BWCA Portage 647 (Clearwater to Judd)

Did not take this portage but talked to a group that was just coming out from Clearwater and they said it wasn't in too bad of shape. The forest service quit maintaining this portage after the pagami creek fire but their understanding was that the Ely Outward Bound school had adopted maintaining this portage as part of their programming.

Sandy landing was easily located in the extreme NE corner of Clearwater Lake. Starts out a little mushy and then a big climb out of the lake that provides somewhat of a vista at the top. From there about every imaginable portage variance is encountered: rock knobs, mud holes, twists, turns, ups, downs etc. etc. etc. You may also want to wear ear plugs as the constant screech of overhanging branches scraping the canoe may be the most difficult aspect to overcome. :) A beautiful overlook of Judd Lake is finally encountered but than the circuitous trail seems like it takes longer to get there than it should. The landing on Judd is decent but burned out and may be difficult to locate from out on the lake. Definitely an extremely tough one but, over all an incredibly rewarding experience. Reminds me of a shorter version of the Paulson to Sea Gull portage.

Tree down at what we assumed as the portage was a hint of what was to come. Minimal if any path remained with large open areas, bogs, and thick brush. Not recommended- and definitely not for the faint of heart.