ARTICLE OUTLINE
Most often, visitors to the Adirondack Preserve flock to the high peaks region of this expansive park, and rightfully so - with 360 degree views that often span as far as the eye can see, and rocky summits that break through the tree-line - there’s no denying the beauty of this region. But we had other things on our minds than bagging peaks this fall. We had done enough of that this season already and the western lakes region was calling.
I had been itching to do some fishing and hiking in the remote streams and beaver-laden swamps of the West Canada Lakes region. Recently having been told of recovering populations of brook trout in this area, my goal was to get out there and try to catch some, while exploring this region in detail for the first time. You can research more about the history of acid rain and industrial pollution-based damage to this region with a quick google search, but it’s too much to cover in the introduction here.
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Companion forum thread to:
West Canada Lakes Wilderness
I enjoy articles that highlight areas I would not normally visit or hear much about. Thanks for writing.
What a great trip and report!
Thanks.
Good motivation for getting the BWCA on the calendar.
I have hiked all over the high peaks and the western Adirondacks. But I missed camping this Columbus Day. A tradition broken. You brought back many memories. Thanks.
Thanks for the kind words. I do highly recommend visiting the area if you can, its so unique and there's lots to explore.
You can come in from a few different directions, and there's even an option to go in from a car camping area as well. Its less crowded than the high peaks region.
There are lots of pockets back there where beaver dams and swamps flow and become unique and varied waterways that support native fish populations. Beavers keep the size down in some places but not in others. I sat on a rock and watched some 4-5 inch brookies trolling for an evening meal.
They readily take my favorite adirondack fly – the fran betters "usual" pattern.
Pay particular attention to the area southwest of spruce lake, off the northville placid trail. But take care not to underestimate the terrain… its very dense and easy to get lost back there. Just be prepared and you'll be fine.
Always great to see an area I've never been. On the condensation, did you open the doors? My Hexamid + was right next to the Gila river and got very little vs. my sil-nylon bivy, a buddy's Goretex single wall,etc…
HK, yes… I always sleep with the doors open, unless its absolutely pouring.
The issue was the temperature. It was COLD.
The next night we camped farther back from the water and a bit higher up and there was no condensation.
It likely helped to camp under trees, whereas on the night I had condensation, we were camped in a clearing.
There are a few past BPL articles that discuss the issue but I don't have a link handy…
That's where I read about the tree cover vs no cover.
There are several canoes and flat boats stored around cedar lake. If you go again email and I'll tell you where to look. There location changes depending on water level. karl
Thanks, that's very kind of you!
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