Recent entries: Long Lake warden’s cabin logbook

Submitted by Dusan Soudek

October 16-17, 2024

Hiked in from the road for the night to take in the fall colours and solitude. The trail starts off marked and clear but quickly turns into a bushwhack of downed trees. I lost a leg off my tripod somewhere along the way. This place looks beautiful!

I enjoyed going through the logbook  but there was one log that stuck with me — July 18, 2015. Lucas N. (age 11)  Coming to this cabin with his dad was the best day of his life. Sometimes I get caught up in the complexity of being an adult and success, whatever that means. But Lucas is a good reminder that the important things in life are quite simple: Connection with loved ones and the outdoors. Thanks, Lucas, and to all that take care of this cabin– Noah B. (Northern Scavenger)

November 16, 2024

Wow, what an honour to be writing in this logbook next to the great Northern Scavenger! This adventure started before we even got to the lake. We were subjected to navigating the treacherous roads of turbulence but pushed onward to make it to the watery lake of salvation (Long Lake). After that the kind winds of fortitude guided us here to this cabin, where we shall remain warm and dry and without bodily injury for the night. Before embarking on the preparation of a wonderful spaghetti dinner we went to check the portage at the end of the lake. It had been cleared of deadfalls up to a point, but was ultimately impassable. Whichever brave soul took on the task of pursuing such a daunting operation, we applaud you and hope that you are able to complete your work. May the gentle spirit of  Burpee guide you!

A footnote, in a different handwriting: “Internet here sucks! 2 out of 5 stars.”

Transcriber’s note:

The above entry in the cabin’s logbook refers to the 1120 m portage from Square Lake, severely damaged by Hurricane Fiona in September 2022. It’s restoration by a team of Portage Committee members is nearing its finale. The reference to “Burpee” is to Harold “Burpee” Landers, who for many years acted as the informal caretaker of the cabin. He passed away at the site on Victoria Day 2010, following a weekend spent reroofing the cabin. A memorial plaque is attached to the outside of the rear wall of the cabin. The Portage Committee is planning a major rehab of the cabin and its outbuildings (a woodshed and an outhouse) next year.

-Dusan Soudek