Thus the best time to traverse the route is high water or the day after a rain. The portages are brushed and marked but otherwise undeveloped. Numerous logjams, difficult footing over some portage areas, the Thorne River Falls, and some rapids at high water flows contribute to the difficulty factor. The logs across the streams provide important habitat for young salmon. Food and supplies for at least five days, insulated clothing, rain gear, and rubber boots are essential safety items.
Potential campsites are numerous along lake shores.
The Honker Lake cabin mar is an excellent stopover point. Check with the Thorne Bay Ranger District recreation department for reports on the most current area conditions. Launch near the bridge and head upstream. Several shallow sections will require lining of the canoe at lower flows. If the first 100 yards upstream from the Hatchery Creek Bridge are too shallow to paddle, other shallow sections will be encountered and you should consider waiting for a day of rain.