Killarney

I've recently returned from a week-long 78km backpacking trip in Killarney with friends and thought I'd share some snippets of associated moments and memories:

Our trusty steed: Luke's family car, literally on its last legs. We discovered before departure early Saturday that it boasted both a flat tire and a leaky gas tank. Aesthetic embellishments included duct tape in strategic places, and a botched acrylic paint job.

July 5th happened to be Jen's birthday, and in lieu of cake or alcohol (both the local grocery store and LCBO were closed by early evening), Killarney presented us with other offerings: the remnants of a fantastic tub of caramel crunch pralines ice cream from the local general store, with thanks to our skilled negotiator Christian (whose skills came in handy throughout the trip).

A view of one of the lakes within the park, during that golden, golden hour

reflections of sunset on water during said golden hour

a tree, representative of the tree populace in the area

A tally of animals sighted throughout the trip. No bears, just poop. Lord of the Rings quotes to keep us going.

Our campsite on the second night of hiking. Every site was situated on a lake, of which there were many, and they progressively became more picturesque throughout the trip. Pictured, left to right: Jen, Luke, Josiah, and Christian's foot.

Tuesday was terrible. It rained all day, we packed up camp far later than intended, and the trail was slippery.

Thursday, Christian's negotiating skills came in handy again. We opted for a different campsite than what we'd booked, discovered its intended campers were enroute, and with the simple gesture of a friendly wave, all was well. Pictured is Luke reading What If You Are a Horse in Human Form? Serious stuff. Josiah a.k.a. Mountain Man is on his right.

Wild blueberries. They were wonderful.

Our last campsite featured crystal clear water that revealed dead trees, long fallen, lying in the depths.

I am pleased to add that our trip included many instances of trail songs, including none other than Northwest Passage.

More trees

Back in civilization Friday night, chillin' in the famed Microtel of Parry Sound.