Temagami, Ontario
Even in a place as sinuous as Temagami, it’s all too easy to stay on popular routes. The obscure, seldom-travelled corridors can seem like a bit of a crapshoot. Don’t be afraid to roll the dice. Temagami has a plethora of inconspicuous gems for anyone who isn’t afraid of a little portag- ing and has the time to indulge in exploration. The effort devot- ed to a less-accessible route is like spending the extra five bucks for a better bottle of wine. Try winding through the name- less chain of lakes between Ames
GUIDEBOOK ............ Canoeing, Hiking and Kayaking Wild Temagami (new edition), by Hap Wilson,
www.bostonmillspress.com.
by Hap Wilson
PERMITS .................. The route passes through a number of provincial parks. For permits call Temagami Parks, (705) 569-3205.
ROUTE: Ames Creek, Yorston River
Creek and the Yorston River. Isn’t there something appealing about pointing your canoe toward a group of unnamed lakes, as if they missed the inven- tories done by early explorers, prospectors, even the thorough timber cruisers?
Need to know
Asix to eight-day trip starts with a fly-in to Florence Lake. Ames Creek wends its way south from Florence along the base of a mas- sive fault-line. From there, you hump over a few reasonably cleared portages (kept open
MAPS........................ Topos–41 P/1, P/2, P/7, P/8, I/15, I/16.
mostly by moose and the elusive Temagami sasquatch) and pond- hop westward through a collec- tion of serenely beautiful small lakes. Once on the Yorston, you can head out of the bottom of Bluesucker Lake and continue down to the Sturgeon River and Lake Temagami (via Wawiagama Lake) or, in low water, lake-hop west from Bluesucker past Solace Lake to meet up with the Sturgeon River near Twin Falls. Add four or five days for this detour. Either way, frequent portages raise this trip
ACCESS.................... Lakeland Airways, (705) 569-3455. Approximate cost, $325 for a one-way charter for two people, canoe and gear.
OUTFITTERS ............ Smoothwater Outfitters and Ecolodge,
www.smoothwater.com (a good source for water levels, consultation, guid- ing, rentals and permits).
above novice level.
Local Lore This route starts just south of a stretch of difficult travelling where the South Lady Evelyn River passes over a fen. Deadfalls and gravel bars make progress difficult here, meaning much of a canoeist’s time is spent half-standing and bending forward, rocking a canoe over obstructions. Hence the river’s more colourful Ojibway name of Toong-dee-ay Sibi, loosely trans- lated as “River where rear ends point backwards.”
Cockpit, easy access/closure. (Hook & Loop)
Cargo Hatch (Standard or Portage)
Without a strong, versatile lashing system, the other
Features could be a wash. Painter Tie-down Shock cord waist
Nylon-webbing Tie-downs
Paddle Pockets
With one of the strongest lashing systems in the business, you can add the features you want and know it’s going to stay on your boat. North Water custom builds your spray deck to fit the dimensions of your boat with the functions you need. North Water’s bombproof decks are expedition proven. They easily adjust to fit different loads, give quick access to your gear and add safety to any trip.
To find out how we can make your next expedition even better, call us at 604.264.0827 or visit our web site at
www.northwater.com. Always Paddle responsibly and get professional instruction.
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www.canoeroots.ca
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE AYKROYD
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