NFCT: Days 22-24

Hey all,

Just a quick update:

Day 22:
   The weather has continued to be great! After Seth dropped us off we had a great paddle up the rest of the Androscoggin River. We stopped in at L.L. Cote for a quick look around and then continued to Umbagog Lake. On our paddle we met a very nice couple, Rod and Clare. We chatted with them our whole paddle across the lake. They invited us to join them and the rest of their group for pad thai and to share our stories. It was so wonderful to meet everyone and eat such amazing food! After dinner we headed for our camp, which was only another mile or so farther at Cedar Stump.
18 miles

Rod and Clare on Umbagog

Enjoying the sun

Bald Eagle

Rod, Clare, et al cooking a fantastic dinner! Thanks again!

Day 23:
  The day started out with a 4 mile portage, which turned out to be slow. We carried the first bit before we could put the wheels on, and still it was slow going. We finally made it to Lower Richardson Lake, which was a relief. It was around noon by this time and we still had about 16 miles to paddle. It was nice to be back on the water and once we got into a rhythm, we flew. On Upper Richardson Lake we encountered a head wind, which was scary at points and slowed us down some. The portage to Mooselookmeguntic was easy and the paddling was a little more protected from the winds. We made it to Griffin Island around 5. An amazing campsite! All of the lakes were very beautiful.
21 miles

The mermaid on her way to Griffin Island!

One of the Richardson Lakes

Mooselookmeguntic Lake

A truly magical evening

Day 24:
  Today we didn't want to leave our amazing campsite,  but got on the water around 7:30. The paddling was beautiful and we continued to move quickly enjoying the flat water, sunshine, and beautiful views. We got into the town of Rangeley around 11:30. Here we have resupplied, hung out drinking ice coffee and relaxed. We are about to hit the trail again for a 4.5 mile portage to the South Branch of the Dead River. We have been doing our research about this section and it sounds like we might have a lot of walking in front of us due to low water levels...
16 miles down another 5.5 to go for the rest of the day.

A griffin paddle and Griffin Island!

Cormorants

Loon sighting