Oh Snap!

I took a walk through the blowdown and was in awe of the fragility of a forest. Trees seem so strong and permanent. Wind and fire can change them so quickly.

In spite of the “destruction”, I find this landscape compelling with its own beauty. I love the angles created, and find the various layers and hues of the deterioration quite beautiful. And after all, it’s all part of the lifecycle of the forest.

Blowdown!

Sometimes Nature takes a more active hand in the life cycle of a forest. Discovering a blowdown while paddling along the shore can be quite startling. It always makes me pause and consider how the force of wind can so easily decimate something so immense.

A half hour down the lake, and you’re back to paddling along an unspoiled old growth forest. This diversity is one of the things I love about Quetico.

Return to the earth

Along the portage route, you will often pass the detritus of the forest… rotting stumps that have their own personality and beauty. The one on the left almost looks like a bear considering whether he should climb the tree.

On a long portage it’s easy to create a narrative from the characters you meet on the way. It helps pass the time until you get into that lake again!