up the idea of making Chik-Wauk into something more at a Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway Meeting everyone thought it was a great idea but too much for the Scenic Byway Committee to tackle. From that meeting a special meeting was planned for July 6, 2005 but I wasn’t able to attend it. It was determined to hold an open meeting to see if there would be enough interest from other people to take on a project of such magnitude. Lo and behold there were plenty of folks who were willing to commit to such an endeavor.
The group planned regular meetings and formed The Gunflint Trail Historical Society and decided to make Chik-Wauk the first project. In 2005 the year 2010 was determined to be the year Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center would open. It sounded like that year would never come but through the work of many dedicated volunteers and the contributions of generous members the time has finally come.
The tireless efforts of all of those involved can now be seen by the public. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center isopen daily and waiting for you to discover.
See Photos on Facebook
AP PRESS ALONG THE GUNFLINT TRAIL, Minn. -- A fishing lodge that closed in 1978 when the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness expanded reopened Sunday as Minnesota's newest -- and most remote -- history museum and nature center.
The Duluth News Tribune reported that Chik-Wauk Lodge was opening to the public Sunday -- the culmination of a five-year, more than $1 million effort by local residents to create a place to tell the colorful history of the Gunflint Trail.
That 60-mile, dead-end highway meanders north from Grand Marais on Lake Superior into the heart of the state's scenic lakes and forest region. It's an area thick with a history of native peoples, fur traders, mining speculators, loggers, fishermen and sportsmen and, more recently, recreation outfitters and cabin and bed-and-breakfast owners.
"It's an area where people at first learned all these skills for survival, and then turned it into recreation," said Sue Kerfoot, past president of the Gunflint Trail Historical Society and a driving force behind the new museum. "From dog sledding and fishing and hunting and canoeing in the 1800s, where you had to know how to make it ... to the people who stay at the resorts now."
The Gunflint Trail itself evolved from an Indian trail, to a tote road to supply mines that never produced any ore, to a logging road in the early 1900s. The route as it's known today developed in the early 1920s to give people access to pristine fishing lakes but wasn't paved until the 1970s.
It is on the bay of Saganaga Lake that Chik-Wauk sits, the filming site for the famous 1960s Hamm's Beer commercials featuring a canoe-riding grizzly bear.
The new museum is professionally designed, with hands-on exhibits and a trove of Gunflint Trail artifacts, memorabilia and history. There's a diorama of local wildlife and trees, an interactive exhibit about the Voyageurs fur trade and exhibits on wildfires, local residents, logging, geology and mining, and Indian history.
When I brought up the idea of making Chik-Wauk into something more at a Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway Meeting everyone thought it was a great idea but too much for the Scenic Byway Committee to tackle. From that meeting a special meeting was planned for July 6, 2005 but I wasn’t able to attend it. It was determined to hold an open meeting to see if there would be enough interest from other people to take on a project of such magnitude. Lo and behold there were plenty of folks who were willing to commit to such an endeavor.
The group planned regular meetings and formed The Gunflint Trail Historical Society and decided to make Chik-Wauk the first project. In 2005 the year 2010 was determined to be the year Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center would open. It sounded like that year would never come but through the work of many dedicated volunteers and the contributions of generous members the time has finally come.
The tireless efforts of all of those involved can now be seen by the public. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center isopen daily and waiting for you to discover.
See Photos on Facebook
AP PRESS ALONG THE GUNFLINT TRAIL, Minn. -- A fishing lodge that closed in 1978 when the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness expanded reopened Sunday as Minnesota's newest -- and most remote -- history museum and nature center.
The Duluth News Tribune reported that Chik-Wauk Lodge was opening to the public Sunday -- the culmination of a five-year, more than $1 million effort by local residents to create a place to tell the colorful history of the Gunflint Trail.
That 60-mile, dead-end highway meanders north from Grand Marais on Lake Superior into the heart of the state's scenic lakes and forest region. It's an area thick with a history of native peoples, fur traders, mining speculators, loggers, fishermen and sportsmen and, more recently, recreation outfitters and cabin and bed-and-breakfast owners.
"It's an area where people at first learned all these skills for survival, and then turned it into recreation," said Sue Kerfoot, past president of the Gunflint Trail Historical Society and a driving force behind the new museum. "From dog sledding and fishing and hunting and canoeing in the 1800s, where you had to know how to make it ... to the people who stay at the resorts now."
The Gunflint Trail itself evolved from an Indian trail, to a tote road to supply mines that never produced any ore, to a logging road in the early 1900s. The route as it's known today developed in the early 1920s to give people access to pristine fishing lakes but wasn't paved until the 1970s.
It is on the bay of Saganaga Lake that Chik-Wauk sits, the filming site for the famous 1960s Hamm's Beer commercials featuring a canoe-riding grizzly bear.
The new museum is professionally designed, with hands-on exhibits and a trove of Gunflint Trail artifacts, memorabilia and history. There's a diorama of local wildlife and trees, an interactive exhibit about the Voyageurs fur trade and exhibits on wildfires, local residents, logging, geology and mining, and Indian history.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Don't Get Lost in the Boundary Waters
There are a number of things a person can do to stay safe in the woods. Unfortunately there are just as many things that can get you into trouble.
No Fish Tale: Lost in the Ontario Wilderness Published: Saturday, July 03, 2010, 9:19 AM Updated: Saturday, July 03, 2010, 9:23 AM
D'Arcy Egan, The Plain Dealer
Chip Tighe of Highland Heights and two fishing friends made the journey to Ontario’s Tornados Lodge to fish on Lake Arthure a couple of weeks ago with two goals in mind. Catch big northern pike and don’t get lost.
Again.
"When we arrived, lodge manager Nancy Wice said she hoped there wouldn't be 'an incident' this year," said Tighe, 49, a physician. "She's a loving, sweet lady with big blue eyes and blond hair, and truly cares about the fishermen."
The Tornados Lodge and its many cabins are in Port Loring, south of Sudbury and east of Georgian Bay along the Pickerel River. Not exactly northern bush country, but still a wild place, as Tighe and his buddies discovered on their 2009 adventure.
"After we settled in last year, we headed to Lake Arthur," said Tighe. "Dan DePalma and Chris Sullivan, both good fishermen, are from the Stoneboro, Pa. area. Dan has been a friend for more than 20 years, but I'd just met his friend, Chris.
After a short boat ride across Toad Lake, the trio hiked a scruffy trail through wild fields and forest to Lake Arthur. Another boat, motor and fuel were waiting, launching a week of northern pike and bass fishing.
Waiting on the shoreline of Lake Arthur for his friends to catch up, Tighe made a few casts. More importantly, he put the landing net down.
Once on the water and trolling for trophy pike, they discovered the net had been left behind.
After a good day of fishing on Friday, they returned to their portage point at about 7 p.m. While DePalma and Sullivan headed down the trail, Tighe wandered about in search of the landing net.
"Soon, all of the trees and bushes looked the same," said Tighe. He figured if he headed east, while his friends hiked north, he'd walk right to the trail and connect with them.
"That was a big mistake," said Tighe. Two hours later he was mired in a boggy swap with water up to his knees - and way over his boots. At 10 p.m. it was getting darker, and he'd already stumbled and fallen a few times.
When his friends told Wice that Tighe had not returned, she shifted into overdrive Friday night and began the rescue operation. Helicopters and search crews went into action at first light on Saturday morning.
At midnight, Tighe tugged on his head net. He was wearing a Mayfield soccer team jacket, long pants torn during a fall and wet boots. He slathered on Vicks VapoRub and used dryer sheets to thwart the bugs. Mosquitoes tormented him as he fitfully tried to rest.
Just after 4 a.m. on Saturday, Tighe was back on his feet. Walking as fast as he could, Tighe again yelled for DePalma and Sullivan.
"It was getting to be a spiritual experience," said Tighe. Until he bumped into a black bear.
"All I saw was a black, rubbery nose just a few feet away," said Tighe. "I looked down, and there was bear poop everywhere. It was the scaredest I'd ever been in my life."
Tighe found signs of civilization, including an abandoned maple syrup operation and an old truck plow, but no trails.
"At 10:30 a.m., I heard a helicopter," he said. Tighe scrambled to a clearing near a lake, the sound of the helicopter firing his adrenalin. He spotted a blue-and-white Ontario Provincial Police helicopter, and wildly waved his boat paddle.
In minutes, Tighe was aboard and gulping a bottle of water.
"The OPP guys were great," said Tighe. "One told me that I was really lucky. He said he doesn't mind rescue missions that turn out like this. He minds recovery missions that don't turn out as well."
Tighe did a lot of hiking, but didn't go very far. He estimates he covered about 15 miles of Canadian wilderness, often wandering in circles. He was found about four miles from where he was last seen by his friends.
Tighe wasn't afraid to head back to Lake Arthur in June.
"All three of us were back. We made sure we didn't split up when hiking the trails," said Tighe. "I also wore a visible orange jacket, not black, and made sure I had a safety kit and compass on me, not in my tackle box. I also carried a Bic lighter. They can see smoke from miles away up there."
No Fish Tale: Lost in the Ontario Wilderness Published: Saturday, July 03, 2010, 9:19 AM Updated: Saturday, July 03, 2010, 9:23 AM
D'Arcy Egan, The Plain Dealer
Chip Tighe of Highland Heights and two fishing friends made the journey to Ontario’s Tornados Lodge to fish on Lake Arthure a couple of weeks ago with two goals in mind. Catch big northern pike and don’t get lost.
Again.
"When we arrived, lodge manager Nancy Wice said she hoped there wouldn't be 'an incident' this year," said Tighe, 49, a physician. "She's a loving, sweet lady with big blue eyes and blond hair, and truly cares about the fishermen."
The Tornados Lodge and its many cabins are in Port Loring, south of Sudbury and east of Georgian Bay along the Pickerel River. Not exactly northern bush country, but still a wild place, as Tighe and his buddies discovered on their 2009 adventure.
"After we settled in last year, we headed to Lake Arthur," said Tighe. "Dan DePalma and Chris Sullivan, both good fishermen, are from the Stoneboro, Pa. area. Dan has been a friend for more than 20 years, but I'd just met his friend, Chris.
After a short boat ride across Toad Lake, the trio hiked a scruffy trail through wild fields and forest to Lake Arthur. Another boat, motor and fuel were waiting, launching a week of northern pike and bass fishing.
Waiting on the shoreline of Lake Arthur for his friends to catch up, Tighe made a few casts. More importantly, he put the landing net down.
Once on the water and trolling for trophy pike, they discovered the net had been left behind.
After a good day of fishing on Friday, they returned to their portage point at about 7 p.m. While DePalma and Sullivan headed down the trail, Tighe wandered about in search of the landing net.
"Soon, all of the trees and bushes looked the same," said Tighe. He figured if he headed east, while his friends hiked north, he'd walk right to the trail and connect with them.
"That was a big mistake," said Tighe. Two hours later he was mired in a boggy swap with water up to his knees - and way over his boots. At 10 p.m. it was getting darker, and he'd already stumbled and fallen a few times.
When his friends told Wice that Tighe had not returned, she shifted into overdrive Friday night and began the rescue operation. Helicopters and search crews went into action at first light on Saturday morning.
At midnight, Tighe tugged on his head net. He was wearing a Mayfield soccer team jacket, long pants torn during a fall and wet boots. He slathered on Vicks VapoRub and used dryer sheets to thwart the bugs. Mosquitoes tormented him as he fitfully tried to rest.
Just after 4 a.m. on Saturday, Tighe was back on his feet. Walking as fast as he could, Tighe again yelled for DePalma and Sullivan.
"It was getting to be a spiritual experience," said Tighe. Until he bumped into a black bear.
"All I saw was a black, rubbery nose just a few feet away," said Tighe. "I looked down, and there was bear poop everywhere. It was the scaredest I'd ever been in my life."
Tighe found signs of civilization, including an abandoned maple syrup operation and an old truck plow, but no trails.
"At 10:30 a.m., I heard a helicopter," he said. Tighe scrambled to a clearing near a lake, the sound of the helicopter firing his adrenalin. He spotted a blue-and-white Ontario Provincial Police helicopter, and wildly waved his boat paddle.
In minutes, Tighe was aboard and gulping a bottle of water.
"The OPP guys were great," said Tighe. "One told me that I was really lucky. He said he doesn't mind rescue missions that turn out like this. He minds recovery missions that don't turn out as well."
Tighe did a lot of hiking, but didn't go very far. He estimates he covered about 15 miles of Canadian wilderness, often wandering in circles. He was found about four miles from where he was last seen by his friends.
Tighe wasn't afraid to head back to Lake Arthur in June.
"All three of us were back. We made sure we didn't split up when hiking the trails," said Tighe. "I also wore a visible orange jacket, not black, and made sure I had a safety kit and compass on me, not in my tackle box. I also carried a Bic lighter. They can see smoke from miles away up there."
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Say No To Hitchhikers
I usually stop to pick up people who are hitchhiking on the Gunflint Trail but I urge you to not do the same with those aquatic hitchhikers. Keep them off of the Gunflint Trail and out of our lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
“Pick it or Ticket.” That’s what will happen if people don’t do their part to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species, according to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
DNR conservation officers and watercraft inspectors will step-up enforcement of invasive species law over the Fourth of July weekend. They will also be out educating boaters about a new law that goes into effect July 1 requiring boaters to now remove the plug and drain water before leaving any lake and river in Minnesota.
“Our lakes and rivers are too important to take for granted,” explained Larry Kramka, DNR assistant commissioner. “Boaters need to be accountable and personally responsible to prevent the further spread of aquatic invasives.”
The water draining law is intended to help prevent the spread of fish diseases such as VHS, and invasive species such as zebra mussels and spiny waterfleas that cannot be seen when free floating in the water in early life stages.
Boaters are required by law to:
Remove aquatic plants and zebra mussels from boats and trailers.
Drain all water, including pulling the drain plug, open water draining devises, and draining bilges and live wells.
Drain bait buckets when exiting lakes that have been designated as infested with spiny water flea or zebra mussels. Anglers can keep unused bait when leaving infested waters if they replace the water with tap or spring.
The increased enforcement efforts over the holiday weekend will include an increased presence at public water accesses at infested waters where officers will look closely for violators of existing laws who could face fines from $50 up to $1,000.
Minnesota’s water resources are threatened by numerous aquatic invasive species such as the zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil and spiny waterfleas. These species could be easily spread within the state if citizens, businesses and visitors don’t take the necessary steps to contain them.
The zebra mussel populations currently in Lake Mille Lacs, Alexandria chain of lakes
(Le Homme Dieu, Carlos, and Geneva), Pelican Lake in Otter Tail County, Prior Lake in Scott County and Rice Lake near Brainerd are a particular concern as they can be key sources for zebra mussel spread.
For more information about aquatic invasive species, visit http://www.mndnr.gov/.
“Pick it or Ticket.” That’s what will happen if people don’t do their part to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species, according to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
DNR conservation officers and watercraft inspectors will step-up enforcement of invasive species law over the Fourth of July weekend. They will also be out educating boaters about a new law that goes into effect July 1 requiring boaters to now remove the plug and drain water before leaving any lake and river in Minnesota.
“Our lakes and rivers are too important to take for granted,” explained Larry Kramka, DNR assistant commissioner. “Boaters need to be accountable and personally responsible to prevent the further spread of aquatic invasives.”
The water draining law is intended to help prevent the spread of fish diseases such as VHS, and invasive species such as zebra mussels and spiny waterfleas that cannot be seen when free floating in the water in early life stages.
Boaters are required by law to:
Remove aquatic plants and zebra mussels from boats and trailers.
Drain all water, including pulling the drain plug, open water draining devises, and draining bilges and live wells.
Drain bait buckets when exiting lakes that have been designated as infested with spiny water flea or zebra mussels. Anglers can keep unused bait when leaving infested waters if they replace the water with tap or spring.
The increased enforcement efforts over the holiday weekend will include an increased presence at public water accesses at infested waters where officers will look closely for violators of existing laws who could face fines from $50 up to $1,000.
Minnesota’s water resources are threatened by numerous aquatic invasive species such as the zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil and spiny waterfleas. These species could be easily spread within the state if citizens, businesses and visitors don’t take the necessary steps to contain them.
The zebra mussel populations currently in Lake Mille Lacs, Alexandria chain of lakes
(Le Homme Dieu, Carlos, and Geneva), Pelican Lake in Otter Tail County, Prior Lake in Scott County and Rice Lake near Brainerd are a particular concern as they can be key sources for zebra mussel spread.
For more information about aquatic invasive species, visit http://www.mndnr.gov/.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Walleye Wonderland
If you're not going to catch and release that wonderful walleye you just caught in the Boundary Waters then what should you do with it? Clean it and eat it! Here's a great video on how to do just that.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Cell Phones in the Boundary Waters?
There won't be cell phones in the Boundary Waters if the Friends of the Boundary Waters get their way. They are have filed suit against AT & T to prevent a new cell tower from going up near Ely, MN. This cell tower would be visible from numerous lakes in the BWCA and would allow wilderness travelers to use their cell phones while out canoe camping. Not something I'm interested in seeing or hearing when I'm out enjoying my solitude.
AP- MINNEAPOLIS -- An environmental group is suing to stop AT&T from building a 450-foot cell phone tower on a high ridge just outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
The Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness says it would tower 600 feet over the landscape and be visible from several lakes within the BWCA. And it says the tower will be illuminated day and night with strobe and beacon lighting.
The group filed Tuesday for an injunction in Hennepin County District Court to block construction of the tower, which it says is already under way.
An AT&T spokeswoman said she didn't have enough information about the lawsuit to comment.
The Lake County Board approved the tower near Ely in February. Board member Thomas Clifford says commissioners looked "very cautiously" at the project, but people want better cell phone coverage.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP- MINNEAPOLIS -- An environmental group is suing to stop AT&T from building a 450-foot cell phone tower on a high ridge just outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
The Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness says it would tower 600 feet over the landscape and be visible from several lakes within the BWCA. And it says the tower will be illuminated day and night with strobe and beacon lighting.
The group filed Tuesday for an injunction in Hennepin County District Court to block construction of the tower, which it says is already under way.
An AT&T spokeswoman said she didn't have enough information about the lawsuit to comment.
The Lake County Board approved the tower near Ely in February. Board member Thomas Clifford says commissioners looked "very cautiously" at the project, but people want better cell phone coverage.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Monday, June 28, 2010
Lost Hikers in the BWCA
The hikers who were lost in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area overnight have now been found.
Lisa Baumann Duluth News and Tribune
Although a search had been mounted by 35 experts with two bloodhounds, it was a man and woman out fishing Friday morning who found three hikers missing overnight in the Lake Vermilion area of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The two anglers fishing on Oriniack Lake came across the missing hikers by chance about 10 a.m., according to St. Louis County Undersheriff David Phillips. The three men, who were camping on Trout Lake, apparently took an overgrown path through the woods between 2 and 3 p.m. Thursday from Trout Lake in the direction of Oriniack Lake, and didn’t return. A fourth camper, who had remained at the campsite, became concerned and called for help about 7 p.m. Thursday. Zachary Nathaniel Strahan, 29, of Minneapolis and twin brothers Richard Alan Olsen, 26, of Minneapolis and William James Olsen, 26, of New Brighton, Minn., were spotted about one mile west of the campsite “as the crow flies,” Phillips said. “They weren’t dressed for an overnight deal,” he said. “With the bad weather in the region, there was some real concern for their welfare.” Phillips said the one thing they had going for them was their friend, Jeff Olson, who stayed behind with two others in their group and used his cell phone to call 911. The men were wearing jeans, T-shirts and light footwear and did not have cell phones or a compass. They did have matches and were able to start a fire near the shore of Oriniack Lake, where they spent the night, said Tom Crossmon, St. Louis County Search and Rescue Squad captain. No one was injured. “It was a long night for them,” Crossmon said. “Everybody was tired, dirty and wet.” The men were in great spirits, however, when rescue squads greeted them near the campground. “They offered to make us lunch, and those left behind talked about keeping the others on leashes,” Crossmon said. “They were excited to continue their trip.” Area rescue squads used Moccasin Point Resort on Lake Vermilion as a staging area, Phillips said. A Lake County unit assisted, as did the U.S. Forest Service.
Lisa Baumann Duluth News and Tribune
Although a search had been mounted by 35 experts with two bloodhounds, it was a man and woman out fishing Friday morning who found three hikers missing overnight in the Lake Vermilion area of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The two anglers fishing on Oriniack Lake came across the missing hikers by chance about 10 a.m., according to St. Louis County Undersheriff David Phillips. The three men, who were camping on Trout Lake, apparently took an overgrown path through the woods between 2 and 3 p.m. Thursday from Trout Lake in the direction of Oriniack Lake, and didn’t return. A fourth camper, who had remained at the campsite, became concerned and called for help about 7 p.m. Thursday. Zachary Nathaniel Strahan, 29, of Minneapolis and twin brothers Richard Alan Olsen, 26, of Minneapolis and William James Olsen, 26, of New Brighton, Minn., were spotted about one mile west of the campsite “as the crow flies,” Phillips said. “They weren’t dressed for an overnight deal,” he said. “With the bad weather in the region, there was some real concern for their welfare.” Phillips said the one thing they had going for them was their friend, Jeff Olson, who stayed behind with two others in their group and used his cell phone to call 911. The men were wearing jeans, T-shirts and light footwear and did not have cell phones or a compass. They did have matches and were able to start a fire near the shore of Oriniack Lake, where they spent the night, said Tom Crossmon, St. Louis County Search and Rescue Squad captain. No one was injured. “It was a long night for them,” Crossmon said. “Everybody was tired, dirty and wet.” The men were in great spirits, however, when rescue squads greeted them near the campground. “They offered to make us lunch, and those left behind talked about keeping the others on leashes,” Crossmon said. “They were excited to continue their trip.” Area rescue squads used Moccasin Point Resort on Lake Vermilion as a staging area, Phillips said. A Lake County unit assisted, as did the U.S. Forest Service.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Hiking on the Gunflint Trail
The Magnetic Rock Trail is a favorite of those who visit the Gunflint Trail. I’m not sure if it is the ability of the rock to send a compass needle whirling or the fact the rock is a dependable landmark in the ever-changing landscape that makes the trail one of the most visited on the Gunflint Trail. I have enjoyed the Magnetic Rock Trail in spring, summer, fall and winter and invite you to come and do the same.
The Magnetic Rock Trail is a relatively short and easy 3 mile round-trip hike that is easily accessed from the Gunflint Trail. The terrain is not overly challenging and the views it affords are spectacular, especially since the Ham Lake Fire. Fire has a way of changing the way things look and how far you can see into the woods.
New sights can be seen where the fire cleared the view. Where the trail was once canopied by towering pines a pond can be seen just a short distance off of the trail. Where birch trees previously lined the path you can now see the hills and valleys that were once obscured. Large slabs of granite are now exposed to the human eye making one wonder how vegetation could survive and thrive on such limited topsoil.
The 60-foot magnetic rock at the end of the Magnetic Rock Trail will remain as it has since the glacial period. There it will stand for years to come for all to enjoy the phenomena of its magnetism. Its familiarity will be a constant within the ever-changing landscape of the woods and waters that embrace it.
The Magnetic Rock Trail is a relatively short and easy 3 mile round-trip hike that is easily accessed from the Gunflint Trail. The terrain is not overly challenging and the views it affords are spectacular, especially since the Ham Lake Fire. Fire has a way of changing the way things look and how far you can see into the woods.
New sights can be seen where the fire cleared the view. Where the trail was once canopied by towering pines a pond can be seen just a short distance off of the trail. Where birch trees previously lined the path you can now see the hills and valleys that were once obscured. Large slabs of granite are now exposed to the human eye making one wonder how vegetation could survive and thrive on such limited topsoil.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Going to Canada, eh?
If you are planning to paddle in Canada this year then you'll need to make sure you have all of the proper documents.
Remote Area Border Crossing Permit
In order to enter into Canada you must have a Remote Area Border Crossing Permit. This permit is only for residents of Canada and the United States and can only be used in designated areas such as the wilderness border of the Boundary Waters and Quetico Park.
The permit is good for one year and takes 3-6 weeks to be processed. Please allow plenty of time for mailing. A $30.00 Non-Refundable Processing Fee payable by Visa, Mastercard or Discover is due at the time of application. Applications can be found at this website.
An entire family can be listed on the same permit as long as the applicant's spouse or partner has been living with the applicant for one or more years. Their dependent children under 22 years of age as well as any adopted children may be listed with legal proof of adoption.
Leaders of special groups may fill out a Group Manifest Form for the youth under age 18.
If you have been convicted of a felony such as driving while under the influence or if you are not a citizen of Canada or the United States then you will not be granted a RABCP. You may go to this website to find out more information about being granted a pardon.
Passport, Passport Card or One of the Following
On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home from Canada will be required to present one of these travel documents: US Passport, US Passport Card, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program Card. To find out more about Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program Cards visit this website.
Purchasing a Passport Card will allow you to travel to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and some of the Caribbean. It is less expensive than a Passport and takes approximately 3 weeks to process. It is good for 10 years for an adult and 5 years for a minor under the age of 16; just like a Passport. The cost for a minor to apply is $35.00 and the cost for a first-time adult applicant is $45.00. If you already have a passport and wish to purchase a Passport Card then the cost is only $20.00.
To save time and trouble at the issuing agency be sure to read over information from this website: Special documentation is needed to apply and when applying for your children they must be present with you.
If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen under the age of 16 then you will need to present the original or copy of your birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card in order to apply for a passport.
Groups of U.S. and Canadian children ages 16 through 18, when traveling with a school or religious group, social organization, or sports team, will be able to enter under adult supervision with originals or copies of their birth certificates or other proof of citizenship.
I-68
You can return to the United States from Canada via a watercraft with or without an I-68. An I-68 is valid for one year and costs $16.00 for an individual or $32.00 for a family. If you have an I-68 and are returning from Canada you can call to check in with a Customs Officer. If you do not have an I-68 then you must stop and check-in in person.
Customs is the I-68 issuing agency and the Border Patrol is the enforcement agency. Any and all questions concerning issuance of the I-68 should be directed to, Customs and Border Protection, Pigeon River Port of Entry (218) 475-2244 or 217-475-0060.
From May through October the Coast Guard Station in Grand Marais, MN will hold the Office of Field Operations. The office will be open from 9-5pm with 1-2 people on staff. People with an I-68 will call this office upon returning from Canada. This will also be where people can stop and apply for the I-68. As of June 1, 2009 a passport or passport card will be necessary to apply for an I-68.
You may also apply for an I-68 anywhere there is an International Port of Entry such as an International Airport.
Remote Area Border Crossing Permit
In order to enter into Canada you must have a Remote Area Border Crossing Permit. This permit is only for residents of Canada and the United States and can only be used in designated areas such as the wilderness border of the Boundary Waters and Quetico Park.
The permit is good for one year and takes 3-6 weeks to be processed. Please allow plenty of time for mailing. A $30.00 Non-Refundable Processing Fee payable by Visa, Mastercard or Discover is due at the time of application. Applications can be found at this website.
An entire family can be listed on the same permit as long as the applicant's spouse or partner has been living with the applicant for one or more years. Their dependent children under 22 years of age as well as any adopted children may be listed with legal proof of adoption.
Leaders of special groups may fill out a Group Manifest Form for the youth under age 18.
If you have been convicted of a felony such as driving while under the influence or if you are not a citizen of Canada or the United States then you will not be granted a RABCP. You may go to this website to find out more information about being granted a pardon.
Passport, Passport Card or One of the Following
On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home from Canada will be required to present one of these travel documents: US Passport, US Passport Card, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program Card. To find out more about Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program Cards visit this website.
Purchasing a Passport Card will allow you to travel to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and some of the Caribbean. It is less expensive than a Passport and takes approximately 3 weeks to process. It is good for 10 years for an adult and 5 years for a minor under the age of 16; just like a Passport. The cost for a minor to apply is $35.00 and the cost for a first-time adult applicant is $45.00. If you already have a passport and wish to purchase a Passport Card then the cost is only $20.00.
To save time and trouble at the issuing agency be sure to read over information from this website: Special documentation is needed to apply and when applying for your children they must be present with you.
If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen under the age of 16 then you will need to present the original or copy of your birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card in order to apply for a passport.
Groups of U.S. and Canadian children ages 16 through 18, when traveling with a school or religious group, social organization, or sports team, will be able to enter under adult supervision with originals or copies of their birth certificates or other proof of citizenship.
I-68
You can return to the United States from Canada via a watercraft with or without an I-68. An I-68 is valid for one year and costs $16.00 for an individual or $32.00 for a family. If you have an I-68 and are returning from Canada you can call to check in with a Customs Officer. If you do not have an I-68 then you must stop and check-in in person.
Customs is the I-68 issuing agency and the Border Patrol is the enforcement agency. Any and all questions concerning issuance of the I-68 should be directed to, Customs and Border Protection, Pigeon River Port of Entry (218) 475-2244 or 217-475-0060.
From May through October the Coast Guard Station in Grand Marais, MN will hold the Office of Field Operations. The office will be open from 9-5pm with 1-2 people on staff. People with an I-68 will call this office upon returning from Canada. This will also be where people can stop and apply for the I-68. As of June 1, 2009 a passport or passport card will be necessary to apply for an I-68.
You may also apply for an I-68 anywhere there is an International Port of Entry such as an International Airport.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Boundary Waters Family
We're a Boundary Waters Family and we want to help make your family a BWCA family too. We have the perfect package to introduce families to the wonderful world of canoe camping in the wilderness. Join us for a family vacation of a lifetime on the Gunflint Trail.
If you're more comfortable in a cabin then we can help you experience the Boundary Waters by day. Don't forget about all of the activities happening on the Gunflint Trail this summer.
Every Thursday from now until the end of August the Becoming a Boundary Waters Family group and the Superior National Forest will be presenting a seminar. The same seminar will be given on the Gunflint Trail and in town at the Rec Park on the same day. At 3:00 PM you can listen at Chik-Wauk at the end of the Trail and at 7:00 PM the presentation will take place in Grand Marais. You can learn about topics such as orchids, fish, moose and more; there's a different topic every week.
Don't forget about the chance to paddle with each of the outfitters this summer. Monday thru Friday from now until July 16th you can learn about the BWCA from a different outfitter each day. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about Becoming a Boundary Waters Family from Voyageur Canoe Outfitters every Monday at 1:00 PM.
If you're more comfortable in a cabin then we can help you experience the Boundary Waters by day. Don't forget about all of the activities happening on the Gunflint Trail this summer.
Every Thursday from now until the end of August the Becoming a Boundary Waters Family group and the Superior National Forest will be presenting a seminar. The same seminar will be given on the Gunflint Trail and in town at the Rec Park on the same day. At 3:00 PM you can listen at Chik-Wauk at the end of the Trail and at 7:00 PM the presentation will take place in Grand Marais. You can learn about topics such as orchids, fish, moose and more; there's a different topic every week.
Don't forget about the chance to paddle with each of the outfitters this summer. Monday thru Friday from now until July 16th you can learn about the BWCA from a different outfitter each day. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about Becoming a Boundary Waters Family from Voyageur Canoe Outfitters every Monday at 1:00 PM.
Friday, June 18, 2010
BWCA for Women Only
People who take wilderness canoe trips know how incredible of an experience it can be. They come back to civilization feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and recharged from the peace and serenity of the natural world. While a single woman may not feel comfortable venturing out into the woods alone, the thought of doing it with a group of women may sound very appealing. The sense of security and camaraderie that comes from traveling together connects us to others and helps us to better understand ourselves in the process.
Itinerary
You will arrive at Voyageur Canoe Outfitters on the first day of your session to meet the rest of your group and discuss your trip. After your routing session, you will pack up your personal articles and depart for 3 nights of camping and 4 days of paddling in the wilderness. Group participants will return to Voyageur on the 4th day and will spend the night in one of our luxurious Lodge Hideaway units to celebrate their accomplishment. Enjoy breakfast with us in the morning in our main lodge before you head for home with wonderful memories of your wilderness canoe camping experience.
Package
This package has been designed for women by women. It is a special menu that doesn't require hours of time cooking over a campfire. We figure we women do plenty of cooking at home! This complete outfitting package includes everything you need for a wilderness canoe camping adventure. We provide sleeping bags, sleeping pads, tents, packs, food, canoe, lifevests, paddles and everything you need. You just bring your personal clothing, toiletry items and fishing gear if you want to fish. We send you a trip preparation packet prior to your trip to help you in the packing of your personal items. In an effort to bring awareness to women's health and to promote an active outdoor lifestyle we include a Pink Paddle made by Wenonah Canoe designed by owner of Voyageur Canoe Outfitter's Sue Prom. This is a lightweight, bent shaft paddle made from graphite that you will get to bring home with you. Sessions 2010
We are offering four scheduled Women's Trips for the summer of 2010. Each session features an easy route suitable for beginning paddlers and costs $500. The Simple Package focuses on no cooking and 3-4 hours of paddling a day, the Boundary Waters School will prepare you to lead your own trip into the wilderness, the Wellness trip will combine simple stretches and meditations to enhance your health and the 50 and over trip is for women in that age group.
SIGN UP TODAY!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
Absolutely Beautiful
Some of the Voyageur Crew camped out last night and said it was absolutely beautiful. The lake was calm, the weather gorgeous and the stars amazing. Oh how I wish I could have been with them.
The forecast calls for some nice weather this week. Why not plan a canoe trip in the Boundary Waters? Or come and stay with us at Voyageur since we have openings in our cabins.
The fishing reports have been great and the bugs are minimal. We'd love to see you at the end of the Gunflint Trail!
The forecast calls for some nice weather this week. Why not plan a canoe trip in the Boundary Waters? Or come and stay with us at Voyageur since we have openings in our cabins.
The fishing reports have been great and the bugs are minimal. We'd love to see you at the end of the Gunflint Trail!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Seagull Saganaga Loop
Seagull, Alpine, Red Rock, Saganaga Loop
Boundary Waters Entry Point 54 Seagull Lake or Entry Point 55 Saganaga Lake
Minimum Trip Length 3 Days
When time and experience are limited the Seagull, Alpine, Red Rock, Saganaga route is a great choice. The close proximity to two entry points as well as the great fishing makes this a popular route. It is a good option for those who want to get a taste of the BWCA experience without too much of a challenge in the way of navigating and portaging.
The loop can begin and end at our dock by entering into Saganaga Lake or entering into Seagull Lake. You can leave from our dock and paddle south to Seagull Lake via Gull Lake and traverse the falls at the Trail’s End Campground or walk the short campground loop from one boat landing to the other. Or if you prefer we can transport you to one of the two landings into Seagull Lake; we primarily use the one at the Trail’s End Campground. It’s just a short 2 mile drive to the landing which bypasses the 38 rod portage from Gull into Seagull Lake.
Before you get to Seagull Lake you will paddle the narrow channel and then pass through a narrow gap. The Seagull River Nature Trail follows the channel out to the point where paddlers can choose to get out on the left shoreline and portage around the chute. The water level can make this area a little tricky but if you are prepared then you should be fine.
Seagull is a favorite lake of many who like to have easy access to wilderness campsites without any portaging. The scenery is gorgeous with over 100 islands over an acre in size and excellent fishing. You can read more about Seagull Lake by following this link. Don’t miss the hike to the top of the Palisades as it is definitely worth the view.
With map in hand you can successfully navigate your way around the islands and to the portage leading into Alpine Lake. The best portage is the most popular and is 105 rods in length. There’s a nice sandy landing and the portage is well maintained and easy to traverse. There’s another route shown on the map but it is not recommended. It takes you through a river that is not navigable and there aren’t any portages around it. People who make the mistake of taking that route risk the twisting of ankles and worse due to the slippery, rocky terrain.
If you want to take the less traveled route then choose the portage to Rog Lake. This is a quiet little lake that contains brook trout worth fishing for. The portage into Rog from Seagull is 60 rods and out of Rog into Alpine is only 20 rods.
Alpine Lake has a number of islands in the middle of the lake that make the lake appear smaller in size then it actually is. These islands provide excellent structure with all of their rocky outcroppings. Smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye like to hang out in the narrow waterways surrounding the islands. There are over 20 campsites to choose from on Alpine Lake so don’t settle for the most popular ones right on the beaten path. While they are beautiful sites there are other more private sites if you want to avoid traffic from the portages.
Red Rock Lake lies to the north of Alpine via a short 50 rod portage. Great fishing awaits anglers and moose regularly appear around the 8 campsites there. It’s a pretty lake with lots of shallow bays for the hungry moose to feed in and trees that eagles like to nest in.
There’s a short portage into Saganaga Lake where a towboat can come to pick you up at the end of your trip. When the water level is high you can paddle through to Red Rock Bay instead of portaging the 10 rods around it. Red Rock Bay is one of the most beautiful areas of Saganaga Lake with twists and turns around numerous islands. Saganaga Lake is a large body of water so take your time paddling it. Make some stops at the many campsites to stretch your legs or have a swim break or snack. You may want to camp at one of the sites on Sag your last night to make the paddle back to our dock a bit shorter the next day.
This loop can actually be done in a very long day trip, but we recommend that you spend a minimum of 3 days on the loop. If you want to hit the fishing hard then a longer trip is better and I would plan for the extra time to make the most of the trip.
View Saganaga Alpine Seagull Loop in a larger map
Boundary Waters Entry Point 54 Seagull Lake or Entry Point 55 Saganaga Lake
Minimum Trip Length 3 Days
When time and experience are limited the Seagull, Alpine, Red Rock, Saganaga route is a great choice. The close proximity to two entry points as well as the great fishing makes this a popular route. It is a good option for those who want to get a taste of the BWCA experience without too much of a challenge in the way of navigating and portaging.
The loop can begin and end at our dock by entering into Saganaga Lake or entering into Seagull Lake. You can leave from our dock and paddle south to Seagull Lake via Gull Lake and traverse the falls at the Trail’s End Campground or walk the short campground loop from one boat landing to the other. Or if you prefer we can transport you to one of the two landings into Seagull Lake; we primarily use the one at the Trail’s End Campground. It’s just a short 2 mile drive to the landing which bypasses the 38 rod portage from Gull into Seagull Lake.
Before you get to Seagull Lake you will paddle the narrow channel and then pass through a narrow gap. The Seagull River Nature Trail follows the channel out to the point where paddlers can choose to get out on the left shoreline and portage around the chute. The water level can make this area a little tricky but if you are prepared then you should be fine.
Seagull is a favorite lake of many who like to have easy access to wilderness campsites without any portaging. The scenery is gorgeous with over 100 islands over an acre in size and excellent fishing. You can read more about Seagull Lake by following this link. Don’t miss the hike to the top of the Palisades as it is definitely worth the view.
With map in hand you can successfully navigate your way around the islands and to the portage leading into Alpine Lake. The best portage is the most popular and is 105 rods in length. There’s a nice sandy landing and the portage is well maintained and easy to traverse. There’s another route shown on the map but it is not recommended. It takes you through a river that is not navigable and there aren’t any portages around it. People who make the mistake of taking that route risk the twisting of ankles and worse due to the slippery, rocky terrain.
If you want to take the less traveled route then choose the portage to Rog Lake. This is a quiet little lake that contains brook trout worth fishing for. The portage into Rog from Seagull is 60 rods and out of Rog into Alpine is only 20 rods.
Alpine Lake has a number of islands in the middle of the lake that make the lake appear smaller in size then it actually is. These islands provide excellent structure with all of their rocky outcroppings. Smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye like to hang out in the narrow waterways surrounding the islands. There are over 20 campsites to choose from on Alpine Lake so don’t settle for the most popular ones right on the beaten path. While they are beautiful sites there are other more private sites if you want to avoid traffic from the portages.
Red Rock Lake lies to the north of Alpine via a short 50 rod portage. Great fishing awaits anglers and moose regularly appear around the 8 campsites there. It’s a pretty lake with lots of shallow bays for the hungry moose to feed in and trees that eagles like to nest in.
There’s a short portage into Saganaga Lake where a towboat can come to pick you up at the end of your trip. When the water level is high you can paddle through to Red Rock Bay instead of portaging the 10 rods around it. Red Rock Bay is one of the most beautiful areas of Saganaga Lake with twists and turns around numerous islands. Saganaga Lake is a large body of water so take your time paddling it. Make some stops at the many campsites to stretch your legs or have a swim break or snack. You may want to camp at one of the sites on Sag your last night to make the paddle back to our dock a bit shorter the next day.
This loop can actually be done in a very long day trip, but we recommend that you spend a minimum of 3 days on the loop. If you want to hit the fishing hard then a longer trip is better and I would plan for the extra time to make the most of the trip.
View Saganaga Alpine Seagull Loop in a larger map
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Blackstone Lake
Blackstone Base Camp
Quetico Park Entry Point 72 Man Chain
Minimum Trip Length 4 Days
“Blackstone Lake was named after the eloquent Ojibwe chief Magatewasin(Blackstone) who argued so well for the rights of his people that he was compared to a famous English jurist, Sir Wm. Blackstone(1723-1780). Blackstone was appointed by the people at the height of land to represent them at the negotiations for Treaty 3 in 1873. He became the chief at the Lac la Croix reserve until his death in 1884. A daughter married the son of Chief Kabaigon of Kawa Bay Reserve.” Lake Names of Quetico Provincial Park
Blackstone Lake is one of our favorite Quetico Park Lakes. It takes a little bit of work to get into but once you are there you will not want to leave. Most of the time you will have the entire lake to yourself and if you do end up sharing it it’s not a big deal because it’s a larger sized lake with lots of bays to tuck into.
When you have finished at the Cache Bay Ranger Station you will head North and then west into the channel that leads you to Silver Falls. Cache Bay is a large open bay that can get wavy in a hurry and can also be a bit confusing. Point your boat north and then look for the high point of land on the north shore of the bay. You should be able to pick out the highest tree tops and that’s where you’ll want to go.
Make sure you are at the farthest channel in the Bay as many folks have been fooled into thinking the bay just prior to it is the right one. It doesn’t take long to hear the falls so if you’ve been paddling in the channel for more then 15 minutes then you’re probably in the wrong place.
Remember, when you hear rushing water and see tree tops dropping there’s going to be a change in elevation. You are at the top of the falls so make sure to paddle close to the right side of the channel where you’ll find the canoe landing.
Silver Falls Portage is somewhat long at 125 rods but it is a well beaten path as most people who visit the Quetico from Cache Bay travel across it one way if not both. At the bottom of the Falls you may find people cooling off in the water or taking a break. If you are tempted to do this then I would suggest paddling to the first campsite to avoid congestion at the portage. As I said before, Silver Falls can be a busy place as groups coming in and going out of the Quetico tend to use this portage. If you want to avoid Silver Falls then ask us about an alternate route.
It’s a pretty paddle through the narrows and out into Saganagons. There’s also some good fishing in this area as well as a couple of prime campsites, just keep in mind you’re still on the beaten path. Once the lake opens up you’ll find more campsites but if you’re destined for Blackstone then paddle northwest to find the creek that leads to Blackstone.
The creek is a fun and beautiful place to paddle. Moose, deer and wolves have been spotted in the area and the plant life is unique when compared to other areas of the Quetico Park. You’ll be able to paddle the majority of the way but will have 3-4 short portages and may have to get your feet wet to get over some beaver dams.
I’m not sure what it is about an island campsite but the majority of folks love to camp on them. The island site on Blackstone is no exception and is by far the most used campsite. That being said it is the most open and public campsite so if you want a more primitive site then look at the others before deciding on the island. The other sites are smaller and offer more privacy.
If you’re looking for walleye then don’t look in Blackstone as you won’t find any. You will find lake trout, smallmouth bass and northern pike on Blackstone and you can even find largemouth bass on the lakes between Blackstone and Slate Lake. If you aren’t into fishing but wish to explore then check out the portages. The portage into Bell is 298 rods each way, almost 2 miles round trip. Not many people portage their gear out this way but it makes a great place to stretch your legs for a hike.
You can exit Blackstone via the creek you came in on or through the unnamed lakes between Blackstone and Slate. From Blackstone there is a 60 rod, 25 rod and 150 rod to get to Slate and then an 8 rod portage to get into Saganagons. You’ll paddle back towards Silver Falls, traverse the portage and find yourself back in Cache Bay of Saganaga.
To really enjoy a trip to Blackstone it’s nice to have a full day planned for getting there, a full day planned for getting out and 3 or more days to spend camping, exploring and relaxing in your private wilderness lake.
View Blackstone Base Camp in a larger map
Quetico Park Entry Point 72 Man Chain
Minimum Trip Length 4 Days
“Blackstone Lake was named after the eloquent Ojibwe chief Magatewasin(Blackstone) who argued so well for the rights of his people that he was compared to a famous English jurist, Sir Wm. Blackstone(1723-1780). Blackstone was appointed by the people at the height of land to represent them at the negotiations for Treaty 3 in 1873. He became the chief at the Lac la Croix reserve until his death in 1884. A daughter married the son of Chief Kabaigon of Kawa Bay Reserve.” Lake Names of Quetico Provincial Park
Blackstone Lake is one of our favorite Quetico Park Lakes. It takes a little bit of work to get into but once you are there you will not want to leave. Most of the time you will have the entire lake to yourself and if you do end up sharing it it’s not a big deal because it’s a larger sized lake with lots of bays to tuck into.
When you have finished at the Cache Bay Ranger Station you will head North and then west into the channel that leads you to Silver Falls. Cache Bay is a large open bay that can get wavy in a hurry and can also be a bit confusing. Point your boat north and then look for the high point of land on the north shore of the bay. You should be able to pick out the highest tree tops and that’s where you’ll want to go.
Make sure you are at the farthest channel in the Bay as many folks have been fooled into thinking the bay just prior to it is the right one. It doesn’t take long to hear the falls so if you’ve been paddling in the channel for more then 15 minutes then you’re probably in the wrong place.
Remember, when you hear rushing water and see tree tops dropping there’s going to be a change in elevation. You are at the top of the falls so make sure to paddle close to the right side of the channel where you’ll find the canoe landing.
Silver Falls Portage is somewhat long at 125 rods but it is a well beaten path as most people who visit the Quetico from Cache Bay travel across it one way if not both. At the bottom of the Falls you may find people cooling off in the water or taking a break. If you are tempted to do this then I would suggest paddling to the first campsite to avoid congestion at the portage. As I said before, Silver Falls can be a busy place as groups coming in and going out of the Quetico tend to use this portage. If you want to avoid Silver Falls then ask us about an alternate route.
It’s a pretty paddle through the narrows and out into Saganagons. There’s also some good fishing in this area as well as a couple of prime campsites, just keep in mind you’re still on the beaten path. Once the lake opens up you’ll find more campsites but if you’re destined for Blackstone then paddle northwest to find the creek that leads to Blackstone.
The creek is a fun and beautiful place to paddle. Moose, deer and wolves have been spotted in the area and the plant life is unique when compared to other areas of the Quetico Park. You’ll be able to paddle the majority of the way but will have 3-4 short portages and may have to get your feet wet to get over some beaver dams.
I’m not sure what it is about an island campsite but the majority of folks love to camp on them. The island site on Blackstone is no exception and is by far the most used campsite. That being said it is the most open and public campsite so if you want a more primitive site then look at the others before deciding on the island. The other sites are smaller and offer more privacy.
If you’re looking for walleye then don’t look in Blackstone as you won’t find any. You will find lake trout, smallmouth bass and northern pike on Blackstone and you can even find largemouth bass on the lakes between Blackstone and Slate Lake. If you aren’t into fishing but wish to explore then check out the portages. The portage into Bell is 298 rods each way, almost 2 miles round trip. Not many people portage their gear out this way but it makes a great place to stretch your legs for a hike.
You can exit Blackstone via the creek you came in on or through the unnamed lakes between Blackstone and Slate. From Blackstone there is a 60 rod, 25 rod and 150 rod to get to Slate and then an 8 rod portage to get into Saganagons. You’ll paddle back towards Silver Falls, traverse the portage and find yourself back in Cache Bay of Saganaga.
To really enjoy a trip to Blackstone it’s nice to have a full day planned for getting there, a full day planned for getting out and 3 or more days to spend camping, exploring and relaxing in your private wilderness lake.
View Blackstone Base Camp in a larger map
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Sweatshirt Weather
Finally the heat wave ended and we are enjoying a breezy, sunny, 70 degree day. It's still warm for May on the Gunflint Trail but at least it isn't 90 degrees like it was yesterday. The humidity and temperatures in the 80's this past week were unbelievable and they prompted me to start swimming in the Seagull River to cool off. Even the water temperature is warm, much warmer than I've ever felt it in May.
Last night's windstorm blew trees down all over the Gunflint Trail. One almost hit our outfitting building and one did hit a power line. We were without electricity at Voyageur all evening. Good thing we weren't busy or trying to help guests with permits or fishing licenses. All of the automated stuff doesn't work if we don't have power.
We still have vacancies for Memorial Weekend so if you're looking for something to do, then come up and see us. We'd love to have you as our guest.
Last night's windstorm blew trees down all over the Gunflint Trail. One almost hit our outfitting building and one did hit a power line. We were without electricity at Voyageur all evening. Good thing we weren't busy or trying to help guests with permits or fishing licenses. All of the automated stuff doesn't work if we don't have power.
We still have vacancies for Memorial Weekend so if you're looking for something to do, then come up and see us. We'd love to have you as our guest.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Priorities
What are your priorities? This is a question I ask myself not only on a daily basis but also sometimes every minute of the day. This time of the year is especially difficult for me to get my priorities straight. As I walk around Voyageur both my workplace and home, I am continually distracted by everything that needs to be done.
I have written about setting out to find something or to do something only to find myself forgetting all about what I was suppose to be doing and doing something else in the meantime. What's your priority? This morning has been one of those days from the beginning. It began with a simple question from the kids, "Are we going to tennis today?"
Yes or no would be a logical answer for most people but not for me. "We'll see." was my response today. Thank goodness my children are somewhat flexible, I should say very flexible. It's not unusual for them to get a phone call while in school telling them to come home on the bus because a meeting was cancelled and we don't want to drive all of the way to town just to pick them up after practice. Today as I pondered the question I thought about a meeting I have at 4:30pm. My mind whirled, "If I don't go in then I can get this done and that done. If I do go in then I need to do this and that. But I really need to stay home to finish x." And on it went with no answer to the priority question.
I was going to sit down to write my blog much earlier today but then I remembered I had wanted to get the blankets and linens from Riverside Cabin. I had planned to wash them yesterday and never got around to it. So I went downstairs to tell Mike something and was distracted by the laundry left in my dryer from the day before and knew I would need it out before I could do Riverside laundry so I started to fold it. When I was done I noticed some cleaning supplies I had wanted to bring up to outfitting yesterday or the day before, or maybe even the day before that, but hadn't gotten around to it. So, I started getting the cleaning supplies together to bring up to outfitting. On my way Sheri asked where we should put the plants and flowers I had purchased. As I walked around with her I remembered I had wanted to make a planter on the backside of the lodge so I grabbed a shovel and started digging. Remembering some potting soil underneath the deck I went to see how much was there and on my way I passed Elsa with her laundry which reminded me I was on my way to Riverside to get the laundry. Needless to say I was wandering aimlessly with no priority in mind.
Then I thought... What is the most urgent thing at this moment? Oh yeah, my blog. I still don't have my blog done. But as I write this blog I think about the shovel I left out, the laundry that isn't done, the clothes in the store that need to be put away, the cleaning supplies and the flowers that need to be put into the ground along with 10,000 other tasks that need to be done. I remember an invitation to a field trip tomorrow for Josh's class and I wonder how on earth I could spend an entire day in town on a field trip when there are so many things to do here. Then I ask, what is the priority?
The answer to that question is easy. My kids are my main priority. Sorry if you are my guest and that makes you feel badly but my children come first. So, keep that in mind when you visit this summer and my house is a mess, the flowers aren't planted and there's a shovel leaning against the lodge. I have to keep reminding myself what my priority is because sometimes it's easy to forget.
Ooops, almost did it again. I just had a wood tick on me and Rugby is sitting next to me so I started checking him for more wood ticks and almost got up to give him a bath before I realized I hadn't finished my blog. Here I go again. What's my priority?
I have written about setting out to find something or to do something only to find myself forgetting all about what I was suppose to be doing and doing something else in the meantime. What's your priority? This morning has been one of those days from the beginning. It began with a simple question from the kids, "Are we going to tennis today?"
Yes or no would be a logical answer for most people but not for me. "We'll see." was my response today. Thank goodness my children are somewhat flexible, I should say very flexible. It's not unusual for them to get a phone call while in school telling them to come home on the bus because a meeting was cancelled and we don't want to drive all of the way to town just to pick them up after practice. Today as I pondered the question I thought about a meeting I have at 4:30pm. My mind whirled, "If I don't go in then I can get this done and that done. If I do go in then I need to do this and that. But I really need to stay home to finish x." And on it went with no answer to the priority question.
I was going to sit down to write my blog much earlier today but then I remembered I had wanted to get the blankets and linens from Riverside Cabin. I had planned to wash them yesterday and never got around to it. So I went downstairs to tell Mike something and was distracted by the laundry left in my dryer from the day before and knew I would need it out before I could do Riverside laundry so I started to fold it. When I was done I noticed some cleaning supplies I had wanted to bring up to outfitting yesterday or the day before, or maybe even the day before that, but hadn't gotten around to it. So, I started getting the cleaning supplies together to bring up to outfitting. On my way Sheri asked where we should put the plants and flowers I had purchased. As I walked around with her I remembered I had wanted to make a planter on the backside of the lodge so I grabbed a shovel and started digging. Remembering some potting soil underneath the deck I went to see how much was there and on my way I passed Elsa with her laundry which reminded me I was on my way to Riverside to get the laundry. Needless to say I was wandering aimlessly with no priority in mind.
Then I thought... What is the most urgent thing at this moment? Oh yeah, my blog. I still don't have my blog done. But as I write this blog I think about the shovel I left out, the laundry that isn't done, the clothes in the store that need to be put away, the cleaning supplies and the flowers that need to be put into the ground along with 10,000 other tasks that need to be done. I remember an invitation to a field trip tomorrow for Josh's class and I wonder how on earth I could spend an entire day in town on a field trip when there are so many things to do here. Then I ask, what is the priority?
The answer to that question is easy. My kids are my main priority. Sorry if you are my guest and that makes you feel badly but my children come first. So, keep that in mind when you visit this summer and my house is a mess, the flowers aren't planted and there's a shovel leaning against the lodge. I have to keep reminding myself what my priority is because sometimes it's easy to forget.
Ooops, almost did it again. I just had a wood tick on me and Rugby is sitting next to me so I started checking him for more wood ticks and almost got up to give him a bath before I realized I hadn't finished my blog. Here I go again. What's my priority?
Monday, May 17, 2010
Never a Better Fishing Opener
In all of the years we have owned and operated Voyageur Canoe Outfitters I've never seen a better fishing opener. I'm not sure how many fish were caught but the weather was absolutely beautiful.
All weekend long in the BWCA the sun shined brightly and the temperature soared. Yesterday's high temperature reached 77 degrees and reports of sunburned skin were heard.
We did hear about fish being caught on the lakes of the Gunflint Trail over the weekend as well. Plenty of Lake Trout and Northern Pike were caught in the Boundary Waters and on Saganaga with reports of some nice Walleye as well.
While there's never been better weather for the fishing opener we've never not had the Walleye Wranglers here to spend it with. The Walleye Wranglers, long-time guests of the fishing opener, couldn't make it up this year so our fishing reports are quite incomplete.
I'll have to stick with what I know to be true. Without snow flurries and rain thiis year's fishing opener had the best weather ever.
All weekend long in the BWCA the sun shined brightly and the temperature soared. Yesterday's high temperature reached 77 degrees and reports of sunburned skin were heard.
We did hear about fish being caught on the lakes of the Gunflint Trail over the weekend as well. Plenty of Lake Trout and Northern Pike were caught in the Boundary Waters and on Saganaga with reports of some nice Walleye as well.
While there's never been better weather for the fishing opener we've never not had the Walleye Wranglers here to spend it with. The Walleye Wranglers, long-time guests of the fishing opener, couldn't make it up this year so our fishing reports are quite incomplete.
I'll have to stick with what I know to be true. Without snow flurries and rain thiis year's fishing opener had the best weather ever.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Price of a Tow Boat Ride
Will it go up like the price of gas after an oil spill?
Coast Guard Improves Licensing Process for Minnesota Guides and Outfitters. 5/12/2010 http://www.bymnews.com/news/newsDetails.php?id=69110
A U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters working group has identified strategies aimed at promoting awareness and compliance with licensing requirements for Operators of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV), while ensuring a sensible level of public safety and security.
Uninspected Passenger Vessels are motorized vessels that carry one to six passengers, and not passenger operations on unpowered canoes or drift-boats.
Although the Coast Guard cannot waive federal law, which requires operators who carry passengers for hire aboard a boat on federally navigable waters to hold a Coast Guard issued OUPV license, these strategies will bring some relief to the licensing process for Minnesota guides and outfitters.
The following efforts will be enacted in an effort to improve OUPV licensing compliance and public safety:
Administer OUPV license exams in Minnesota. This effort should eliminate the need for interested parties to travel to St. Louis, Mo., or Toledo, Ohio, which are the nearest licensing facilities in order to take an exam. Some locations already identified as possible exam sites include the Ely, Chisholm, and International Falls areas. Other areas may be added in proportion with public demand. Exact locations and dates will be published as soon as they are available.
No course prerequisite. Those seeking to obtain an OUPV license are required to take a Coast Guard exam, but do not have to take a Coast Guard approved OUPV course. However, even though not required, there are approved courses that can be taken in lieu of an examination administered by the Coast Guard. Interested parties are encouraged to ask their local Coast Guard office about the various options available for obtaining an OUPV license.
Provide the option for modified licenses. This change reduces financial and administrative burdens associated with compliance by appropriately tailoring license requirements for mariners operation in geographically restricted waterways. In addition to a full operator’s license, there are two alternatives available: a restricted OUPV license that limits operations to a specific geographic location; or a limited OUPV license for those that are employed by organizations such as yacht clubs, marinas and educational institutions, and limits the operations to the specific activity and locality.
Operators interested in getting a Coast Guard license must first obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) from the Transportation Security Administration before the Coast Guard can issue a license. The Coast Guard cannot waive this federal requirement. The TWIC program is administered by TSA, and information on obtaining a TWIC can be found at: http://twicinformation.tsa.dhs.gov or call 1-866-347-8942. Operators must also comply with current drug and alcohol testing regulations.
“We are here to help you get a license, but we cannot help you operate without one.” said Lt. Cmdr. Dean Firing, Ninth Coast Guard District Chief of Inspections and Investigations Branch.
These licensing laws are currently in effect, and current operators of uninspected passenger vessels who do not hold a valid operator license are encouraged to work with their local Coast Guard Sector or Officer in Charge of Marine Inspections.
Both the Eighth and Ninth Coast Guard Districts have responsibilities in the State of Minnesota, essentially dividing the state in half.
For residents of southern Minnesota, please contact Marine Safety Detachment St. Paul at 612-725-1871.
For residents in the northern part of the state, including Mille Lacs, please contact Marine Safety Unit Duluth at 218-720-5286.
The approximate costs to be incurred by the individual mariner for each alternative are as follows:
|
OUPV (non-restricted) |
Limited OUPV |
OUPV Restricted |
TWIC*1 |
$132.50 |
$132.50 |
$132.50 |
USCG Application/Issuance Fees *4 |
$145.00 |
$145.00 |
$145.00 |
CPR & First Aid Training *4 |
$ 60.00 |
$ 60.00*3 |
$ 60.00*3 |
Physical Examination |
$100.00 |
$100.00 |
$100.00 |
Drug Test |
$ 49.00 |
$ 49.00 |
$ 49.00 |
USCG Examination Fee *4 |
$ 95.00*2 |
$ 95.00 |
$ 95.00*2 |
USCG Approved OUPV Course |
$750.00*2 |
- |
$500.00*2 |
Safe Boating Course |
- |
$ 30.00 |
- |
TOTAL |
$581.50 or $1,236.50*2 |
$551.50*3or $611.50 |
$521.50*3, $581.50, or $986.50*2 |
*1 TSA collects fingerprints and background information during TWIC enrollment and provides this information to the Coast Guard in order to complete documentation for the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). The Coast Guard is not currently set up to collect mariner fingerprints and to complete certain functions performed by TSA as part of the TWIC evaluation. If a TWIC is not required, alternative arrangements for these functions would be studied and may result in additional costs.
*2 Mariners must complete a Coast Guard examination OR an approved course may be taken in lieu of examination.
*3 CPR & first aid training required when medical services are not readily available in a reasonable time.
*4 Fees collected by the Coast Guard.
Additional information on licensing can be found at http://www.uscg.mil/nmc. For more information on the Coast Guard’s passenger vessel safety program, go to http://www.uscg.mil/pvs/default.asp.
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