Snowshoe Camping, Guskewa Lake, Algonquin

Guskewa Lake, the name gives it away. Centuries ago a people survived its winter shores without synthetic fibers or digital downloads. They placed their faith in the magic of a starry night, the wisdom of the northern lights, the glow of a roaring campfire, and the friendship of the tribe.

Let us honor the ancestors with a journey back to the future. Let us rekindle the faith of the Guskewa.

Itinerary:

Friday, Jan 3, 2014, after work, say 6:00 pm, head north to the parking lot of the Western Uplands Hiking Trail, Algonquin Park (km marker 3 from the park's western gate on highway 60). On the drive north drop by Mountain Equipment Co-op in Barrie for those needing to rent snowshoes (closing time 8:30). Upon arrival at Western Uplands, 3 hours later, spend the night camping near the parking lot (yes this is legal in winter).

Saturday, 7:30 am, backtrack to Dwight for breakfast, then return to the park gate by 9:00 am for backcountry camping permits.

10:00, start snowshoeing the approximate 5 km to Guskewa Lake, setup camp, collect firewood for the night, then day hike further if so desired.

Sunday, return to parking lot mid afternoon with the intention of getting back to Mountain Equipment Co-op in Barrie by 5:00 pm for those who may have rented snowshoes Friday.

Cost:

$12 (camping permit) + $40 (shared gas) = $52

If renting snowshoes add $20

Gear:

Goes without saying you'll need snowshoes for any hiking/backpacking in Algonquin Park in winter. The forecast for this weekend is fairly mild but rule of thumb for winter camping is be prepared for whatever winter is capable of (weather forecasts fail). Be prepared for tenting at -20 C.

Rentals:

MEC Barrie has great snowshoe rental rates.

Algonquin Outfitters, Oxetung Lake, rents snowshoes as well as complete winter camping gear. They are close to Algonquin so hours of operation aren't an issue.

Adventure Guide, Waterloo, whatever....

Difficulty:

The distance/time to campsite is intentionally short, 2 1/2 hours, for this first meetup of the season.

Inspiration:

Titles aside, the following two trips ended up at Guskewa last year. How could you not go after playing these slideshows?!

http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/photos/12554392/#195737452

http://www.meetup.com/KW-Backcountry/photos/12483142/#193767052