BillConner wrote on Oct 17^th, 2020 at 11:02am:

My plans are further east. Hoping to do several sections if not entire North Forest Canoe Trail. Pretty sure I'll graduate from my Spot 2 to a sat phone to satisfy my spouse.  Hopefully a short learning curve.

BillConner,

Interesting.  Earlier this week, my brother & I discussed this same possible trip, though 2022 is more likely to be our year.

If I'm not mistaken, "the Allagash Waterway" in Maine is a prominent section of the North Forest Canoe Trail.  That 120 mile waterway was gorgeous and well worth paddling way back in 1979 when I did it.  If you do no other section of the NFCT, do THAT one.

A word to the wise: right in the middle, there's a very challenging 9 mile stretch called "Chase Rapids."  Believe me, you'll want the Forest Service to portage your packs & gear to far end should you decide attempt to maneuver your empty vessel through numerous Grade 3 & 4 rapids. I strongly advise availing yourself of that service if you elect to paddle it.

Anyway, the Allagash alone would be a great "alternative trip" in 2021 for anyone looking for such.  The first half is easy paddling on beautiful lakes in the shadow of Mt. Katahdin.  After a heart-in-mouth roller coaster ride on Chase Rapids, the balance of the paddling fairly straightforward on easy-flowing rivers and streams.  Finally, if you intend to fish, the whitefish bite was quite good throughout.

No doubt the area has seen changes in the 41 years since I was there but I can't imagine it being less than a wonderful wilderness paddling getaway.

Have fun with that one!

Jimbo   8-)