Cedar Lake to Cedar River Cemetary

Jess

Time to put Dave’s plan in action. We set off for Carry Lean-to, where we’d normally be spending the night. It was another beautiful day and we arrived around lunch time. The lean-to was already occupied and a few more people were paddling up. After chatting for a few minutes we realized we “knew” these people from the ADK forum. Some more chatting and a bite to eat and we pressed on to Wakely Dam where, fingers crossed, we’d be able to reach Dave’s parents for a ride.

Morning Mist on Cedar Lake

Dave

We arrived at Wakely Dam about mid-day. So far, so good. However, there didn’t appear to be a Ranger or attendant on duty. Worse case scenario we were hoping to grab an overflow site for the night, but with no one around to talk to about this we really didn’t feel comfortable just doing it. The couple of hours we waited there had a bit of a Twilight Zone feel to it. Even though the campground was fairly busy and full, we felt almost invisible. Despite friendly smiles and hellos, no one seemed to acknowledge us. Unable to locate a Ranger/attendant, make a phone call, or get any real info from the other campers there about setting up a tent for the night… it seemed we had a hike ahead of us.

Jess

With no other choice, we started the 6 mile road walk out of Wakely, hedging our bets that we’d get cell phone reception eventually. So we walked, convinced once again that we’d be spending the night roadside. Then we remembered the inn a few miles up the road. Around 7pm we reached Karl’s Bed & Breakfast, a really lovely property on Cedar River Road. I was nominated to knock on the door and ask about availability.

Though he was booked for the night, Karl was kind enough to let us in to use the phone. With a turn of our luck, Dave managed to reach his parents and they agreed to come rescue us. We plopped our packs in front of Karl’s and waited. A half hour later we got bored and decided to keep walking, figuring we’d meet his parents along the way. An hour later we were still walking and, again, found ourselves in the dark. Past McCane’s, and finally, around 9:30pm we saw two cars round the bend.

Our 18 mile day was over.

Dave

I’m not allowed to make itinerary changes mid hike anymore.

Additional Photos
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Cedar Lake Morning

Carry Lean-to

ADK Forum Gang