Physically drained, we push on to Philips Lake 16 km. away. Day six in Algonquin Park.

We strike camp before daylight and move down a dark river to the first portage of the day.

Upon reaching the take out for the 3,565 meter portage, we stow our gear on the bank of the river and fall asleep on the trail. 

As the darkness of the path relinquishes its hold and succumbs to the early dawn light, we shoulder our loads and face the ominous task of moving our gear over the long portage.

The path shortens with every step, yet our minds begin to fight our physical bodies and begin to fill us with doubt. 

I push back, knowing that the wilderness is just testing us and that if we blend and flow as I was taught long ago, we will find our breath and our strength. 

Today was a day of internal dialogue. The type which forces you to either hide or step up and face the challenge set before you.