Portage between Alder Lake and East Bearskin Lake and surrounding area
Length in Rods: 80 rods
Date portage was last visited: August 21, 2022
Portage Rating: Rugged
The Portage between Alder Lake and East Bearskin Lake (north arm)
Portaging Direction: From Alder Lake to East Bearskin Lake (north arm)
This landing is a somewhat difficult to see from the lake. This huge log (assuming it doesn't float away) provides a guide. The landing is otherwise quite good.
This portage was built right over a hill and because of this, it is very difficult. Also, the portage doesn't seem to receive much maintenance, so expect some downfall. The path goes straight up the hill from Alder Lake. Once you reach the summit, you almost immediately start heading back down an equally steep slope to the north arm of East Bearskin Lake. The trail is also fairly rocky and also includes plenty of roots.
There seems to be two landings on this end of the portage. The one you see here isn't used much now because of the logs offshore blocking the entrance. So just to the right of this point (about 20 feet away and not photographed) is another landing.
Portaging Direction: From East Bearskin Lake (north arm) to Alder Lake
The landing is a bit overgrown because this portage is avoided by most groups. There is another landing just down the shore from this one that is better. This landing is blocked by a few logs offshore.
You will head straight up a rather steep hill shortly after you leave the edge of the lake. Once you top out, you'll almost immediately begin to head back down the rest of the way to Alder Lake. The portage gets only minimal maintenance. Obstacles include a good supply of rocks and roots. Expect to have to lift over several downed trees.
The nicest part of this portage is the great landing on Alder Lake. You might want to go for a swim after doing this portage.
Now that you've made it over the portage, visit: ALDER LAKE