Portages are important in Dogrib culture. Besides their obvious role in bypassing difficult stretches of rapids, they are also a focus of story-telling. Portages were usually given a traditional place name that described the carrying conditions. They were often used as camping locations as well.

During the overnight camping session, elders would take the opportunity to tell stories of travel. Consequently these places are remembered by many for their stories rather than the heavy work of carrying supplies and canoes over the portage.

At Komoòla the portage trail is visible as a well-travelled path, worn deep from generations of use. In springtime when the trail was wet with run-off, poles were placed across the trail to provide secure footing and to prevent moccasins from getting wet. Nearby are several campsites as well as several graves, indicating that the portage has been used over many years.