fonixmunkee, Thank you for all the work you do on this site. This is a GREAT site eventhough I do not post too much. My hiking partner seem to beat me to the post when we talk about out trips to IR.

I would never count on getting a shelter however it is a good feeling when rain is OTW or already falling to get to a campsite with an open shelter.

This is a GREAT post with responses. My hiking partner and I are in the exact same situation as fonixmumkee and were thinking the same thing (rent a canoe and do the exact same route as mentioned). Thank you all for the information. I am going to print this topic out and save it for next spring when...

Agree to above answers.

I would not waste my time at East Chickenbone campground.

You also have the option if you get back to RH early to take the trail out to Scoville Point before your ferry ride back.

I would have to say that it's the build-up of anticipation for the trip(months ahead of time), the 16 hour drive to the ferry, the isolation on the island (most trips I have been on I do not see a single soul for a couple of day), and the solitude of hiking. I usually come home having lost 5-10 lbs ...

Looks like a GREAT movie. I may have to get with my hiking partner and do a family outing at the Detroit Science Center over the Easter Holiday.