Quetico Portage 5187 (Antoine to Sturgeon)

Traveled from Antoine to upper Sturgeon. It is well marked on the map, but was REALLY overgrown on the Antoine side. Conditions in the spring were rough, long sections of swamp and a few down trees made it much harder. We tried to knock some branches off to make it a little easier but got light headed due to blood loss from mosquitos. Overall, I would not recommend. Antoine was really nice though. 3/4 of the group hit grand slams.

in From Sturgeon. Fairly easy to find in flat area, Marshy first 100m then steady up but fair. Did about 700m then went back 2nd load. Last 300 is downwards but fair. Is not too bad despite other comments. Was well worth trip into Antoine, beautiful campsites and must see caves, research where they are!

Very much guessing on the date of when I took this portage, but suffice it to say that when I was in my late teens and in very good shape (day 10-12 out of beaverhouse) it was TOUGH! Heading from Sturgeon to Antoine, assuming you can find the correct route, if the first mountain (including the 4-5 ft ledge you have to climb) doesnt get you, the following swamp will do it's best. I also recall thinking that based on pacing it off, which is obviously questionable, it was closer to 300 than 200 rods. Unless you just really want to get to the southern end of Antoine for whatever reason I suggest paddling around. Blueberry Island and the stone table is worth seeing if nothing else.

We have only gone from Antoine to Sturgeon (three times). There is a hefty climb out of Antoine to get to Sturgeon. Otherwise it is relatively long but manageable. Based upon trips in the 90s and recently, blow down is a consistent problem. We try to be single pass portagers but the last time we went through it was impossible...too many downed/nearly downed trees.