#15 - Review 2011
Dear Friends and Guests
While outside the snowflakes are dancing we gladly sit in our warm
living room in front of a crackling fire reflecting on the past summer
season. Once more we could share many happy moments with our guests at
Frances Lake. After a fabulous spring the summer weather was rather
changeable, but this didn’t stop us from enjoying the untamed
nature
out here in all its glory. Particularly popular were our “canoe
trekkings”: thanks to several stationed canoes we were paddling across
sheltered bays in the Narrows area and walking along mossy forest paths
in between them. The constantly high water level also allowed us to go
exploring the many shallow coves by motor boat until well into fall and
thus often have nice animal encounters.
  
There were plenty of opportunities this summer to observe wild
animals
in their natural environment. Particularly during the second half of
the season we had many moose in our sights and on Mount Hunt we spotted
a
caribou mother with her calf. We even had some bear visits! But often
also the many „small“ encounters can be very fulfilling. The
faithful bald eagle pair has again successfully raised a young in their
aerie on the island in front of the lodge and the new beaver empire
nearby is growing to impressive dimensions. Finally the many squirrels,
hares and a funny porcupine kept us busy and added to many amusing
moments.
  
This summer we twice realized our popular Wild Yukon Tour.
The 18-day itinerary consists of 5 days paddling on Yusezyu River (the
inlet of Frances Lake West Arm), 4 days hiking in the Mount Hunt area
(at the head of Frances Lake East Arm) and, of course, several days in
the comfort of the lodge. Due to the changeable weather we had to
improvise a little in order to enjoy the sunny days while out camping.
For one tour group we shortened the hiking part and spontaneously
organized a two-day trip to the idyllic Liard Hot Springs. Beside the
relaxing bathing the trip was enhanced by entertaining walks and
interesting animal observations (bison, bears, moose).
  
Finally, this summer our new self-contained log cabin
on the other side of the peninsula was inaugurated by its first guests.
Out of sight and sound from the main lodge operation this two-storey
log house suits for singles, pairs, families and groups up to 5 persons
who like to enjoy the peace and quiet by themselves and go exploring
the fascinating Yukon wilderness on their own. A woodstove, well
equipped kitchenette with propane stove, fridge and running cold water,
table, suite and beds with fluffy quilts provide cozy comfort in the
interior. A canoe, angling gear, an outdoor fireplace, walking trails
and a lovely nature interpretive trail make the days pass by only too
quickly both in sunshine and rainy weather.
  
Whether young or old, sportingly active or peace seeking, alone or
traveling in a group – a stay with us offers something for everybody to
experience the pristine Yukon wilderness. A high number of repeat
customers over many years are our best proof and satisfaction. Our
complete Program 2012 is now online on our website.
Have a look and in
case you have questions or need more information don’t hesitate to
contact us, best by e-mail to info@franceslake.ca.
We’d love to be your hosts!
Kind regards,
Andrea & Martin Laternser
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