Handling the Canoe on Portages
Treat your canoe well, even if it is a rental. If it springs a leak you may be in serious trouble. Land the craft softly and avoid dragging the canoe over rocks not only to prevent damaging it but also to reduce noise in the wilderness. Other canoeists nearby may not appreciate the noise and you may prematurely announce your presence to nearby wildlife depriving you of possible viewing pleasure.

"What wilderness should be doing is speaking to our souls and teaching us about being quiet..." --Bill Mason

The one or two person side lift is the most elegant method to get a canoe on one's shoulders. Another way to lift the canoe is the "end roll" where a person not carrying the canoe grabs the canoe at the front thwart and rolls the craft up using the stern plate as a pivot. The canoe portager then steps under the carrying yoke and lifts away. This method is less desirable as the stern plate becomes worn over time. If the canoe portager is also carrying a pack this is an acceptable lift method. At the end of the portage lower the canoe carefully to avoid noise and damaging it. Do not leave a canoe unattended near or in the water to prevent its loss from a gust of wind carrying it out into the lake, or the stream current stealing the craft.

Entry > Discover Wilderness > Canoeing Information > Canoes on Portages