After a few solo trips I found the thought of a large group (anything more than three) doesn't thrill me a bit. Also you realize the double portage is not that big of a deal. I like being able to do longer trips and seeing more... and sometimes seeing more is part of that second trip across the portage. Something I believe Marlin was saying... The only time I like to move a little faster is going into the BW to get past the crowds.