Hiked fire road to Elk trail head in winter. Easy hike to this point…would only do again if continuing beyond this point.
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It’s alright. Flat, and long as expected. Some nice birch trees, and some other pretty old ones. Bugs are biblical though, beware. Some reprieve was to be found on the shorelines when the breeze was present, and the water was decently swimmable for late July. The presence of motorized boats on the lake was definitely a nuisance, but the campsites were well maintained, and stocked with tables and firepits and such. Can’t say the same for poor old Grey Owl’s cabin, but hey, it’s still standing I guess.
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This hike is a pilgrimage. Read up on Grey Owl before heading out as he was quite a character! We finally made it on our fourth try in 48 years (once poisoned and twice turned back paddling by unexpected weather). Backpacked in this time in 3 days. The trail is a bit rugged but always beautiful. The forest is ever-changing, beautiful beaches at campsites, June flowers in bloom, fern flanked stream courses, and bears. Worth every try!
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