Portage Description:
I was 19 and it was my first Boundary Waters trip. I had not been discouraged on the first day coming into Cherokee up from Sawbill. Going into Sitka broke my spirit. My friend could have told me first that we were crossing the Laurentian Divide, and that was a big deal. He could have told me that even a modest length portage (140 rods) could be really hard. He could have suggested that I not carry a pack and a canoe. He let me experience Cherokee to Sitka in all its brutal glory, and I remember that one step, staring at it in pain, wondering if I could step up on that wet rock. I did.

A decade later, or maybe five years, with four friends, I did warn them. But when we came to that one tall step, behind me in the woods I heard that terrible clanging of a metal canoe crashing to the ground. Respect Cherokee to Sitka. But never say never again.

Lake after portage: Sitka
Known campsites: not sure
Lake Description:

Portage from Sitka into: