Portage refers to the practice of carrying a boat or its cargo overland between two bodies of water. This is often necessary when navigating rivers or lakes that are separated by land, such as when encountering rapids, waterfalls, or shallow areas. Portaging allows travelers to continue their journey without having to turn back or find alternative routes. The term is commonly associated with outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking, where adventurers may need to transport their vessels across land. Portage routes can vary in length and difficulty, and they are often marked on maps used by hikers, canoeists, and kayakers.