5 – 13 day Algonquin Park Canoe Trips
One of the highlights of a 5 – 13 day Algonquin Park canoe trip is the feeling of “leaving it all behind “. Paddling into Algonquin, I start to relax. The wind helps push us across the lake. The thousands of thoughts of busy days at work seem to be fading. An Offspray dives near b. The stress is evaporating with each stroke. The canoe flies accross the water. I am so excited to be heading out for a week. A 7-day backcountry Algonquin canoe trip that will take us to all the way down to Canoe Lake . I have paddled this river 100 times. Why do I find it more beautiful this time out? We hit the big Lake and the clouds open up for a warm afternoon sun. We set our lines. And to think, we have just started. This is going to be amazing.
The Fish are biting
I luck out and land a spectacular Lake trout on the first day. In a whirlwind, I take out the lure and return the beautiful fish to the Lake. This is a good omen. On the second day, we land one nice laker and several brook trout. Tonight, fish is on the menu.
Backcountry Camping
I love camping in Algonquin Park’s backcountry. The deeper you go, the more isolated and spectacular the camping gets. A swim, the campfire, and excellent food. Warm Sleeping Bag. And that west wind whistling high above.
Life on the Trail
By the third day, we are in a rhythm. Life is simple on the trail. Wake with the sun, fire, coffee, pack out, paddle, portage, fish. Swim, Eat, Camp. Repeat. With the days simplicity, it becomes easier to take in the incredible environment we are paddling through. The rivers are stunning. The longer portages feel long! The average Algonquin Park portage is 1.3 Km. The portages we have today are much longer. When i break mid-portage , i pick up up all the sounds and smells of the forest. The birds, frogs and insects. I am aware of my breathing. The end of the portage is bliss.
A change in route
Today we change gears. 2 of our group have bad backs and the extra long route to Canoe Lake is changed to now take out at Brent on Cedar Lake. The upside, more great fishing. Paddling 1/2 way accross Algonquin is spectacular. We talk of ” finshing the second half” and paddling “the Pet” Petawawa River next year. And when hit that miletsone year, are Crossing Algonquin.
The Wrap
The end of the trip is bittersweet. We all feel amazing and are excited for the expected post-trip cheeeseburger. We are quiet. A nice satisfaction feeling. The world with all its issues , is around the corner. But we had this time. This magical time together. Time slowed down. We are all better for it. And we can’t wait for the next trip.
