A late summer trip in the park was just what I needed. It felt good to return to the boreal forest, to hike the spruce bogs, to work up a sweat clearing portage trails... and to treasure all of the gifts this great land offers. As soon as we got dropped off, we set out in search of a camp site, home for the next 4 days.
This open rocky point is perfect
A few notes and then we set out to find the trails that need clearing.
I welcomed the smells, the sounds, and the sights... all of which will linger in my mind long after I leave
And when we pay attention, we find small treasures.
Time to sharpen the saw and get to work
Old blazes show us the way to the next lake...
A grouping of fallen spruce trees add a little challenge but we carve through
And eventually we reach the water again. Another trail across this pond awaits.
At the end of the day, a good meal, and time to take down a few notes.
We had visitors every evening. A Boreal Owl flew in and out. Three curious otters slithered by, pointed their nose, barked and swam away. A large beaver made sure we were aware of its presence. The distant honking of Canada geese reminded us that a new season is approaching. Other creatures are more discrete and leave only signs of their passing.
An old shed antler along the beach...
Small details that amaze me. A tight jack pine cone.
The nights are cold and the mornings crisp.
A hot coffee quickly gets us ready for another day... and the canoe is set to go again.
And we explore yet again
I treasure my work in the park and take nothing for granted.
"Let Nature be your Teacher"
William Wordsworth
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