Fri, Apr 18 2008, Sat, Apr 19 2008, Sun, Apr 20 2008 - Backpack Western Uplands - Algonquin (View Original Event Details)
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Wow. What an amazing way to start the Spring backpacking season! On this trip nothing went according to plan. Yet everyone had fun and went home with a big smile :)
The plan was to do the 1st loop of the Western Uplands trail. Upon arriving at the trailhead and crossing the bridge we could easily see the beginning of the trail. Under 2 feet of water. Cold, cold water. After playing there for a while we decided to implement Plan B - the Highland backpacking trail. According to the park ranger it was in better shape. A quick drive back to the West Gate to update the permits and off we went again.
Early season conditions on the Highland trail were challenging, with lots of deep mud, flooded sections, and snow. The weather, however, has been perfect at a sunny 20*C. After a few hours on the trail we decided to look for a campsite. Upon arriving at the first prospective campsite we discovered it was already occupied. With lots of backpackers. Who could be taking such a large group on the trail so early? TOC, of course! It was Julian's group. We exchanged greetings and went off looking for another campsite. The one we found has been absolutely perfect. It was dry and had lots of space for our tents and gear. This was to be our home for the next day.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the warm, clear night on the lake. Jessie and Stacy brought great food and everyone helped out. A few with cooking. Most with eating. Loud laughter could be heard around the campfire all night.
On Sunday we backpacked out, left the packs at the cars and hiked the Bat Lake trail. We completed the trip with a dinner at a local restaurant and set in for the drive home. Thanks to everyone who participated. The teamwork was great. I hope to meet everyone again soon!
Have some photos from this event that you'd like to share in our photo album? Please forward them to Erik Sonstenes at photos@torontooutdoorclub.com. Please note that we prefer to receive the photos in approximately 640x480 or 750x500 pixels - do NOT send original high-res photos. If you have a LOT of photos, please submit up to twenty of your favorites (only) for a day event, or up to forty of your favourites for a multi-day event. Thank you.