The route can be very strenuous and requires strong cross-country canoeing and woodsmanship skills. When water levels are low, dragging of the canoe through a number of sections is required. It is best to begin the trip during high water or after a day of rain. The portages are brushed and marked but otherwise undeveloped. Food and supplies for at least five days, wool clothing, rain gear and rubber boots are essential items.
Additional access is possible by float plane to Hatchery Lake.
This route also provides access to the Honker Lake Forest Service Cabin. It follows the very scenic Thorne River. Wolves, geese, trumpeter swans, and deer are just a few of the outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities along the way. A more leisurely way to enjoy the river is to put in at either Goose Creek Bridge or Thorne River Bridge and make an easy day trip paddling into Thorne Bay.