I did my first solo overnighter recently on the wilderness section of thea Ganaraska trail in the QEII wildlands Provincial Park http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_E...rovincial_Park
This section of trail starts at a boat launch for cottagers just north of Moore's Falls. I've hiked this section a few times but this is the second time I actually camped. The hike takes you over several beaver dams and around a couple of remote lakes.
The site I picked is located on top of a small bluff overlooking Sheldon lake. A well established fire pit was situated right near the edge and someone was kind enough(?) to leave a grill for cooking and there was already a pile of deadwood for my fire that night. I did get a chance to use my new folding saw from Lee Valley tools. It has a japanese style blade which went through the wood like a hot knife through butter.
After setting up my DIY blackbird clone, DIY UQ made from a JR Wally world bag, MEC scout tarp and summer sleeping bag I was ready to get all my camp chores finished. I went into the bush to get more wood ( there's that old adage that once you think you have enough wood, double it ). Plenty of standing dead birch and cedar trees to choose from. I filtered some water from the lake and put up my hammock chair.
I spent most of the afternoon taking pics, reading and occasionally making some noise ( I had spotted bear tracks on the trail into the site). This site is so quiet that a great blue heron flew by me as I sat in my chair at the edge of the bluff and I heard it's wings first before I saw it....beautiful sight.
The next morning started with rain.Then it rained more.....until the sky turned black and the thunderstorm came in. I packed up after a quick breakfast and tea and proceeded to get drenched on the way out. It was nice that the temps were hot.
Here are some pics from the trip.
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