Van Vac Lake
A very remote lake that will take a lot of effort to reach. The lake is situated well above Triumph Lake and to the southeast according to topographic maps. A small creek, flowing out the west end of Van Vac Lake, drains into Triumph Lake about a quarter mile downstream.
This area was most recently burned in 1910 by the Sioux River, Bootleg, Big Moose and Cummings Lake complex. In 1894 it may have been impacted as the Chad, Cummings, Lac La Croix, Crooked Lakes complex raged near this area. Also, around 1755 the area was burned during the Big Moose, Oyster, Lac La Croix complex fires.
Approach to Van Vac Lake
To get to Van Vac Lake, you first must paddle up Triumph Creek (probably lifting over a dozen beaver dams, a few rapids and lots of deadfall), and then paddle to the south side of Triumph Lake. It is here that you will find a small creek that drops into Triumph Lake. This creek flows from Van Vac Lake.
Bushwhack to Van Vac Lake
It appears the tiny creek flowing out of Van Vac Lake flows through an area of blow down left by the 1999 Independence Day Windstorm for about the last 30 rods before it drains into Triumph Lake. About midway to between Triumph Lake and Van Vac Lake is a small pond. Continuing past the pond another 10 rods brings you to another smaller pond. It is at this point that the creek may become navigable the remainder of the way to Van Vac Lake. At the very least, the creek prevents you from getting lost and/or having to take location and heading readings during the bushwhack.
Exploring Van Vac Lake
There is no evidence to be found that anyone has been to Van Vac Lake recently.
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