We took a little longer route back to Windigo to see something new. We walked along the shore of the island for the first ½ mile. This is a very rugged shore with lots of rocks and cliffs. Unfortunately, it was cold and foggy with an ever so slight mist in the air. Even though the sights were nice, we were actually glad to make the turn and start the climb inland. Once we got over the ridge line, the sun came out again and warmed us up. We saw the ruins of an old cabin and some rails which were part of an abandoned mine. We stopped on some large rocks overlooking a glen. We decided to have lunch here to give the local moose population a chance to show itself. How could any self-respecting moose skip a glen with some boggy areas and lots of tender fresh grass? We got our answer—the moose on Isle Royale obviously have no self-respect because they never showed up.
We got back to Windigo by midafternoon and took the same shelter we had had the night before last. George was tired and wanted to take a nap but Pam and I decided to go look around a bit. We walked out to the mouth of Washington Creek moose hunting. When I was here 8 years ago, we saw lots of moose. At one point a bull and two cows even wondered into our camp and munched away on foliage all night long. It was very exhilarating to see a big bull up close. Their antlers weigh over 90# each so he’s carrying my body weight on his head. Amazingly strong animals and something you don’t want to trifle with. Nonetheless, I would like to spot one for Pam’s sake.
After an hour or so, we gave up and headed back to our shelter. What we saw was even more amazing and terrifying than a charging bull moose. The sides of our shelter were actually bowing in and out through the sheer force of George’s snoring. It was awe inspiring to realize we had slept through such a strong force of nature.
Tonight we fixed beef stroganoff and zesty lime chicken for supper. Afterwards, I still had a new treat for Pam and George that I have been carrying the whole time. We boiled some water for hot chocolate and peppermint schnapps but kept the stove going. I got out my treat—“jiffy pop” popcorn. Popcorn, hot chocolate, and hearts. It just doesn’t get any better than this.
