Rally at Keyhole

Friday, motored the five plus nautical miles east to the entrance to the Collins Inlet and Key Hole anchorage which is tucked behind an island on the north shore -- right up against the Killarney Provincial Park.  Dropped anchor and almost immediately began to explore looking for a landing for Sophie.  My first choice turned out to be too steep for my happiness or her safety (or perhaps the other way around.)  The next, which was right near my boat was most satisfactory with flat rocks for landing the dinghy, and walkable rocks and woods (short walks) for her.  Of course, during this time a bear swam from one island to the mainland -- but I didn't see it :(

Later, an informal happy hour on shore at Sophie's chosen spot.  Such a SMART dog!

Saturday began the official rally with plans for the two days being announced -- boats with kayaks set off on their own exploration.  Mel and Sue and I ventured around to the south shore of the Inlet for blue berry picking -- which pleased Sophie no end, since she was able to run around while we were busy.  Dave from SWALLOW comes over to help adjust the starting of my outboard, and to explore SONADOR -- he is a naval architect from Delaware and runs his own boat building and maintenance shop -- that's one of the nice things about these gatherings, lots of people to help solve problems.  More shore time in the afternoon, helping to set up the rally site -- followed by a most welcome swim in the water which was all of 72 degrees!  Happy hour on shore, and visiting afterwards with new and old friends.

Sunday began with a heavy fog, but it lifted in time for a planned trip to the Chickanishing River which is a major launching point for canoe/kayak exploration in this part of the Provincial Park.  About two miles on the main channel, and then another mile up river to a pretty little falls -- hiking for a while, blue berry picking, and returning down stream and back to Key Hole.  Mid-afternoon another bear and a deer swimming right next to SONADOR -- but I was head down in a can't put it down book and saw neither :( 

Dinner on shore was fresh lake trout cooked over a charcoal fire by some of the GLCC members -- everyone brought sides to share, and we visited some more before telling of plans for the next week or month, depending on how long boats are staying out (some of these people are still working, so they have to get back home.)

Today, Monday I've come back to Killarney with Joanne and Chuck from MOKU HALE where we've taken a slip for at least one night as bad weather is predicted for a couple of days this week.