heading to Alpine Lake on Monday, August 17

Our first completely dry night so we were able to just hit the ground running on Monday. We had breakfast and then packed a lunch so we could head to Alpine Lake. Our neighbor, Charlie raved about Alpine Lake so we thought we should check it out. It took us about 45 minutes to paddle over and then we decided to leave 2 canoes at one end and just portage one canoe 100 rods which is just under 1/3 of a mile. Brad was the first one to portage and he did an amazing job bringing the canoe that distance. 

He then transported Katie, Osten and I to a campsite that was recommended by two teachers who were on the portage path and we set up lunch while he went back to get Lindsey and Anders. It was very close to the portage area so it was PERFECT. We spent some time exploring again and were thinking about swimming but the chill in the air wasn't enticing enough. As we were finishing up our lunch, two canoers asked if they could claim the site for their evening camp. We quickly abandoned the island and Brad once again taxied us to the portage area. This time it was Anders' turn...it was a great test for him and he did it, but he was very tired and sore when it was done. I think it gave him a newfound admiration for his strong Dad. 

Back to camp where to lounged, played cards, fished, read, witteled, prepared dinner and kept seeing sweet little creatures around camp. The chipmunks, the snake, a grouse, red squirrels, loons, small mouth bass, crayfish, flies (argh), mosquitos (not as bad as those pesky flies) and later during an evening paddle/fish, we spied a painted turtle sunning itself on a log. 

Another campfire, some star gazing and it was again off to bed. Great day in the BWCA. 

trying out the rapids area near Alpine Lake

Discovering we needed to paddle to the portage

doing a Beat Box Battle on the island in Alpine Lake

Momma and daughter in matching shades

Katie hanging out by the portage spot

Lindsey aka "the whitteler"

Osten checking out the sharpness of the spear

Anders enjoying the spears and daggers created

Playing Tenzi...so fun

catching and releasing a small mouth

the painted turtle hanging out on a log