This online document is a means of sharing the adventure of traveling on America's waterways with friends and family. Last Dance is continuing to take her crew to historical, natural, beautiful, and interesting places. Enjoy the ride.

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

North Channel - Snug Harbor


Yes, there is a Snug Harbor in North Channel also.  This view is looking out toward the entrance, illustrating well that Snug is a totally protected harbor.  Although carved into the same peninsula as Covered Portage, this cove is different.  It is deep.  The shallowest spot during Last Dance's visit was 35 feet deep and at the base of the cove, where one might expect shallow water, it was over 45 feet.  Anchoring in deep water requires a long rode to the anchor, resulting in large swing circles.  The shore does not have the high rock bluffs of Covered Portage, but does have some height and tall trees creating protection from winds of all directions.  And, while the cove is deep, the entrance cut is shallow, making getting into Snug Harbor a tricky proposition.




Another feature of Snug Harbor is a marked hiking trail across the peninsula to Fraser Bay.  The trail leads through very thick wooded areas, along a lake, and out to a rock beach on the bay.






This underlying rock structure at this point of the peninsula is layered, with horizontal strata.  It is broken at the water's edge from waves, making natural steps down to the water.  Good for hikers.  Also good for bears.  The edges of the rock steps has provided the bears with a convenient hone to sharpen their claws.  Evidence was abundant along the shore.





While interactions with the wildlife are a highlight of the cruise through Georgian Bay and North Channel, up close and personal encounters with bears are not desirable.   However, it is good to know that they are still thriving in this area.




The layered rock broken by the lake's waves makes many small, flat rocks that comprise the beach surface.  A previous hiker took advantage of the rock-strewn beach to construct a large Inukshuk.  This Inuit symbol of welcome or indication of appropriate path does create a sense of comfort and has become an art form.