Hegman Lake Day Trip

It was a perfect day to head out to see the Pictographs on Hegman Lake just north of Ely on the Echo trail. We strapped the canoe on the car and took off. It was a feeling of excitement and contentment to be heading out in a canoe once again.

The portage from the parking lot to the lake was peaceful. I always view it as getting prepared to experience something wonderful. The warm weather brought the comforting smell of the pines. The north woods have this smell that just brings me back to the many BWCA canoe trips that have given me so many wonderful memories. It just seems as though my stresses just melt away and the busier pace of everyday life can be left for the slower paced canoe trip. It helps to clarify my thoughts and recharge my soul.

Once at the waters edge we climbed into the canoe and start gliding away from shore. We paddled a bit, crossed the short portage into North Hegman Lake and headed towards our main destination. We arrived at the familiar rock face. We gaze up and search for the pictographs that can be a bit tricky to find the first time. It really is amazing to be able to take a day trip to see such old art work. We studied the pictographs and took a few photos to remember our day.

The next stop was bog just up the lake. It is always fun to see all the different plants that make the bog their home. As we get to the bog we can see the that pitcher plants are plentiful and red this time of year.

We spent some time exploring the portage at the northern end of Trease Lake. We were hoping to see a few Lady slipper orchids, but we are a bit early. We began our paddle back and found the perfect rock to stop at and take in some sun and a little lunch. We watched a few other groups pass. They all seem to be enjoying the trip as much as we were. After lunch we make our way back to the portage which leads to the parking lot. As we head to the car to begin our entry back into our busy lives we fall quiet reflecting on our beautiful day trip and hope it won't be too long before we can take another trip.

Trails are clear and the ticks are here!!

With spring having sprung we're all getting the itch to get out and get moving! Took the dogs on a beautiful hike on the Angleworm hiking trail, north of Ely about 20 miles on the Echo Trail. Let me tell you it was a heck of a work out after hibernating all winter! The terrain is pretty hilly and rocky. So take care not to twist an ankle and wear a good set of sturdy boots. With all the rain this spring the trails are also still soggy and sloppy in some areas. After walking in about 3 miles to the old Angleworm Lookout Tower, the dogs and I settled in for a snack on the edge of a breath taking overlook of the lake.

It was so great to finally see the woods greening back up, tiny crocuses are finally starting to push their way up through the pine duff and into the warm sunshine. I think that all the north woods creatures are just as excited as the people are! On my 6 mile walk I saw deer, wood chuck, king fishers, and even a cow moose. Still a little too early for any baby moose or deer, but they'll be here soon by the looks of their mommas.

Just a reminder, on your way out of the woods be sure to double check yourself, and dogs if you brought them, for the infamous wood tick. I've already found a couple of the creepy crawlers climbing up my pants leg! Ticks or not it was still an absolutely amazing hike and would recommend it to anyone ambitious enough to get out and go!

Spirit of the Wilderness is open for the season!

The time has finally come and Spirit of the Wilderness will be open for the 2009 canoe season starting Thursday, May 7, 2009. We are looking forward to getting to see all of our returning guests from the last 10 years we have been in business. We are also looking forward to meeting all of our new guests heading up for their first time this summer.

The Minnesota Fishing opener is this Saturday, May 9, 2009. This could be considered another holiday to many that love to fish. It is the kick off to the summer. Let's hope for good weather and lots of fish.