Canoeing the Adirondacks, 1996-10-24
postcard
Fall 1996
12 days canoeing the Fulton Chain of Lakes
125 miles across the Adirondacks of upstate New York
Ray and Jenny Jardine
Taking a break between classes, we rent a canoe for a 12 day trip along the historic Fulton Chain of Lakes
The route begins here. In past times it was plied by fir traders, at a time when the principle means of wilderness transportation was by canoe.
Having recently paddled 1,440 miles of Arctic Alaskan coastline, we were in fairly good physical condition. However, neither of us knew how to paddle a canoe. So we made our way slowly across the first placid lake in comical gyrations. We could have used a few canoeing lessons!
We would not have won any races, but we were certainly enjoying the trip. And fortunately it was not all paddling. Between each lake was a leg-stretching portage.
Our rental canoe came with removable wheels, for use on the portages. The portage routes were all marked; this one led through a small town.
In fact it led directly past this convenience store.
Occasionally the route led close to a grocery store, which was a convenience for re-provisioning.
The signs warn of a waterfall ahead.
On this short section the portage is too rugged for the use of wheels.
Late fall, we saw very few other paddlers. Every shore stop and campsite was ours, and ours alone. Unfortunately, the initial, southern, parts of the route were festooned with houses lining the lakes. But as we made our way slowly north, day by day, these gave way to pristine wilderness.
Inspired by the stunning beauty of the region, I would like to accompany these final photos with a Native American quote:
"How can you buy or sell the sky,
the warmth of the land?
We're starting a campfire with a bow-drill.
Every part of this earth is sacred to my people.
We are part of the earth
and it is part of us.
you must remember...
it is sacred.
And you must teach your children...
that it is sacred."