Wally13 wrote on Jan 2^nd, 2008 at 5:55am:

I am taking some 1st timers from Denver, CO...would the loop you guys are suggesting be too tough on some 45 year old 1st timers? I would have no problem with the paddle or portages . How would you rate the loop as far as difficulty? Also, since I am going over the 4th of July...how much of a problem is the low water from Kahshahipiwi to Side...is it a common occurence to have low water?

I'm over 60 and paddling solo (which means I carry ALL of my own gear).  I sure hope a 45 year old could make this.  My rough estimate of difficulty at this stage is perhaps on the high side of average; maybe bordering on moderate.  Some "flat-landers" complain about the mountain goat portage between Isabella and Side (connecting a couple of no-name lakes), but folks from Denver should be able to laugh this one off if they've done any of the trails beyond the front range.

I've not done all parts of this loop yet, but the only ones that look to present any significant difficulties (based on experience/research) are those portages into/out of Kash.  I would say that it is not typical to have an issue with the water level between Kash and Side.  I've done this one before and, although the put in (north end) tends to be a bit muddy ... at least it not typically a bog.  

One variation of this route I'm trying this year is to take a tow to Lincoln Island.  This will allow me to skip the Burke portages (at least going in ... I'll likely do them coming out).  Hopefully, this will put me on either Side or Sarah on Day #1.

Like I said, I can give you an update on the route after June 1 ... but you'll probably need to remind me (IM or e-mail).  Hopefully, we won't see low water in July ... I'll be back in the Q again then ... northern route trip.

dd