DESCRIPTION:
The Honker Divide Canoe Route is Prince of Wales Island 's longest trail.
It extends 30 miles on the Hatchery Creek/Thorne River system through
the heart of the island, affording visitors glimpses of mountain
views, expansive muskegs and open river. The Honker Divide Canoe
Route is a challenging paddle, but well worth the effort.
LOCATION:
Visitors may access the Honker Divide Canoe Route from the newly renovated
Honker Canoe Launch, located on Forest Road 30, about 10 miles south
of Coffman Cove. The canoe launch is approximately a 2.5-hour drive
from Craig and a 2-hour drive from Thorne Bay. USGS Map: Craig D-3,
C-2, and C-3.
TRAIL:
Distance: 30 miles (entire route), 3.5
miles (portages)
Trip Time: 2-4 days
Difficulty: Most Difficult
Elevation Change: approximately 500 feet
Terrain: The canoe route is a combination
of river and lake paddles. The first seven miles are against
the current. The portages are on natural tread and may be
muddy.
Special Considerations: Plan ahead and
prepare for changing weather conditions. Wear recommended
personal floatation devices when boating.
Recommended Seasons:
Spring
|
Summer
|
Fall
|
Winter
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
SPECIAL
FEATURES:
The Honker Divide Canoe Route offers boaters the opportunity to enter
a pristine area of lakes and rivers, where visitors' are unlikely to
see any other visitors until they reach the lower sections of the Thorne
River . The Thorne River is a renowned salmon stream, where anglers from
all over the country come to fish. Bird watchers and wildlife viewers
may also enjoy the sites of deer and bear as they quietly glide along
the river.
Break up the 30-mile route by staying overnight in Honker
Lake Cabin, which can be reserved at: Recreation.gov.
Practice Leave No Trace
• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors
SAFETY TIPS:
• Discharging firearms is prohibited within 150 yards of buildings,
campsites, developed recreation sites, or occupied areas
• Fireworks or other explosives are prohibited
• Use only fire rings provided by the Forest
Service
• Be respectful of others and keep your
pets under control
• Do NOT feed or approach bears!
• Water for consumption should be treated
or boiled
• Rubber boots, rain gear and insect repellent
are recommended
|
