The Golden Staircase, Part 2

Our climb continued. Whenever we thought we must be nearing the top, another long, steep slope would appear on the trail before us. But finally the ground levelled and we began to glimpse Rockaway Lake through the trees. Upon reaching its rocky shore, we took off our boots and cooled our feet in the water, though it barely refreshed us on such a warm day.

Rockaway is narrow and less scenic than the previous lakes. To my disappointment, a curve in the topography obscured our view of the far end, where the giant white pines apparently stand.

After the excruciating ascent, our return hike seemed relatively easy. We stopped again to enjoy several deep, lush vales along the stream. Our attention was also drawn by an adult and juvenile black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus), endemic to northern forests and yet a species I have rarely observed.

Although these rich woods are a reward in themselves, I won't likely repeat my ascent of the Golden Staircase very soon. Whether I ever summon the courage to actually transport a canoe and gear up that intimidating portage to the verge of Algonquin Park, only time will tell.

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