Thanks for the heads up. I'll book for a May weekend then! When do the black flies and skeeters usually start to show up? Would May 12 still be avoiding them for the most part?

Hi Andrew,

I have done this route and in some ways prefer it over the 1st loop as it's generally quieter. In terms of sites, yes, stay away from Ishkuday! It can be hard to decide on sites sometimes, as I find a lot depends on what you're looking for. For me, I prefer solitude on my hikes (especially the solo ones), so I typically look for less used and more secluded spots.

The first 8+ kms is very easy hiking as it mostly follows an old rail bed, so going to Islet or Weed is easily doable. Weed is quite shaded, elevated from the water and is visible down from the trail. Islet of course has more selection, including some nice sites right on the lake, but with this comes more lake traffic (canoe) and possible camp noise - this may not be too much of a concern early in the season though. I haven't camped on either Islet or Weed Lake, but I personally find Islet more appealing.

As for Tern Lake, expect it to be shallow and weedy for quite a ways out from the site. I checked out the western site for a lunch stop this past season and found it to be kind of nice as it was a sunny day and water levels were low, allowing for relaxation on the open shoreline and access to a small rocky outcrop. However, I assume this  would be mostly submerged (or at least very mucky) in spring. Gervais may be a better bet - it's also a smaller lake, and shallow, but it has a nicer shoreline area for better water access and lounging around. Note though that Gervais is quite exposed from the trail (especially the thunderbox!). West Otterpaw is another option, but I don't think the sites are all that great (I think the western site by the water would be best, but I still prefer Gervais). 

East End Lake is another shallow and somewhat weedy place, but I find it to be a peaceful, quiet spot. There's a good chance you won't encounter another soul on this section of trail. The site has fire damage from several years back, but I suspect it's starting to become less noticeable now. Brown Lake is a much, much nicer body of water, and the sites are heavily used. From what I recall, views and water access are better at the southern site on Brown, but it is a much smaller area than the northern site and has zero privacy as it is right beside the trail (I'd prefer the northern site).

May 12 should be a great weekend to go, but I would recommend checking in to make sure that the Rain Lake road is passable as there have been spring washouts in the past. You'll likely be fine by mid-May, but just something to be aware of...

If you're still considering a 5 day/4 night trek, stays on South Pincher and Loft Lake may be good options. I can provide more info on this if you like. I'll see if I can dig up some pics in the next day or two as well. ​

Cheers,

Rich

Last edited by hiker72 (12/21/2016 5:14 pm)

Glad to hear this Andrew.

I've never fully explored the Weed Lake site, but I'm guessing there are spots to hang out by the water as well - it will be quieter than Islet Lake which I think is a big plus. The 2 eastern sites on West Otterpaw are well away and higher up from the water and right by the trail, and I think the middle one is actually on the north side of the trail. The western site (first site on your hike) is by the water. I recall thinking that it didn't have a really great area to set up a tent, but that wouldn't be a problem with a hammock! 
All the best in your preparations and upcoming hike,

Rich

Awesome picture! Thanks for the report!