What Is Portage?
A Journey Beyond the Riverbank
Ever wondered what happens when a canoe trip hits dry land or experiences an obstical? Welcome to the world of portage — a centuries-old practice that blends adventure, endurance, and a touch of wilderness grit.
THE TEMPORARY PORTAGE WILL BE EXPERIENCED BY SOME TRIPS FROM SALTSBURG KAYAK.
The portage is around 300 feet.
It is due to construction being done on the Salina Bridge. It includes a path from and back to the river that is very easily traversed.
Let’s break it down
The Definition of Portage
Portage (pronounced por-tij or por-taazh) refers to the act of carrying a watercraft or its cargo over land to bypass obstacles like rapids, waterfalls, or to move between bodies of water.
Whether it’s a short path between two lakes or a long trek around a canyon, portaging is often essential in canoeing and kayaking expeditions—especially in wilderness areas with interconnected waterways.
Where Does the Word Come From?
The term “portage” originates from the French word porter, meaning “to carry.” French fur traders and Indigenous peoples in North America used portage routes for trade and exploration long before roads or railways were built.
