Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters

Aurora Borealis

2012-01-20T17:16:00.000-08:00

This afternoon we received the following e-mail from The Geophsical Institute at the University of Alaska: "The solar events occurred on Jan. 18/19, 2012. The first two were small and of short duration. The last one was a coronal mass ejection associated with a long-duration solar flare from the northeast quadrant of the Sun. The location is such that the event is not facing Earth directly, but the intensity, duration and development are such that it will lead to increased auroral activity on this weekend.
The shock and the effects should reach Earth as early as 6 am GMT the 21st. This is approximately 10 hours from the time of this message." I quickly checked with the National Weather Service for a cloud forecast and found; "Tonight, mostly clear, with a low around -20. Wind Chill values between -25 and -30." Guess I will stay up till midnight to look for the Northern Lights. But at -20, I won't be looking for very long!

2012-01-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was glorious here on the Gunflint Trail. We made a trip into town and were amazed at the number of vehicles we met coming up the Trail. The South Brule parking lot was full and vehicles and snowmobile trailers were parked along the roadway.

At first we thought that people were parking at the Brule River area and snowmobiling into the vegetable lakes (onion, bean, carrot, celery, etc.) for the winter trout opener. Then we observed that all of the parking areas between Poplar Lake and Grand Marais that were near a snowmobile trail were full of vehicles and trailers. We finally decided that having snow was the main reason for all of the snowmobile traffic.

We have had a mild winter. The cold portion of the winter is behind us and we are now moving into the period when we get heavier snowfalls. We came home with a truck full of groceries, ordered a refill for our propane tank and settled in to watch a playoff game with a renewed appreciation for our life here on the Gunflint Trail. If the weekend invasion leaves this evening maybe we can go to Trail Center for the rib night special.

2012-01-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

A unique Boundary Waters fishing season opened with the start of the New Year. For a few hardy fishermen willing to hike, snowshoe or ski into the BWCAW the winter Late Trout season is open! This gives anglers an opportunity to experience the solitude of a secluded wilderness lake while enjoying a day surrounded by nothing by silence and a light winter's snow.

Many of the better Boundary Waters lakes for fishing Lake Trout are just a portage away from civilization. However, getting there is only part the adventure that comes from fishing these lakes. What makes ice fishing for Lake Trout so special is knowing that there is a really good chance of catching a big one.

The Lake Trout and Stream Trout season for lakes outside the BWCA runs from January 14th through March 31st. Some of the advantages of fishing these lakes include: they are very accessible, you can use power augers and on those really cold days there is a warm retreat nearby -- either a vehicle or a cozy cabin.

Ice fishing is an outdoor activity that is enjoyed by many who live in the Northland. When the fishing seasons for Walleye and Northern Pike are closed we still have a month before the Lake Trout season closes. You might want to give it a try!

2011-12-30T16:07:00.000-08:00

First time visitors to the Gunflint Trail often arrive with a cell phone in hand. One of their first questions is "don't you have cell phone coverage?" quickly followed by "How can you live without a cell phone?" Believe us when we say that a much more difficult problem is keeping our computer updated while living nearly "off the grid".

We returned home after an abbreviated Christmas trip to discover that our computer had picked up some unwanted guests. After 5 hours of downloading support programs we discovered that our current Internet security system was not current. Another 3 hours of computer downloading and we finally reached a 115 MB security program update that promised to evict our unwanted guests. We started the program and discovered that it would only take another 23 hours to complete the download. Living with Internet delivered computer program updates and dial-up service is not something we recommend!

Wednesday we unplugged our computer and took it to town where the local computer guru has high speed Internet access. Of course it snowed all day and again today when we went back to town to retrieve our computer. We got to enjoy driving through a winter postcard that is the Gunflint Trail.

I suspect getting our computer fixed after 3 hours of driving time and a day spent without a computer was still faster that what would have happened if we continued to update it using dial-up.

Winter Lights

2011-12-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

Anyone who has ever drove up the Gunflint Trail after dark on a cloudy night knows the true meaning of dark --we're talking "can't see you hand in front of your face" here. After driving through a tunnel of dark with only headlights to guide us along we were surprised to see a Christmas Tree glowing in the distance. The only lights to be seen anywhere were from our headlights and the Christmas lights on this tree. We just had to stop and take a picture.

The first thing we noticed after stopping and turning off our headlights was that there is no sound from a hidden generator -- just quiet and dark. No houses, no traffic, no people, and of course no street lights. This tree stands shining along the Trail and begs you to pause and reflect on the important things in life.

After spending a few minutes to enjoy the tree and each other's company we got back in the truck and continued on. We went home so that others would have a chance to enjoy the solitude of the wilderness in the presence of this special tree. Judging by the footprints along the roadway we were not the first to stop near this tree.

Thanks Mr. P.

Animals Looking For Food and Fun

2011-12-11T16:37:00.000-08:00

With snow covering the ground and the departure of our summer guests we are starting to have animal visitors that are looking for food. The Martin in this picture is looking for sunflower seeds that might have dropped down from our bird feed -- or maybe he is looking for a mouse that might live under the steps below the bird feeder.

Earlier, this same Martin was playing nose tag with our cat. The Martin was outside running from one patio door window to another. The cat was inside running from window to window to touch the glass opposite the Martin. Definitely an exciting three minutes for all of us!

This morning there was a black wolf walking up the lake looking for food. People were calling neighbors with pets to warn them that a wolf was on the prowl. We see lots of wildlife action in the off season -- especially when the snow is not deep enought to keep the animals from searching our property for food.

Late Projects

2011-11-22T16:17:00.000-08:00

For those friends and guests who think that our work day ends when the Lodge is closed -- think again. Work on the new sewer treatment system delayed closing down our water treatment room. The valve that we use to drain the waterline from the lake to the water treatment room was under 4 inches of ice and a foot of water. A pair of hip waders and a splitting maul made short work out of resolving this problem. Hopefully, this picture will remind Mike to do this job next year before ice on!

The new sewer system for Cabins #2 and #3 is nearly completed. We still have to get electrical service to three lift pumps and two alarm systems. Testing the system by pumping water will probably be put on hold until next Spring! We will also have to reroute waterlines around the new system before the Cabins can be opened.

Lake Access Problem

2011-11-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Mike helped a neighbor who was netting Whitefish on Poplar Lake. There was a strong cold wind, lots of waves, numb hands, a few male Whitefish and plenty of really cold water. The best part of the netting experience was the warm mug of hot chocolate when they returned to shore. The worst part of the experience was having to clean a bucket of slimy, smelly, ice cold Whitefish.

Later the local fox population enjoyed a hearty evening meal and the boys were thinking that Whitefish "caviar" would show up in a couple of days. THEN, this morning the sheltered bay in front of our house was froze over and covered with a light coat of snow.

The main part of the lake is still open but getting to it is difficult. For now the net has been pulled and the boat motor has been put away. The boys are hoping for warmer weather, strong winds and a second chance for "caviar". Also talking about setting a net under the ice when it gets thick enough to support them.

Changing Seasons

2011-11-09T16:33:00.000-08:00

We're moving into "Closed" season. This was the most challenging "Ice Off" season that Lin and I have ever experience since becoming lodging hosts. We have to thank all of our neighbors and guests who have helped us get past Lin's health problems and beyond my general confusion. Lin is improving daily and we'll both be here next Spring, spiritually refreshed and ready to welcome everyone back to the wilderness that we enjoy.

While going to therapy this morning we noticed these trees blooming along the side of the road. It is too early to be a sign of Spring and April first is five months away. Does anyone know what we are seeing? The "blooming" trees are growing in a low wetland area and the flowers are actually seeds.

Hello Mr. fox

2011-10-20T22:27:00.000-07:00

As the cold approaches and Rockwood’s human guests are leaving, Rockwood’s animal guests are moving back in.

Lin took this fox photo while standing on our deck between him and his path to freedom. They didn’t seem to mind one another at all.

The snow shoe hares are starting to turn white already and our cat Mercy is enjoying a huge new sand pile that will be our new sanitary mound within the week.

A 3500 gallon tank farm has been planted between Cabin 2 and the Lodge and we have run a line from the tanks to the mound. I’m still putting in 9 hour days which closely matches our available daylight so have been unable to get out for a fishing report. I am guessing they are back now too.

Will work on that soon.

Thank You Canadian Jays

2011-10-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

It took the ruffling of feathers and sound of angry wasps for me to notice something at Rockwood that has obviously been a few weeks in the making.

This wasp nest was bigger than my head and not more than 5 feet away from it as I hiked the road up towards the bunkhouse. I turned the corner and needed to yield to three Canadian Jays who were attacking the nest in an obvious team effort.

First, they spent over a solid hour catching and eating the wasps as they flew out of the hole. A few of the mid-air skirmishes were intense and there had to be a few stings along the way. The Jays then tore a hole in the back of the nest and got down to the serious business of eating the remaining wasp larvae inside the monster nest.

I have never been much of a Jay fan; however, it was very nice to not have to worry about getting stung taking this nest down. Now I know to throw some seed down around the next nest I find.

Autumn Colors

2011-10-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

Was a beautiful day today, 76 degrees, and it has been a fantastic week. With the Pagami Creek Fire reportedly 70% contained, it is much more relaxing to soak in the amazing fall colors of the Gunflint Trail. What an amazing place. Dad says the colors are as vibrant as they have been in years, and Mom says the colors were real nice on her trek to Two Harbors this week.

The various shades of yellow, orange, and red than you ever dreamed possible and more than our camera can handle. With only a little wind one afternoon you can see some places that have dropped their leaves - but there are thousands of more areas on their way to full color right behind any patches that have fallen to the forest floor.

One thing is for certain, no two car trips on the Trail are identical these days. As these photos from the same journey show, the views change each minute and around every curve. Reminds us all that nature provides the ultimate canvas, and it is Good!

Very Special Guests in Cabin 7 This Week

2011-09-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

While walking to the Lodge, Dad just happened to notice this Cow and Calves swimming straight across Poplar Lake this week. He had time to watch for awhile and then went to grab Mom and the camera. The wet, four hoofed threesome sauntered around the dock at Cabin 7 long enough for this photo and proceeded to walk up towards the cabin as if they were guests.

Not more than 10 minutes later... A bull moose proceeded to swim across the lake in almost the exact same line as mama and the kiddos. Hmmm... Rutting season is upon us. I've posted a photo of "Swimming Bull" on the Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters Facebook so you may view that side of the story by becoming a friend of and Liking that Facebook page.

Dad says there are moose hunters in the bunkhouse this week who mentioned this evening that they saw a cow and two calves just down the road. What Mike did not tell them was that the family of three has been sleeping near the warmth of Cabin 7 all week. Shhh - Swimming Bull must be nearby ;)

You may also notice in the photo that the trees are beginning to change quickly on the Gunflint. Mom told me they are as pretty as they have been in years. I've asked for a good photo so I may see myself and will certainly share it with each of you. She is tired, but doing well and determined as ever.

Mark

Live! From Rockwood Lodge

2011-09-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

I just had the urge to type that since I am up here helping out.

What a great day today. Lin had her surgery this morning and the Dr.'s called it a success. She is recovering nicely, Mike is there and says she sounds better tonight than last night. We were very worried about the procedure and this is a huge relief. If she continues to recover well there is a chance they'll be home Friday. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers - they are felt.

Today is a beautiful day up here, I took pictures but can't find the USB cord to upload them to this computer. I've been watching the TV coverage of the Pagami Lake fire, but have yet to see any signs of the smoke since I have been here. Mike and Lin said we had a little the other day - but its been a beautiful scattered fluffy cloud kind of day, very pretty. There is no doubt this has been a big fire and we are very hopeful they get it snuffed soon. Access points are closed on the west side of the Gunflint Trail as of Wednesday to keep people safe, but we still have folks out in that area and they are not being forced back out. Meanwhile - new groups are gobbling up access points ono the east side of the Gunflint. We have no word yet how long the access points will continue to be closed. We get the same information anyone can get on the monnesota DNR wildfire page, but the Live view I can narrate right now is another beauty day at Rockwood.

I did get a jolt yesterday morning though when I arrived. Right when I reached Trail Center the snowflakes began to fall - then sleet - then bigger snowflakes. I took pictures of that too as you see here, although mostly to show off back home in Kansas City next week.

Let's hope the snow and sleet if it returns falls on the fire and ends that thing.

Later,

Mark

Lin Update and Grand Marais Family Tips

2011-09-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

First, and most importantly, a Lin update.

Mom is doing better each and every day, conversations are getting longer and easier and I think her spirits remain high. Definitely some frustration at how slow things progress, but fully recognizing that gradual progress is a positive thing. The hospital finally decided to schedule corrective surgery for Thursday, September 15th. All is expected to go well, and the goal is to prevent another stroke from ever occurring. Typically, one night in hospital afterwards. I'll be trying my hand at keeping Rockwood Lodge a special place when Mike stays there with Lin. We feel your support and prayer - thank you.

Has been awhile since the last post here and we still have a couple of photo shoots from our adventures in 2011 in the BWCA to share. I have decided this time to let everyone know that young families can find fun in Grand Marais with relative ease.

First stop for us on a day trip during the week is typically the Grand Marais light house. Even when the spot light is not on young boys flock to it like flies in the dark. Sometimes, you get lucky and have the treat of a sea plane coming or going into the harbor.

Next, you march out toward the picturesque Artist Point for panoramic views of Lake Superior and the North Shore. The rocks provide plenty of opportunity for exploring, photography, drawing, and in our case young boy energy release. We've yet to be there for sunrise or sunset, but can only imagine how much more the colors contrast. If you happen to have a sunrise/set photo from here we'd love to see it posted on the Rockwood Facebook page.

One of our family traditions in Grand Marais is a snack at the World's Greatest Doughnuts. What a great area to license plate hunt for State's you missed on the trip. We typically burn a few of the new calories with some rock skipping into Superior just about 100 yards to the east of WGD. There appears to be an endless supply of perfect skipping rocks every time.

Lastly, as we end up the Gunflint Trail, no Grand Marais visit is complete without taking a few moments to stop and glance over the harbor from the top of the lookout on the mountain. I think a lot of visitors miss this view point, Gunflint Trail visitors should not.

Laughter in the Trees

2011-08-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

During one of my son's many trips in and out of the Lodge he promptly returned to announce that a very loud bird was laughing at him from somewhere above. This theme recurred throughout our visit and normally we all tend to get a laugh out him so we thought nothing of it.

Much to our surprise, later in the week we were standing outside and there was definitely laughter directly above the Lodge. Mike looked up first to find 3 youthful hawks clearly chattering as their mother was apparently nearby. They did indeed sound like they were laughing at a grandson, or in this case, a grandfather, but they were most likely just in eyesight of their mother or father in hopes of food. The sight begged the question, "What do you call baby hawks?".

A hatchling, chick or nestling would be acceptable but not specific to a hawk and these babies were a little past a hatchling phase so the most accepted term for the young would be eyass (pronounced "EYE-ess").

And there you have it, Rockwood Lodge has been home to three eyass this summer and if their camouflage prevents you from viewing them, just walk quietly around until you make them laugh at you.

A Fun Filled Week at Rockwood Lodge

2011-07-31T13:54:00.000-07:00

The weather was so cooperative last week that Mom and I never sat down to blog together. But we did have time to talk and share in many experiences.

First and most importantly, Mindy, Josh, Jordan and I had a safe trip and were fortunate to be able to bring Lin's Mom along with us for the visit. Highlights of the week included a campout, swimming, Jordan's first Northern Pike, a family canoe trip, a few moose sightings and a trip to Grand Marais.

Mike and Lin are doing well. Its the busiest time of the season, yet we still managed to find time to be family. I was super pleased with how well Mom is recovering. She is able to read and is now writing words again which is a huge improvement. She has conversations with guests at the Lodge and is in very good spirits. Some times the words just do not come, but the meaning usually does. As mom said herself, "My mind is fine, the application is lousy."

Each day of our trip had a completely different adventure to it that we will try and chronicle here over the next few posts. As we have returned to the 100 degree heat of the Heartland we miss greatly the spectacular views of the BWCA, Lake Superior, and perhaps most of all the fact that a Moose crossed our path on the Gunflint Trail on our way home.

Mark

Hot!

2011-07-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

The temperature hit 100 degrees here in Kansas City today so I thought I’d call up to Rockwood to hear about a typical refreshing 74 degree Northwoods summer day. I quickly find out from both Mom and Dad that the temperature was over 90 there and that sleeping at the house – without air conditioning – is not anything they are looking forward to this evening. We’ll let them have a sympathy vote for one night; but, I don’t think a hot night in the suburb truly compares to one in the boundary waters.

We do however have central air here!

Has been awhile since a post but the news has been good. Mom is heading to Two Harbors for therapy twice a week and is making progress although I think the therapy of friends and visitors on the Gunflint Trail do more good than any therapist to date. There are definitely more words each and every day and our conversations are getting longer. I think she’s doing great and am very anxious for Mindy (my wife) and the boys and I to get up and visit next week for our family vacation. I know Mom is too, and I can tell she is practicing her drills to prepare for a week of grandson activity. What better therapy than her 4^th and 6^th grade grandsons?

I am hopeful to get the chance to make the next post with Mom from Rockwood Lodge as she is far more talented at this than I. At some point, I suspect Mike will change the password on me, particularly if I compare the BWCA to the suburbs again. I am confident though that anyone following this blog knows there is no comparison and that we all know where we would prefer to be in July and August.

Stay cool everyone.

Back Home

2011-07-05T19:21:00.001-07:00

Dad snuck Mom out of Duluth last Saturday to spend a refreshing day at Rockwood Lodge. The news spread rapidly along the trail and I am told there were many neighbors stopping in for a visit.

After returning to Miller-Dwan for two days, she was dismissed from in-patient therapy and came home this evening. We are all very relieved and happy. Mom is diagnosed with aphasia and will learn to overcome the challenges it poses with time, patience, and continued therapy. Dad said she was up and already putting life jackets away during her first trip home.

While no follow up surgery date is set yet, she will begin trips twice a week to Two Harbors for continued speech therapy.

Thanks again for all the support. Still praying for a speedy recovery.

Lin Update

2011-06-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

We thank each of you so much for your concern, prayers and signs of support this past week. Lin (mom) improves a little each day and is up and moving under her own power. Speech therapy continues to be the primary focus and, as frustrating as it is, we recognize it will take time for her to recover her gift of words!

The plan now is for her to continue at least another week of in-patient rehabilitation at Miller-Dwan. Mom wants to be back home at Rockwood as soon as possible, and Dad would second that, but everyone acknowledges that the best thing for her now is as much therapy as possible. When it is time to get back home, there will be numerous return trips to Duluth for therapy and follow-ups. Those of you closest to Rockwood and are able can be a huge help at that time. Looking a few more weeks down the road, we are all upbeat about the prognosis and recovery associated with a corrective surgery to widen her carotid artery to prevent this from recurring again.

Please continue to keep Mom and Dad in your prayers. It is truly felt and appreciated!

Mark Sherfy

Guest Blogger

2011-06-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard that Lin experienced a mild stroke last week. After spending the weekend and recovering well at St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, she moved to the Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center on Monday. Miller-Dwan is a wonderful facility and an excellent place to get her back to Rockwood Lodge as soon as possible. We do not have any idea yet how long this rehabilitation stay will be.

Lin’s biggest challenge will be managing the gradual return of speech. Her memory and ability to understand were not significantly impacted; but, it is frustrating right now to know what you want to say and not have many words. Miller-Dwan will be scheduling her days this week with little time for breaks and have informed us she will be exhausted. For these reasons we ask that phone calls please be reserved only for family.

Mike and Rockwood Lodge are being swarmed with support and it has been appreciated. A huge thanks for all who pitched in the past week to keep Rockwood as wonderful as ever. Rockwood’s neighbors and the Gunflint Trail community have also come up strong. We are truly grateful for the wonderful patience of our patrons last week, and in the weeks to come.

We gladly accept prayers for healing and rest. Lin told me herself that, “This too will pass.” Mike has been getting some rest and we all know Rockwood is such a peaceful place for that. It is my intent to post periodic updates here as things improve. Thank you for your concern, thoughts and help.

Mark (Mike and Lin’s son)

Cards or flowers may be sent this week too:

Linda Sherfy, c/o Miller-Dwan Rehabilitation Center, Room 220 - Bed 2, 502 E. Second Street, Duluth, MN 55805

June

2011-06-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

Carl and Mike have been and gone... and we miss them! All sorts of wonderful things got done... and there are, as usual, a few things left for next time - but thanks, guys! Carl took this incredible photo of the canoe outfitting building one morning - perfect, no?

Our first student helper - Nurick - arrived Thursday evening and is working hard. It's a little hard to be the first student arrival at mid-trail - it's lonely, for one thing! - but he'll also be the one who can help out all the new arrivals next week. Our second student arrives on the 13th.

The lilacs are trying to bloom! Some years - especially ones that have been as chilly as this one - they don't bloom till 4th of July - so maybe we simply missed spring and are proceeding directly to summer this year?

Spring has arrived!

2011-05-23T13:17:00.000-07:00

The ice is out, the flowers are (starting) to bloom - mostly dandelions, plus those odd purple things that look vaguely familiar, and this morning the white shrub by the house driveway burst into bloom! The rain we got the last couple days has really helped - grass is growing, leaves are popping - and I've been hearing about a few walleyes and northern getting caught.

And our friends Carl and Mike are here helping Mike - thanks, guys!

Endangered Species...

2011-05-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

If you ever wondered how some critters make it on to the official Endangered Species List... well, I guess this goes a ways to explain it! There must be well over a thousand trees within fifty yards of this busy bird and surely half of them have more insect life than this treated power relay pole? Our intelligence-challenged friend here has been pecking away at this pole on and off all week.

In the meantime, his mate has been equally busy in a big old birch behind Cabin 4; so far she's got three and a half nesting holes made and she's spent the week pecking away inside the tree. We need a "Pileated Pod" or something to film the life cycle of our family of pileated woodpeckers, don't we?

Our loon has been busy today greeting our guests and escorting them across the bay towards their portages. Nice to have loons calling again!

ICE OUT!

2011-05-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

When we came home from our annual "see how many things the resort needs that you can cram into a Chevy Impala" trip today... the ice was gone! We have WAVES! No sunshine, at least not this evening... but the waves are beautiful!

Motion, music and melting

2011-05-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

The ice is breaking up! It's moving around the lake in big chunks - one minute the canoe launch is all iced in as it is now, come back in 15 minutes and the ice has moved somewhere else, leaving a little pile of long thin crystals of ice piled on the shore. Another 20 minutes - here it is back again!

One of the neat things about this crystal ice is that as the wind blows against the edge, it makes a sound like ice rattling in a glass - this is one of the "sounds of fall" as the ice forms and an even better "sound of spring" as it disappears!

We've been working hard the past week - the water is on in all the cabins and bunkrooms, the canoes are out in the yard where they belong, cleaning is underway, tree planting is underway, - work season is UNDERWAY! :)

Mike and I drove up to the Iron Lake Campground Sunday - no ice to be seen on Iron Lake! There were, however, more moose tracks in the campground and on up the Old Gunflint Trail than I've seen in a long time - lots and lots and LOTS of moose tracks! There's even one wandering past Rockwood the last day or so!

Beautiful Day

2011-05-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous, sunny day today - windy though, so not exactly warm. Mike saw a couple black and white ducks enjoying the open water in front of outfitting this morning, I wasn't so lucky, but isn't it beautiful? I agree, it would be nicer if it were all blue rather than blue and ice, but ...

I've been putting stuff together for cabins, Mike's been working on the water system - we have water in the apartment/laundry room now! Fishing opener is coming fast!

Why you may not see a moose...

2011-04-25T08:28:00.001-07:00

The moose are trying something new this year! Camouflage, yet! I've never seen moose this color - sort of a dirty white with lots of light brown - perfect for hiding in the woods this time of year. Can you spot the two moose in this photo?

We drove up the trail for our "Easter Treat" - and spotted these moose between Seagull and Sag enjoying lunch. There's quite a bit of open water at the Seagull landing - lots of ducks too. Sag landing didn't have as much open, no ducks, but far more than Poplar does. Of course we're at a much higher elevation, so we stay frozen longer.

The Cross River is also open, flowing great - all in all, there's a lot more open ground up the trail than there is here and between here and Grand Marais, but the forecast is for warmer temperatures and maybe some rain, which should open us up fairly quickly. I can tell the lake ice has changed... there are a few rotten spots, so it's at least "thinking" about melting.

A milestone!

2011-04-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

Mike managed to get the truck down to outfitting and the water room today. Not that the snow is gone, by any means, and not that it isn't a rather exciting ride (especially through the deep snow by the canoe yard!) but we got there. And more to the point, the big shipping boxes that have been overflowing the house - new tents, new sleeping bags, tarps, packs, towel sets - are out of the house and - put away in outfitting and the water room. Wow!

As Mike says, "Gee, I can see the back door now!"

With any luck the ruts we cut in two round trips will help the snow melt faster and we'll be able to get some work done down there next week?

Just for fun, here's our Snowshoe Easter Bunny sitting in a bare patch (before last weekend's 7-9 inches of new snow) - he's starting to change color for summer - Joyous Easter to all of you!

Poplar Lake ice at Rockwood

2011-04-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

It was a little cooler (ok, a lot cooler) this morning so we don't have the two feet of open water at the canoe launch today... but you can see how thick the ice is two feet from shore! At least the beach launch area is free of snow - finally!

Mike and I have been doing a lot of walking, getting in shape for the season, and watching for signs of spring. The snowshoe hares are getting speckles of brown in their white coats, the crazy frittilary butterflies are fluttering around (how do they keep from freezing at night?), a few lonely pussy willows are starting to bloom, the martins are very active, and last night I saw something I'm not sure what it was ... just saw the hindquarters of an animal walking into the woods, about the size of a fox but grey-light brown black speckled fur and no tail that I noticed. Do you suppose we have a bobcat around?

It worked!

2011-04-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

We got a heavy rain last night and Mike's hard work shoveling that drainage ditch paid off!

Dreaming of Spring

2011-04-05T13:50:00.002-07:00

Spring will arrive sooner or later, right? In the meantime, we've still got our share of snow, and it has really piled up behind the apartment-water building. So Mike's been clearing a drainage channel the last few days - it's quite a job since the snow drifts over his head and the building is only about 45 feet long! You can see behind him how it was piled up against the building. Yesterday we got about seven inches of new snow, since it's April, the snow is much heavier and wetter! One of our neighbors promptly got his snowmobile out and took off for an all day ride. We're actually seeing temperatures in the mid thirties though, so spring will get here eventually. It should be gorgeous when it arrives - we're melting slowly enough that when we start to green up - we should stay green. It's going to be a wonderful summer!

Rockwood gardening 2

2011-03-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

Just over a month ago Mike brought my dead-looking geraniums upstairs and I've been feeding and watering and generally "nursing" them all month... here are the same ones I put on the blog early in the month (Thinking Spring/Feb. 28) - aren't they looking great? I keep hearing from my friends in the "banana belt" about dafodills etc. popping up and blooming - and I have to agree, seeing something green and growing is good for what ails us after a long winter!

The woodpeckers have been busy this past week, which is another sign of spring - I'm seeing quite a bit of "new home construction" in a couple of aspen trees near the house!

We're starting to get a lot of calls about canoe trips and cabins :) ... so it's probably time to do some serious vacation planning if you have a specific date in mind!

Gardening challenge

2011-03-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

Gardening - flowers or veggies - is a bit of a challenge around here in the Big Woods! Earlier today I "prepped" the planters that go in the apartment building window boxes... pulled out all the dead plants, stirred up the soil, and put it outside to weather a bit before I plant new seeds.

The immediate result? Instant red squirrel digging happily away looking for last year's seed pods - and a deeply interested cat on the other side of the window, ready to spring over my indoor flower pots in pursuit of the squirrel and accidentally break off as many of the new geraniums sprouting in those planters as get in the way!

And, of course, any of my perennials that are stupid enough to pop up (won't happen for another month or so - we've still got a LOT of snow on the ground) will get eaten by fresh greens-starved snowshoe hares and the occasional moose. I guess this will be another year I rely on friends from less animal-populated areas for my peppers and tomatoes!

Winter baskets

2011-03-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

I've had some friends ask how my winter art project is coming along, so thought I'd share this photo of this year's pine needle baskets (so far). It was a good year for needles - nice and long... the weather really makes a difference. Two years ago we had a lot of rain over the summer and the needles were the longest I've ever seen, last year wasn't as wet, but wetter than the dry year three years ago! I was able to find more small pine cones this year - I'm not sure why! Each basket takes from 10 to 30 hours to make, so it does keep my hands occupied and my mind wandering most of the winter! The needles and cones, of course, all come from around here, so they make great reminders of the BWCA and Rockwood!

March

2011-03-06T09:16:00.001-08:00

Pretty quiet around here these days, though there have been a few more snowmobiles around the last week or so. I hear there are a few crappies getting caught across from the resort as well as a few walleye! Mike's antique sled doesn't like the deep snow, so he hasn't been out.

Lots of snow... an inch or so at a time, it's snowing lightly right now. The forecast calls for more as the week progresses - must be March? Our little red squirrels have tunnels all over the yard, here's one popping up to check for whatever's around - he apparently has carried sunflower seeds from beneath the feeder down to his entry hole. All of a sudden we have squirrels all over, sometimes they meet in the tunnels and you hear squirrel battles, followed by a very angry squirrel popping up at both ends! The birds are flocking, and Mike says he saw a Canada Jay carrying nesting materials yesterday. Spring is coming... just very slowly!

Thinking spring

2011-02-28T13:50:00.000-08:00

Seeing as it's almost March, Mike had a busy morning hauling pots up from the basement - and I had a busy rest of the day trimming, cutting back, and watering last year's geraniums! They don't look like much right now, but with a little love and attention, a little fertilizer and a lot of sunshine - we'll have plenty of flowers again this year. I brought the begonias up last week and they've already started a few little sprouts too.

March is the month we think spring and shovel snow around here! I'm glad we have the big south facing living room - it makes a great greenhouse. And having a bit of green - well, not that I don't like snow, I just like seeing green this time of year!

Interesting information

2011-02-19T10:24:00.000-08:00

The statistics for the 2011 permit lottery have come from the Forest Service and they're interesting! There were 9,189 applications for permits this year - that's for the whole BWCA, not just the Gunflint side - 132 more than last year. A lot of them - almost half - were for day use motor permits, and about half of them didn't get their permits. There were 3099 overnight paddle permits awarded and only 28 didn't get permits.

We also got a list from the Forest Service showing where and when permits were used in 2010 on the Gunflint Trail entry points. August is definitely the busiest month. In May there were 456 permits, June 901, July 1142, August 1619, and September 326. One of our most popular entry points, Lizz Lake, breaks down with 21 permits in May, 87 June, 102 July, 114 in August and 43 September. If you want to avoid the crowds - I guess September is the perfect time!

We enjoyed the thaw this week but did not enjoy the brisk winds that ended it. The National Weather Service has a new symbol for days like Thursday and Friday - a whole row of wind turbines with the word "Blustery" under them. That about covers it - there was a LOT of wind and a little snow just to polish the ice. We still have a couple feet of snow on the ground - wet snow during the thaw, crusty hard snow now. Plenty of winter left ahead, I guess!

Winter Geology

2011-02-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

We've been watching the snow compact itself this week... the piles are getting shorter and shorter. They can't be melting - we haven't been more than a degree or two above zero all month - but the snow is definitely getting denser. This afternoon I noticed that you can more or less see the lines on the edge of the path to the house from every time Mike's had the snowblower out!

The shoveling lines remind me of the road cuts along Highway 61 on the way to Duluth - everyone has noticed them - but our summer guests may be interested to see the ice waterfalls. We think they're kind of neat.

It sure seems odd to watch the national weather service web site and know that most of the rest of the country is having our kind of winter this year. I can't say we've got cabin fever - quite - but we're grateful for neighbors and town and the public library!

Deer Crossing #2

2011-02-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

I went down to Duluth with my neighbor yesterday on a special errand - my job on these trips is "designated deer spotter" and, just for fun, I was looking for more of our "deer jumping OUT of the road" signs. This one is just over the line into Lake County. Anyway, a little ways past the sign, I spotted brown legs jumping over the snow pile at the edge of the road a ways ahead and called "deer, on the left, brakes!" as designated deer spotters are supposed to... My friend braked with plenty of room - and as the big brown animal crossed the road I said "gee, that deer's moving funny?"

My friend half turned to me and said, "Lin, that's a wolf." It was, too, a big brown wolf trotting off down off the side of the road like he owned it.

We're all thinking that maybe my special errand was a little important - aren't you glad I have new glasses? We are!

Snow removal

2011-01-28T10:10:00.000-08:00

Mike's been busy this week. We figure we've gotten around 60 inches of snow this winter (so far) and none of it has melted. Since the packed snow weighs about 30 pounds a square foot... and since he did break down and get me my new(er) car this fall... he spent a day this week clearing several tons of snow off the carport roof. At least it was good exercise?

I've been working on our outfitting food order for the summer, which has to be sent in early next month. Mike's new packs and map cases are here, tents and sleeping bags are on order. Despite the weather forecast for today (blizzard warning for the Arrowhead) we're thinking and planning and getting ready for spring!

BIG Visitors!

2011-01-23T13:35:00.001-08:00

Mike took the snowmobile down to the lodge this noon - he's trying to pack a path so we can get through the thigh-deep snow and maybe shovel some of it off the lodge roof. Along the way he noticed that someone - maybe two someones - had been hiking the length of Rockwood Road - who on earth would hike through such deep snow when they could walk on the reasonably well-plowed Gunflint Trail?

So... he came back to the house, got me and the camera, and we decided to drive down the Gunflint Trail to the Grand Marais end of Rockwood Road to see where our hikers came from. (I'm waiting for a packed trail before I start hiking through the resort!)

Once we got to the first Rockwood sign - it was pretty obvious! A pair of moose walked along the Trail, decided that our road looked like a better bet (?) and slid and strode their way down the steep ditch behind Cabin 7 and then walked down the road, past the cabins, past the lodge, past outfitting, all the way up to our house! They stepped over the fence between our land and Austin's next door like it wasn't even there and continued down Austin's Landing.

Apparently they were very active last night (as well as very quiet) - we saw tracks on the other side of the Trail wandering around the neighbor's yards as well.

It's fun to know the moose are around - we've seen a few along the Trail - but this is the first pair we've literally had in our back yard in a while. It's snowing pretty hard right now - and blowing - so the tracks won't last long.

BWCA permits and flying squirrels

2011-01-20T10:06:00.000-08:00

Clipper (or just possibly Claus) is back! Apparently she/he was pretty hungry last night as she didn't mind posing for photos - of course, it's a little difficult to get a good photo when with flash when it's really dark outside - and snowing (as usual). He really cleared out the seeds in the feeder though, it was totally empty this morning. I haven't seen tracks on the roof since around Christmas, I think she's going from tree to tree now to get to the feeder.

The BWCA lottery permits were awarded this week - we had a first - one of our guests failed to get a permit! They were looking for August 1st, and apparently so were a lot of other people. That first week of August is historically the busiest time in the BWCA, if you can schedule your trip another time you'll have less crowding.

The regular permit system opened this morning and I've already gotten a permit for a group planning a trip for July 14. The more popular entry points (Lizz, Cross Bay, East Bearskin) go first, so it's time to start planning your summer canoeing. We're here - and we'd love to help you! It's a great distraction from all the snow everyone is getting, Mike is out right now for his every-other-day clear the driveway with the snowblower routine!

Rudolph the Deer Sign

2011-01-12T19:10:00.000-08:00

On our last trip to Duluth we noticed this delightful deer crossing sign (on Highway 61 near Cascade Lodge) so I brought the camera along today to share it with you!

Notice something else odd about it?

Yup, most of the deer crossing signs in Cook County (not all of them) are ... a little different from the ones in Lake County... well, in almost any other county between here and southern Missouri, at least by our informal survey when we went south this fall.

In Cook County, Minnesota, the deer jump OUT of the road instead of INTO the road!

Check it out yourselves!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

2011 is starting out just like 2010 ended - more snow! Guess we're all getting the same kind of weather? You can just see "Mike the Snowman" behind the tree at the center of this photo, clearing out the walk from the house to the road with his snowblower. It took him about two hours to clear Rockwood Road from the Gunflint Trail to the parking area, the parking area above our house, and the walkway down to the house... I don't use the stairs so he hasn't cleared them yet. I'm not sure how much snow we got over the last two days but enough... I hear snowmobiles on the trail on the other side of the road today, haven't seen any on the lake yet but I'm sure they'll be by.

The birds are really hitting the feeders, the squirrels have built tunnels under the snow for ease of access (to any seed that hits the ground) and the little animals are also around hoping for hand outs - we have our "daily fox" visits looking for any stray leftovers anyone wants to put up by the garage. I'm ready for a little sunshine, I've laid out my boots and long johns for some winter hiking - I'm told the ski trails are in great shape!

Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T13:09:00.000-08:00

It's so quiet, peaceful, and beautiful this morning I can almost hear the angels singing "peace on earth, good will to men." I hope your Christmas - and everyone's - brings peace and goodwill! And, possibly, just possibly, just a little less snow? Say, for a day or two or three till we get dug out from the last few snowfalls?

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-21T07:53:00.000-08:00

Best wishes for a wonderful Christmas from all of us at Rockwood!

It's been an interesting week, lots of snow flurries - missed the eclipse last night due to overcast sky, but the birds and the little furry critters are very active. The area Audubon Christmas bird count is just about over, I'd been wondering if it was just my feeder that the purple finches, redpolls and siskins were avoiding, but apparently they're all spending the holidays somewhere else, no one counting birds has seen them this week either. MercyCat is spending a lot of time in the window happily bird watching the ones we have!

We had a small "disaster" over the weekend - for some reason the passenger side window of the truck literally shattered into a few million pieces - surprise! No injury and the insurance company has already set up an appointment later this week to get it fixed, but what a nuisance. Guess we get one last chance for Christmas shopping!

Who says birdfeeders are for the birds?

2010-12-14T11:37:00.000-08:00

Here's our newest winter guest -a gorgeous little snowshoe hare who's decided that sunflower seeds are his diet of choice. He's not a bit nervous of people - or jays - he chased a blue jay away a while ago. I felt sorry for him and took him out some lettuce scraps - nope, the seeds under the feeder are much more to his liking. The jay, however, enjoyed the lettuce!

Home again

2010-12-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

It's wonderful to be home... three weeks plus in Iowa was a l...o...n...g time. However - I'm not sure I was ready for quite this much snow! While I was gone the lake froze (so did the house water line) and the snow kept falling... and falling... and falling - I gather Mike's had the snowblower out daily. I need to start feeding the birds (tomorrow?) but thought you might enjoy seeing just how much accumulated on TOP of the bird feeder. One thing - it's great weather for snowmobiling and cross country skiing!

Winter is getting here!

2010-11-20T08:37:00.000-08:00

Well, like everyone else in Minnesota, we got snow this past week... and now we're getting ice on the lake too. Swamper Lake (the one by the Moose Viewing Trail) was pretty much iced over when we went to town Thursday, but this is the first day we seen much ice on Poplar. It's been too windy for ice to form, but despite last night's wind - well, 17 degrees means ice - wind or no! Gorgeous day today, we're trying to keep the house warm with solar gain through the front windows and it's working pretty well.

Still have a bit to do to close the resort, Mike reports that a kevlar canoe covered with ice weighs a lot more than you might think! He's got all but one undercover now. I've got most of the Christmas shopping done, just need to do some wrapping.

Happy Thanksgiving, all!

Getting closer

2010-11-11T12:06:00.000-08:00

Winter's on its way and we're getting closer to being ready for it. The canoes we're keeping are "under cover" and we're making plans to haul the others away. I've got sheets over the windows in the lodge (keeps the sun off the canoes) and everything piled on the ends and edges to make room for canoes - amazing how much room a few 18-19 footers take! The bunkrooms and the apartment are also full of them... that's a lot of hauling for Mike.

The water tanks are almost drained (that last foot or so is a long process as trying to get a siphon going is a project and a half) but all the water mains and cabin water lines are dry. We had a bit of snow last week, but it didn't last long enough to count - when it counts, we'll be ready!

Winter's coming

2010-10-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy, busy month around here. We've (finally) got the water system drained, the cabins closed, the canoes pretty much indoors for the winter... we've had a lot of October guests this year - canoe parties enjoying the unusual weather. It's been warm and dry most of October (well, warm for here!).

That pretty much came to a screeching whoa this week - we finally got some rain, over four inches! followed by some snow (not much) and the temperatures dropped below freezing. The lake actually came up so that the measuring stick is back in the water after spending three months sitting in dirt! What with the warm - above freezing anyway - weather and the dry conditions things are a little confused - we have pussy willows budding out up by the shop. On the other hand, I saw one of the snowshoe hares last night and he has pretty white feet and a white belly already!

Where's "Waldo"?

2010-10-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

What an incredible October we're having! Mike had to stay up one night to keep the pipes open, otherwise it's been beautiful, warm, sunny... perfect weather. One of our canoe groups this past weekend even went swimming! When you remember that this time last year we had snow - lots of snow - this is hard to believe. We aren't pressing our luck, today we're closing the cabins for the winter; the apartment suite we'll keep open a while longer as it doesn't depend on above ground water lines.

Hunting season has been good too - lots of grouse around. Saturday morning I watched a male grouse displaying himself to two bemused females - neither of them were especially interested and I don't blame them - it is October after all! There are two grouse in this photo, hard to see among the leaves, aren't they! They were waiting for me at the lodge Sunday morning, not wanting a handout, just poking around in the rocks along the front wall. We're also seeing quite a few moose, snowshoe hares, foxes, and wolves along the trail. The leaves are pretty well fallen, but it's sure nice to be outdoors enjoying the Gunflint Trail and BWCA!

Saying goodbye

2010-09-28T14:20:00.001-07:00

One of the hardest things about having a resort is making new friends and then saying goodbye. With our wonderful guests, of course, we can keep in contact and there's always next summer! With our student assistants... well, Chen left for home a couple weeks ago and yesterday we said goodbye to Winnie. Both are headed back to school for their final year and then... whatever.

We were blessed with good kids this year - and we'll miss them! Hopefully they'll have wonderful school years and go on to great careers in their home country - but saying goodbye wasn't easy.

Now... Mike's starting to drain cabins, I'm cleaning them for the final weekend... and then? Winter's coming!

Last duck of the season at Rockwood

2010-09-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

Well, all of the smart ducks seem to have flown south for the winter, leaving poor "Quacker" behind. Quacker has no web between two of her toes, so maybe she got left out of the flock? Anyways, she's found a couple of bread toting duck feeders to keep her fed - here she is waiting patiently in front of the lodge for the next handout.

Things are quieting down a bit, lots of cabin guests but not as many canoe groups - enough to keep us busy, though! It's been chilly the last few mornings - no freeze yet, but some frost. Mike ordered insulation for water pipes and WinNe and I took all the flowers in yesterday, so we're getting ready for winter!

Gorgeous morning!

2010-09-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day! Fall is arriving... this morning the lake was warmer than the air, which produced this incredible view of our lakeshore - lots of mist, lots of sunshine - perfect canoeing weather!

How many big moose?

2010-08-31T06:30:00.000-07:00

First - THANKS to the guests - Paula, Cully, and Mark - who have made this FANTASTIC composite blog photo possible! August has been an incredible month for large moose sightings in our area (I haven't got a photo of the young bull yet!) After looking at these three big boys side by side - I think we have three of them around. All three are on different lakes/portages. What do you think?

Things are a bit quieter this week as we prepare for the holiday weekend. It's been windy and hot, but not as hot as further south and the lake breeze does cool things down a bit. It's still being a great summer!

FISH!

2010-08-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

A nice mess of crappies for supper from the crappie pond!

Rockwood's Bunkhouse

2010-08-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

We had some perfect painting weather this past week, so Mike and Chen got out Dad's old
paint sprayer and a five gallon bucket of stain and went to work on our bunkhouse. It looks GREAT - now it's as nice outside as it is inside!

So... today... they're taking a half day off and hauling a canoe over to the crappie pond on the other side of the lake. We've heard that the crappies are biting well - we're hoping for a fish dinner tonight!

Later: Rumor was right! Fish for supper!

Moose!...and crawdads

2010-08-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

One of our canoeing guests (thanks, Mark) met up with this gorgeous bull moose on his canoe trip this past week. They don't get much bigger than this one! He seems to be enjoying relaxing in the lake, doesn't he?

In the meantime, back at the lodge, we had an interesting experience... washed an aluminum canoe, put it back on the rack... and a bit later, heard an odd "scritching" noise coming from the nose. Our lightweight aluminum canoes have a metal plate in the nose with just enough side cuts for water to flow in and out, and the noise was definitely coming from behind the plate. Hummmmm. Mike took the pressure hose and sprayed into the cut... pretty soon a good-sized crawdad swam out! It took most of the day, but eventually we removed an even dozen crawdads from the nose of that canoe - somebody had a leaky bait bag for sure!

It's been busy, hot, and gorgeous up here this week - great weather and great guests!

August fun at Rockwood

2010-08-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

Well, it's being a really good month for canoeing at Rockwood. Here's the parking area in front of the lodge this morning - my car's there and Mike's truck is on the edge of the road, but there are nine canoe groups parked here - along with the four in the bunkhouse parking lot and the five or six up in the upper lot! The weather has been good, too, a little windy a couple days, but otherwise great for being out in the BWCA.

One of our cabin guests is enjoying bringing his coffee down to the outfitting building porch every morning and watching the organized confusion as the groups set off on their adventures. Today there were nine canoes - three groups - that left the beach before 8 a.m. - fun to watch and visit with people from all over the upper midwest! The cabins are full too, and most of them have been taking day trips into the BWCA, enjoying the nice weather. Mike and I are busy, but loving every minute of it.

Moose on Poplar Lake

2010-07-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share one of Don and Shari's great photos of their recent vacation at
Rockwood - they met one of our Poplar Lake moose! We had several of them wandering around earlier this month, now people are reporting seeing their tracks on the South Lake trail leading north from the resort, but not as many on the lake itself.

It's being a busy month around here - lots of canoes coming in and out, lots of BWCA adventures, lots of relaxing in cabins! Fishing has been uneven - typical for late July, I guess, but the evening bite off the cabin docks has been good and the ducks are growing fast. So are the snowshoe hares! There must be over a dozen of them hopping around the resort; not as many foxes around this year so I guess we have more hares?

Float plane at Rockwood

2010-07-16T05:49:00.000-07:00

Lots of fun this week... one of our guests hired a float plane to pick them up at Rockwood and take them for a moose hunting/Gunflint Trail overview flight! They had a wonderful time and we enjoyed having the plane land and takeoff coming and going from Rockwood. The family has been very lucky in their moose viewing, the moose-that-lives-on Poplar Lake has turned up to pose for them twice this week, both times with her two young calves!

We had a heavy rain Wednesday and all the little critters scurried for cover. I came home last night to find a very excited small cat... and a very terrified small critter sitting on top of the curtain rod! Mike confined our cat to the bedroom, I ran for camera and landing net, and after posing for his picture, our little visitor was gently removed to the front deck. He didn't waste any time getting away from the house and cat!

Great week!

2010-07-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Well, the Poplar Lake moose with her two calves is still around - our Cabin 2 guests saw her yesterday morning over by the beaver huts. She seems to be moving from one island of our bay to the other and bringing her little ones along in tow. They're getting pretty good size!

One of our canoeing families had an interesting experience last week on Caribou. Mom and daughter started up to the "throne" and were attacked by a couple of BIG birds that looked a heck of a lot like wild turkeys! The birds were apparently nesting in the area and didn't want company around their nest - they made a determined effort to chase the newly arrived family away. Dad went up and managed to convince the birds that the two families could co-exist on the same campsite, but the birds waddled after and gobbled at him too. You never quite know WHAT you'll meet up with in the BWCA! And yes, the family checked their Birds of Minnesota book...

Moose!

2010-07-03T07:52:00.001-07:00

I can't resist posting this absolutely delightful photo (taken by neighbor Ken Kloek on the Gunflint Trail at the entrance to our road...) I'm thinking of having a caption contest - any ideas? I rather like "Was it something I said?"

Mike's comment is that he thinks it explains why some people don't see moose around here and others see lots of them! It's all in where you're looking when you're looking, I guess.

Have a wonderful July 4th weekend!

Summer is here!

2010-06-29T13:33:00.000-07:00

We've been having a great week... lots of old friends, lots of new friends... and plenty to keep us busy!

Here are some new AND old friends - most of the guys from Boy Scout Troop 505 from Houston, who canoed from Cross Bay to Rockwood last week... I gather they had a good time! We really enjoyed seeing them again.

Another old friend showed up this morning with her new family - I guess when I walk out on the dock and a mama duck does a u-turn and comes flying back to meet me that she remembers enjoying Rockwood hospitality the year before? She was willing to share her bread crumbs with the family, though!

Rockwood's Cabin Diaries

2010-06-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Each of our seven cabins has a diary for people to write about their experiences, recommend places to visit or restaurants, and just for fun.

We were looking through this year's entries yesterday and found this account (four pages of Chinese with one GREAT illustration) of one group of three's visit to Rockwood. According to our student assistants (also from China), the group had a wonderful time and hope to come back!

Busy week

2010-06-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are in June... the fox down the road has had its kits (they seem to be playing IN the road, silly kits!)... our international students have arrived and are working hard and learning fast... and we've launched a lot of canoes the past few days! (Parking is getting a little tight :) ) The new fishing license machine and I are actually on speaking terms - most of the time. The new one doesn't like Mike any better than the old one did, but at least we can do licenses for our guests and neighbors!

We're actually getting some rain, too, on the way back from town Wednesday I was thrilled to see the "fire danger" sign at our nearby fire station read "Fire Danger LOW" - that's the first time it's dropped below "HIGH" since the ice went out in April! Now... if the rain would stick to falling at night? Nah, we're still glad to see it, anytime. Fishing has been pretty good, despite the rain!

Rockwood's New Wishing Bridge

2010-05-29T14:23:00.000-07:00

Here are Mike Seim (construction) and Carl Madsen (designer/construction) on Rockwood's beautiful new "wishing bridge". Carl and Mike spent the past week here helping out (THANKS, guys!) and building our new bridge over the little "creeklet" between Cabins 3 and 4. It's a great addition to the place!

We're having a busy Memorial Day weekend - lots of canoe trips and cabin people around - and I think I've finally figured out the new touch-screen fishing license machine!

Lilacs in May

2010-05-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

It's WARM around here! Usually my lilac bushes are in full bloom for the July 4 holiday - this year they're going to be gorgeous for Memorial Weekend! In the last day or two I've seen a wide assortment of summer butterflies - swallowtails, cabbage, sulphur, and even monarchs!

Mike's been painting the bunkhouse and I've been (early in the morning) working on the flower beds, which are growing fast... too fast for me to keep up. A little more rain and there'll be a lot of flowers there too!

In the meantime, our "angels", Carl and Mike, arrived yesterday and are helping out big time - bless them!

RAIN!

2010-05-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

Finally - Rain! Nothing like what people down south have been getting, but Thursday brought us a glorious inch of the cold wet stuff... and whatever this flowering shrub is certainly loved it! It started blooming promptly on Friday morning! Smells great, too... I'm glad it's up near our house as a similar shrub turned into beaver food last spring.

We've had a great week. So far four groups of volunteers from the Border Route Trail Club have stayed in our bunkhouse and then gone off with their saws and cutters to work on the Border Route Trail just north of us. They've also hiked the South Lake Trail (which runs, roughly, from Rockwood Lodge to the Border Route Trail). So both trails should be in pretty good shape this year! Our last group will be here early next week. We really appreciate all the work these great volunteers do to help keep the wilderness accessible!

Snow in May

2010-05-08T06:40:00.001-07:00

Compared to what our friends in Duluth tell us, this isn't much! We did, however, get over an inch of snow last night. Duluth apparently got something close to a foot, poor things! It has been a lot cooler (ok, colder) this past week; after getting used to the nice warm weather I'm feeling chilly.

We went down to check the canoe licenses this morning... and there were two sets of tracks - one big and one small coming up from the lake at Cabin 9 and walking up the soft edge of Rockwood Road into the woods. I think we had moose visitors last night!

We've got most of the cabins and bunkrooms spring cleaned and Mike's been taking down trees and generally working on things like the water system all week. Keeping busy, in other words!

Still sunny in the BWCA

2010-04-24T08:24:00.000-07:00

Mike's working on making it rain up here! He figures that if we have the sprinkler system up and running we'll get some rain... we really need it. We have a total fire ban across all of northern Minnesota - includes the west half of the BWCA as well as our eastern half - no campfires, no outside burning, we can't even grill a couple hamburgers on the charcoal grill. We really need a good soaking rain or two... or three!

So, the sprinklers are running... to encourage those rain clouds down south to move a little further north! I think maybe I'll go wash my car?

In the meantime, the resort water system is charged and ready to go, I've been working on the cabins, and Mike's been doing a bit of painting along with hooking up water lines (no water in them yet, it's still a little early - that rain we're hoping for could be snow, which would be fine...) - we're getting ready for guests!

Gorgeous weather continues

2010-04-16T14:53:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful spring we're having! We'd love a little more rain - green-up hasn't arrived yet - but the ice is gone, the water is blue and clear - and we're getting some work done ahead of schedule!

Our annual Food Show trip to Duluth was this week and Mike's happy that his motors are repaired and looking great. We haven't put boats on the water yet, but we're ready for spring fishing as soon as opener arrives. I filled the rest of the truck with cleaning supplies and stuff for the cabins, so I'm ready to start cleaning. Mike's even talking about turning on the water system!

Gorgeous weather in the BWCA!

2010-04-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

I don't think this is the same snowshoe hare I saw just before Easter - surely they don't change color quite this quickly? This one was in our house yard this morning, his back is brown already but his belly and legs are still white. You can see why the white one was so nervous - this one really makes another "where's Waldo" puzzle to find, his brown back camoflauge is so good!

Speaking of our animal population, I saw Clipper, our flying squirrel again last night and ... if I thought she was getting fat before... wow! I didn't shine a light on her or try for a photo because I didn't want to scare her and I'm not sure how she managed to glide into the birdfeeder.

The beavers (alias our landscape architects) are back and trimming off poplar trees again. Mike cut a couple down up here by the house and "planted" them by our dock, maybe we can lure one up here to work on some of the house trees I'd like to have removed!

In the meantime, my indoor garden is doing great. I brought the plants up a couple weeks ago and they are leafing out and some are blooming already. We should have plenty of flowers for the resort this summer!

Now... hate to say it... but we could use some rain - everything would turn green!

Spring is coming to the BWCA!

2010-04-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! Can you spot "Bonnie and Clyde" in this photo? Grouse sure have great camouflage, don't they? They've been up to the house almost every evening lately, checking to see if the birds have dropped any seeds... there must be some, or they wouldn't keep coming?

The other night we saw the local "Easter Bunny" and boy, was he unhappy! Unlike the grouse, he doesn't blend in - our snowshoe hares are still bright, shiny white. He was hopping along and every second step he'd stop and look nervously at the sky - I couldn't get a picture because he decided it was way too open - and brown - his white coat stood out like a sore thumb - and he took off for the woods like a rocket! I think he was very smart, I've seen an eagle sitting on one of the trees looking for lunch several times lately.

Mike has been painting this week - warm enough for that! The lake ice is black and there's open water along the shore and in the channel between the outfitting building and the island. I think he's right about an unusually early ice-out, (unless we get a really hard freeze that sticks around) the ice should be gone soon.

Yesterday I finally got one of the butterflies we've been seeing for the past several weeks to pose for me, there were two sunning themselves on the porch.

Home to Rockwood & the BWCA

2010-03-22T12:02:00.000-07:00

On our way home from a wonderful spring break trip to the Cities this weekend we stopped on Highway 61 to see Baraga Cross at Cross River. The historic marker sign has always intrigued me - so I thought I'd share what's there to see!

The plaque on the cross reads: "Father Frederic Baraga, learning of a possible epidemic afflicting the Indians at Grand Portage in 1846, set out in a small boat from Madeline Island in Wisconsin with an Indian guide. An unexpected storm threatened them but their lives were spared when they were blown over the sandbar and into the quiet mouth of Cross River. In thanksgiving they erected a small wooden cross at the site which was later replaced by this granite one.

Father Baraga, born in Yugoslavia in 1897, came to the United States in 1830 and devoted his life to the Indians of the Upper Great Lakes. Consecrated a bishop of Upper Michigan in 1853, Bishop Baraga, whose life was filled with heroism and zeal for souls, died January 19, 1768, and his remains rest in the crypt of St. Peter's Cathedral in Marquette, Michigan."

March in the BWCA - this year

2010-03-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

The pussy willows are blooming! Yesterday we saw two (stupid?) butterflies! The lake ice is turning black and there are air holes with open water popping through!

Yesterday in the middle of our bay there was only 18 inches of ice. The ice is honeycombed and very weak. I've decided that solo trips out on the ice this month are over for this fisherman.

Last year the ice was off Poplar Lake on May 8th. The year before the ice was gone on May 10th. From the looks of things outside it is hard to believe that we will have ice on Poplar Lake beyond April 20th. If the ice leaves early we should have some great Lake Trout fishing in May.

I guess spring is arriving early on the Gunflint and in the BWCA?

We're busy at Rockwood

2010-03-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week at Rockwood! Besides spending time on all the stuff we really enjoy - talking to people, helping them with their vacation plans, making reservations and getting Boundary Waters entry permits, we've had a lot of late winter chores too. Mike is taking down dead trees; it's much easier when you can drop the tree on the frozen lake and don't have to worry about hitting something. Of course, it isn't a lot of fun to haul all that stuff OFF the lake, but there's a lot more room to maneuver!

We've also been doing trail research, checking websites and catalogs for new gear, and studying job applications from a bunch of great people who've applied to work at Rockwood this summer. We've also been making lists of all the maintenance work that needs to be done... think of the stuff you might need to be doing on your house come warm weather and then just multiply by 12 or so!

More winter fun at Rockwood

2010-02-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

We had fried chicken the other night... and I always skin the chicken before I fry it. So there I was with all this nice, nutritious, yucky chicken skin - I put it back on the meat tray and told Mike to put it out for the foxes. We don't usually feed them, but what else do you do with chicken skins?

So Mike took it out to our "once in a while" fox feeding station - about 100 yards from the house on the driveway between the Gunflint Trail and the shop building.

The next morning the skins and the white foam tray were gone... oops! I was a little concerned until Mike went out to the birdfeeder next to the house - and there was the tray, fox tracks all around it, with only one little bite mark from being carried. The fox enjoyed the skins so much he brought the tray back down to the house for a refill!

The foxes have been down to the house looking for handouts before, witness this photo from last spring.

Flying squirrels and northern lights

2010-02-17T12:13:00.002-08:00

"Clipper" is becoming a regular at our birdfeeder - and she's getting fatter! The book says that flying squirrels breed in late winter and have their babies about 40 days later in "early spring". We didn't see any groundhogs on Groundhog Day, but do you suppose our "growing" flying squirrel is foretelling an early spring?

We got another e-mail from Dr. Deehr this week and he was right - we had a bright green auroral haze in the north that night. It looked just like there was a big city with green streetlights up on the other side of South Lake! I didn't see any streamers or dancing lights but at least it shows that the sun is continuing active and maybe we'll have bright dancing northern lights this summer?

Trout and Northern Lights

2010-02-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

Mike's been doing a lot of ice fishing lately - and the fish are cooperating! Here's a nice mess of brook trout he caught the other day (and made me hold for him). The weather's been great for ice fishing - he's planning to go out again tomorrow.

I got an e-mail this week from Dr. Charles Deehr at the University of Alaska Geophysical Institute telling me that "no, he hasn't forgotten me." I hadn't heard from him in a couple years. Dr. Deehr offers a wonderful e-mail alert service that gives subscribers notice when solar flares are active - so that we can predict when the Northern Lights are likely to appear. He says that the first solar flares of the new solar cycle are beginning to produce auroral activity - and that while he's not predicting any Northern Lights right now, "it's good to know the sun is awake again." So... maybe we'll have Northern Lights dancing above our heads this summer - and since I haven't been "forgotten or dropped from the list" I'll be able to tell our guests when Dr. Deehr thinks they'll appear!

The Institute has a wonderful website, by the way, at www.gedds.alaska.edu/AuroraForecast .

Think BWCA canoeing!

2010-01-29T14:50:00.000-08:00

Beautiful, isn't it? Our world is picture perfect these days - great photo opportunities wherever I look. This photo was taken where Rockwood Road meets the Gunflint Trail... leading down to the lake and the cabins, lodge and outfitting center. There isn't a lot of traffic except for Mike's snowmobile and he hasn't had it out since our foot or so of new snow last weekend. It's been a little too cold for comfortable ice fishing this week, though we hear the trout are biting on a couple nearby lakes.

Our main activity this week has been helping our friends and guests plan their 2010 vacations. The BWCA permit lottery is over, which means that you can now check http://www.recreation.gov/ for the date and entry point you want - and confirm your permit then and there - or give us a call and we'll help you pick the entry point that works for your group and get the permit for you! We've also been busy putting together some "cabin and canoe" and "cabin and hike" packages for guests who'd rather come home every night to a stove, refrigerator and cozy bed. Mike and I are pretty much settled here for the winter and we love having someone (else) to talk to about spring plans!

Winter Fun

2010-01-14T08:26:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jerry and Joel Enochson! Their great photo of their adventure last winter in the BWCA made the cover of the Boundary Waters Journal this month! Jerry and Joel are up in the BWCA this weekend snowshoeing too.

A number of their photos are on the bulletin board at the lodge; they seem to have a knack for getting animals - moose, wolves, etc. - to pose for them! The Enochsons (Debbie, Dan, Andrea and Kaylee too!) are frequent guests at Rockwood and we really enjoy their stays with us. The guys usually get an overnight BWCA trip in during their time here. We are fortunate that we have a lot of wonderful friends among our guests - and that so many of them are willing to share their photos with us!

Happy 2010!

2009-12-30T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Sparrow-Finch-Polls are back! I was beginning to think that I'd wasted money on a whole big bag of thistle seed... we've gone through about 10 pounds of sunflower seeds and another 10 of corn for the jays, Canadian jays, grossbeaks and our huge family of hungry chickadees - but not a finch or a sparrow or a red poll have we seen - until this morning. A whole flock of hungry goldfinch arrived bright and early today and ... well, I'm glad the finch feeder was ready for them because they were more than ready for it!

We did have one unusual visitor over the weekend - I've seen them before, but not around here. When I turned on the porch light to let Major out for his bedtime walk I saw the reflection of eyes in the feeder - so I ran for the camera. It's a little hard to get a photo late at night in the dark - but here's a hungry little flying squirrel enjoying a free supper.

Here's hoping you have a wonderful New Year's Eve and that 2010 will be a great year for you and yours!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Mike and I at Rockwood to all of you! Thanks for all your cards and notes - we love hearing from you. Here's hoping the roads are clear wherever you wish to go this holiday season, safe travel, great fellowship, and a wonderful Christmas!

The Gunflint Trail got about 4 inches of snow yesterday and overnight, so Mike's been out blowing the driveway and thinking hard about his snowmobile. He hasn't gotten it started yet this year but now there's probably enough snow - not to mention winter fishing opener coming up so he's got that on his mind!

Getting ready for Christmas

2009-12-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

The Christmas tree is up and decorated, yet another year when Mike and I just couldn't stand the thought of cutting down a real one. Guess we lived too many years in a new subdivision located more or less in the middle of an Iowa beanfield - trees take too long to grow for us to cut one down! I've gotten a little sentimental about our artificial tree, anyway - we've had it a long long time. And it's fun to look out the window past the tree and see how nature has decorated the trees outside with snow! We're starting to feel pretty "Christmasy" around here right now!

The lottery for 2010 BWCA permits is open, and we'd be happy to help you with yours! It's the same website as last year - www.recreation.gov . Lottery results will be sent out around January 18.

Snow at home

2009-12-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

We're back! We had a wonderful, wonderful Thanksgiving week - saw all the family, enjoyed great dinner, great fellowship... and we're also greatly thankful to be home again on the Gunflint!

The weather was fantastic almost the whole trip, traffic wasn't bad, our truck cooperated - everything was fine. On the other hand, Mike had a little trouble sleeping because of all the noise from cars driving by our relatives' houses, I missed my "pet" grouse and there sure are a lot of yard lights in southern Minnesota, all of Iowa and most of Missouri!

We knew we were getting close to home when we started to see deer along the road near Lutsen, knew we were getting closer when we got to Grand Marais to see a dusting of snow, and were sure we were almost home when we started up the Gunflint Trail in a minor blizzard with the road 100% covered in new snow and no vehicle tracks! There were a LOT of fox and snowshoe hare tracks to welcome us, not to mention a long string of moose tracks wandering down the middle of the road. This morning there's a nice coating of new snow on the lake ice. It must have been warm while we were gone, since there's a bit of open water along the shores of Poplar Lake but we're obviously in winter mode here!

Frosty morning

2009-11-17T07:56:00.000-08:00

We woke this morning to beautiful blue sky, lots of sunshine - and a frozen lake! The new ice is like a mirror, almost as clear as still water, but I guess this means the end of fishing until it gets thick enough to walk on. We got a dusting of snow over the weekend and there's still a little in shady spots - winter is definitely headed our way!

We have been helping a neighbor to net, pickle and smoke whitefish this past week. The smoked fish taste pretty darn good but we have to wait awhile to try the pickled fish. Tonight we're going to learn to make fish cakes. Other than that we're pretty well settled in for the winter, waiting for thicker ice and snow for winter activities!

Virginia!

2009-11-09T10:35:00.000-08:00

Well, we took advantage of fair weather last week and hauled a load of canoes over to Spring Creek and sold them. Lin got her annual shopping trip to Virginia - several of her favorite stores have branches there - and Mike got his annual trip to L and M Fleet. So we're pretty well stocked for the winter with new jeans, flannel shirts and odds and ends. Also - we got ourselves out of Cook County for the first time since the food show in Duluth back in April. Cook County is a beautiful place and we love living here, but it was nice to see some different scenery for a change.

We met a man at the day-old bread store who was stocking up with four loaves of bread and explaining that he had to plan his shopping because he lives so far out in the woods. He looked at our cart full of bread and said "You must have a deep freeze? That's really stocking up!" We weren't sure he believed us when we told him we really live "in the woods" - thirty miles from town!

Mike celebrated the last day of trout season by taking his pole and his one left over crawler and walking in to Birch Lake. He came home with a limit of trout. There aren't many places where you can take one nightcrawler on a fishing trip and come home with a limit of trout!

The weather the last several days has been great. Mike's gotten some painting done and Lin's been collecting pine needles for her baskets. The cool, damp summer apparently meant that the pine needles got more water and they're unusually long this year - say six or seven inches instead of five or six. The longer needles make basket weaving easier, so there's at least one upside (besides having no campfire restrictions) for a damp summer!

Halloween Day

2009-10-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

Well, we're almost buttoned down for the winter. The water lines are drained, the canoes are stored, and the new septic system for Cabins 4 through 7 is just about in! The electrician was here yesterday, just before last night's snowfall, so the new pump is all hooked up.

We got a new camera yesterday, so I can share a photo of our new mound - Mitch and Mike really did a great job - we'll plant a few more trees and we won't even know it's there!

Putting in the new system was quite a job - the weather hasn't exactly cooperated. Lots of rain and not what you'd call warm weather didn't help. Mike did a lot of the "grunt" work so he's pretty worn out... digging trenches, filling in trenches, crawling under cabins to unhook and hook up plumbing etc. wasn't a lot of fun. He's also been working on some cabin foundations - as long as he's under there anyway, why not?

We're hoping to make our annual trip to Mountain Iron with used canoes next week, it's always a great visit with friends and Lin really likes shopping in Virginia. We'll have a whole stack of new Kevlar canoes next spring! In the meantime, isn't the little creek between Cabins 3 and 4 beautiful?

October's Here - and so is the snow!

2009-10-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

Well, the cabins are closed for the winter, the water lines are blown and dry... and it's a good thing! We awoke yesterday morning to a light dusting of snow - no big deal, about 1/2 an inch, and it was gone by midmorning, so Jeremy and his group decided to go on out into the BWCA to fish and maybe camp. After all, our moose hunters are still out there ... have been for a week... so why not?

They - and we - woke this morning to about two inches of new snow at their campsite- and it's still snowing! They shared these photos - the first of Rockwood when they arrived back - the second of a portage on the way out this morning. At least the lake was nice and calm! And... they had a great time... lots of good memories to share for years to come!

Incredible Weather

2009-09-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a totally WONDERFUL September. It's so nice... the ducks haven't left yet, they're still lining up every morning at each dock quacking "isn't it breakfast yet?" I fed three when I came down at 7 this morning, and another six at 7:30... good thing there's plenty of leftover "duck bread" that's come in uneaten from canoe trips!

The daytime highs have been in the 70's and the nightime lows - well, it dipped all the way to 47 one night this week. Considering that we occasionally have snow by the 23rd of September... this is awesome! Only fly in my ointment is that my camera died, so I can't share photos of how beautiful it is... the trees around here aren't turning yet, it's so warm!

Still fantastic for canoeing or cabining around here - and the moose are coming out of hiding. There was a big bull wandering along the side of the Gunflint Trail very near us yesterday morning!

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

What an incredible morning to start the Labor Day weekend - gorgeous sun, clear skies - and a lake like a mirror! Beautiful! The forecast suggests that this will continue all weekend - that would be fantastic!

We've been very busy, our student helpers, Sean and Brandi, went back to college on Aug. 20, so we've been doing a lot of helping, packing, cleaning, etc. It's been great to have so many wonderful people around - we've had guests recently from Germany, Oregon, New Mexico, Colorado, Ohio, the Virgin Islands... as well as Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin! After a slow start, it's turning out to be a great summer.

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

Beautiful mornings!

2009-08-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

August is here... and we're pretty busy! Lots of canoe trips, lots of people having great vacations - it's being a great month! The early mornings have been beautiful - gorgeous mist on the lake. It's wonderful to be here!

Fishing

2009-07-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

Plenty busy around here this past week - lots and lots of canoe trips, lots of people enjoying cabin life - and the fishing is finally improving! Cole caught this nice bass last night right between Cabin 2 and the lodge!

Two gifts

2009-07-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

I had a pleasant "gift" when I came down to the lodge yesterday morning - a huge, beautiful, light green luna moth was perched on the lightpole just under our flag. About once a year I see one there... such a beautiful creature!

So I looked around and there was a little girl - I asked her if she liked luna moths and she said "what's a luna moth?" So I showed her and she was delighted.

Two gifts - a beautiful luna moth for me and someone to share it with!

Lots going on...

2009-07-13T08:42:00.000-07:00

Sunshine, a bit breezy, but a busy, happy week here! Our boy scout troop from Iowa had a great BWCA experience, other old (and some new) friends also had fun on their visits/canoe trips. Lots of moose wandering around Caribou, Horseshoe and Meeds lakes... one group had a moose visit their campsite to check them out!

Two groups had interesting encounters with turtles, it must be "nesting" season for turtles! I understand it's a little disconcerting to hear an odd scratching noise right in front of your tent door in the middle of the night and look out to see a big snapping turtle busily digging a hole for her eggs! They said that they could hardly tell that she'd been there come morning, she'd done such a good job of disguising her new nest.

Mike's new sauna gets an "A+" rating from our friends from Dallas who are originally from Finland, so I guess he did a really good job on it. It's nice to have it up and running again!

Seems hard to believe it's already mid-July, but it's certainly being a wonderful summer!

Visitors

2009-07-04T06:40:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful week! We had some very special visitors. A Canadian Lynx has been wandering around the resort this week... several of our guests have seen him! As one surprised guest reported "That's the biggest, most beautiful cat I've ever seen!" I haven't managed to see any more than something rather large disappearing into the woods, but two guests, two canoeists and our grandson have all seen that long-legged, short tailed, crazy earred creature either walking on the resort road or sitting on a rock next to the road! It's very exciting to see a lynx, we see their tracks quite often in winter snow, but this is the first we've seen in daylight.

Our other special visitors were our son, daughter, and two grandsons - they even brought Mother along for the week! We had a great time exploring and canoeing and just being together. A highlight of the visit was a trip to Grand Portage National Monument. One of the guides was kind enough to take the time to demonstrate a flint-lock rifle for us and explain all about "gunflints". Now we know why the "Gunflint" area was so exciting to the Voyageurs - at the trading post a flintlock rifle only cost 10 beaver pelts, while the English flint to make it work cost a whole beaver pelt all by itself! Finding a source for free flint must have been like finding a whole bunch of beaver they didn't have to trap!

When the guide found out we came from the Gunflint, he got out his tinder box, pulled out one of "our" red jasper flints, his firecloth and his steel striker, and, with the help of the boys blowing on the spark, started a fire with our flint! It was exciting, and really brought the history of the Gunflint Trail home!

Boundary Waters Families

2009-06-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

What fun! Our weekly Boundary Waters Families Paddle and Lunch event this past week was a great success - lots of fun! We took families out to an island in Poplar Lake to visit a campground, enjoy a picnic lunch, and learn a little about camping in the wilderness. Here, Mike and Sean are just starting out with guests for the island. Our other summer intern, Brandi, was waiting on the island with lunch. The families had a great time, and so did we!