Lake Louisa Loop - Algonquin Provincial Park Apr 21-25 07

- The view of Smoke Lake from the dock

Just want to extend greetings to all our friends for the 2007 paddling season!

Another winter has passed and the ice has finally given up its icy grip (for the most part) on our liquid highways. And of course, I wouldn't be writing if we hadn't taken our inaugural trip for the year! Initially, we didn't think we would be able to make it out as early since the long cold spell quickly halted the melt that started during the brief warm period at the beginning of April. However, the consecutive 20C+ days at the beginning of last week quickly got things melting again and gave us hope. So yes, we got out our gear, packed and prepared for our questionable trip.


- Getting up and personal with the ice on Smoke Lake

We had 5 days to enjoy, so we decided to go to Algonquin. Since we don't go there during the regular season, we decided to take advantage of the time of year when we would see the least amount of people and headed off this past Saturday. What's that saying, "the early bird catches the worm". Well here's one for us paddlers, "the early canoeist gets the ice!"When we got to the main office, the (crusty) staff lady wouldn't give us a permit to canoe! We relayed our plan to do the Lake Louisa loop from Smoke Lake, which she promptly stated that ice still covered Smoke Lake and no one could pass. Despite the fact that all the lakes up to that office, (including the ones we passed in the park getting there) were all ice free, she stuck to her guns and stated there was ice on Smoke. I didn't doubt her, but outside, it was a sunny hot 21 degrees and it was probably getting hotter. She stated she saw the lake while coming to work this morning; therefore, could it possibly not have gone out since then?! (It was one o'clock at this point) Finally with some smooth talking, I convinced her to let us go and if we couldn't cross the lake, we would return defeated. She relented and gave us our permit. Of course, once I left
that office, I was hell bent on not returning if my life depended on it!!! Honestly, she had every right to think we were crazy! (can't really disagree!)


- Following a lead in the ice which allowed us to bypass a big bay (sw side of Smoke)

Before we got to the access point on Hwy 60, we briefly saw Smoke Lk from an elevated point on the road. The lake was completely covered by dark ice. Getting to the shoreline confirmed our previous view. Now it would be too easy just to turn around and head back, but what did we do? (or should I say, "what did I do?") I parked the vehicle, inspected the icy situation, deemed it plausible to pass (I'm not a betting man) and concurred with my partner. (don't know if she totally believed me or the possibility of success, but she had faith in me - ha! Now that sounds corny!) Marylou's usual response to me is, "What are you now getting into!?!" I have to love her for that!


- Follow the ice crumbs! We went from left to right before hitting ice that wouldn't part. We then backed up and curved to the left. At this point we were not going through the ice, rather sliding on top of the ice!

Now I'm sure some of you paddled the length of Smoke Lake. An hour or so? I think its 7kms. When Marylou and I paddled back on Wednesday, we covered the lake in 50 mins. The first day, due to the ice, we had to paddle basically the perimeter of the west side of the lake through open patches of water, slurry of ice particles, soft thick slush, ice blocks/pans, and even solid ice! At one point, we even paddled on top of the soft ice! It was thick enough not to break through (approx 3"), but soft enough to bend so that the canoe actually slid above it!) Anyways, I'm going off track. It took us about 4 hours! And that was because we were able to bypass the large south west bay and paddle the open south end. If not, it would have taken probably another 2 hours! Phew!


- A quiet morning on Ragged Lake (Archer Bay)

Needless to say, we had quite the experience and adventure. (positive, really!) Of course, we didn't get through the incident scot-free. (what are you kidding?!!) Marylou broke through the shallows and got both her feet soaked in the boots (really, I tried not to laugh), we both got nicks and scratches from all the tree branches we tried to avoid, and mainly, our boat sports scars from the ordeal. Good thing we have a Royalex canoe with skid plates! Oh yeah, we have also perfected the "dock lift-overs". (I think 6 in total)


- Resting on the portage to Lake Louisa (first day the peepers started singing)

Well, I would write forever if I keep rambling about the trip. In conclusion, we had a great time. Great weather, lots of wildlife (the mosquitoes are out! I got bit 3x on the first day!!!!), nice campsites, total solitude, and most importantly, rest and relaxation for the body (a little sore), mind, and soul. I hope all of you have or will get a chance to get out on the water soon.


- Lovely morning to paddle on Lake Louisa

We miss all of you we haven't seen for awhile and look forward to seeing you all. Take care, be safe on the water and highways, and make this another great paddling year! Feel free to call, email, or meet up with us. We'll keep in touch and continue sending the trip reports! Enjoy the pics! Cheers!


- The heavens regaled us with clouds and colour