Discover Boundary Waters - North America's Premier Canoe Wilderness

Day 1: Gateway to the Wilderness Chain

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive in Ely, Minnesota, the gateway to the Boundary Waters. Pick up your pre-reserved BWCAW entry permit (Entry Point #30 - Lake One, required for your specific entry date) and rent an ultra-light Kevlar canoe from an outfitter like Piragis Northwoods Company ($275 for 5 days, estimated). Take about an hour to review maps, get last-minute advice, and load your gear. Drive approximately 30 minutes to the Lake One entry point landing. After packing your canoe, begin your paddling adventure, crossing Lake One (approx. 2 miles).
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After a brief 80-rod portage from Lake One to Lake Two, paddle across Lake Two (approx. 2.5 miles). You’ll navigate a short 10-rod portage into Lake Three, continuing your journey through interconnected lakes. Look for a suitable campsite on the northern shores of Lake Three or even pushing into Lake Four if time and energy allow. Total paddling and portaging for the day: 5-7 miles, 2-3 portages.
• Evening Set up your wilderness campsite, following Leave No Trace principles. Enjoy your first campfire-cooked meal (plan for $40/day for two people for dehydrated or self-packed food) and listen to the sounds of the BWCAW wilderness. Star-gaze away from any light pollution. Practical Tip: Ensure your food is properly hung in a bear-resistant manner.

Day 2: Deep Woods and the Great Portage

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up to the sounds of loons. After a hearty breakfast and breaking camp, paddle deeper into the wilderness. If you didn’t reach Lake Four yesterday, you’ll start there today (after a short 10-rod portage from Lake Three). Enjoy the scenery of Lake Four, known for its island campsites. Prepare for a couple of small portages (around 10-20 rods each) leading you towards Hudson Lake.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) This afternoon features one of the more significant portages of the trip: the 130-rod portage from Hudson Lake into Insula Lake. This will take considerable time and effort (estimated 1-2 hours for a single portage with two people, depending on gear). Insula is a large, beautiful lake with many islands and bays. Paddle a good portion of Insula, heading east, in search of a scenic campsite. Total paddling and portaging for the day: 6-8 miles, 3-4 portages including the 130-rod challenge.
• Evening Relax by the fire on a remote Insula campsite. Spend time fishing for smallmouth bass or walleye, or simply enjoying the sunset over the water. Reflect on the day’s physical accomplishment.

Day 3: Serenity of Insula & Southern Passage

• Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Enjoy a more leisurely morning on Insula Lake. This is a day to truly immerse yourself in the BWCAW’s beauty. Paddle south through Insula, exploring its many nooks and crannies. You might consider a short fishing excursion or simply enjoy a quiet paddle.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Begin your journey south from Insula. You’ll encounter a 20-rod portage into Kiana Lake, a smaller, more intimate body of water. From Kiana, prepare for another substantial portage: the 120-rod trail into Alice Lake. This portage can be rugged, so take your time. Alice Lake offers beautiful, quiet campsites. Total paddling and portaging for the day: 5-7 miles, 2 portages.
• Evening Set up camp on Alice Lake. Enjoy the tranquility, perhaps spotting moose or other wildlife along the shore. This is a perfect night for stargazing or practicing wilderness photography.

Day 4: River’s Embrace: Navigating the Kawishiwi

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Break camp on Alice Lake and begin your final leg towards the Kawishiwi River. You’ll complete a short 10-rod portage into Kawasachong Lake, followed by another 10-rod portage into Square Lake. These are quick and relatively easy.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Paddle through Square Lake, which will lead you directly into the winding channels of the Kawishiwi River. The river section offers a different paddling experience, with narrower passages and a series of short but frequent portages around rapids and small falls (e.g., portages around Clear Lake, Townline Lake, and the First Kawishiwi Falls). Find a campsite along the Kawishiwi River, which has numerous options. Total paddling and portaging for the day: 7-9 miles, 4-6 portages.
• Evening Enjoy your final full night in the Boundary Waters wilderness. Reflect on the challenges overcome and the beauty experienced. Consider a long conversation by the fire, planning your next BWCAW adventure.

Day 5: The Homestretch and Wilderness Farewell

• Morning (7:30 AM - 11:00 AM) Wake early for your final push. Enjoy one last wilderness breakfast. Break down camp efficiently. Continue your paddle and portage journey down the Kawishiwi River. You’ll pass through areas like Clear Lake and ultimately connect back to the eastern arm of Lake One. This section will involve several short river portages (around 10-30 rods each) as you follow the natural flow of the water.
• Afternoon (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM) Paddle the remaining stretch of Lake One back to the original entry point landing. Unload your canoe and gear, ensuring you’ve left nothing behind. Drive back to Ely, feeling accomplished and invigorated by your wilderness experience.
• Evening Return your canoe and any rented gear to the outfitter. Celebrate your successful “Classic 5-Day Paddling Loop” with a well-deserved hot meal in Ely. The Boathouse Brewpub & Restaurant is a popular choice for good food and local brews (estimated cost for dinner for two: $60-$80). Take some time to browse the local shops for souvenirs or simply relax after your challenging yet rewarding adventure.

Day 1: The Grand Paddle-In to Serenity

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive in Ely, MN, the “Gateway to the Boundary Waters.” Head directly to your chosen outfitter, such as Piragis Northwoods Company (105 N Central Ave, Ely) or Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitter (203 E Sheridan St, Ely). This is where you’ll pick up your rented canoe (e.g., a lightweight Kevlar tandem canoe), paddles, PFDs, essential portage packs, and a safety kit. You’ll also confirm your BWCA permit.
  • Practical Tips: Allow ample time for a thorough gear check and to ask any last-minute questions about your route or current conditions. The outfitter will provide a detailed map and instructions for your chosen entry point. Confirm your reserved permit for Entry Point #30 (Lake One).
  • Cost Estimate: BWCA Permit ($38 for 2 adults); Canoe & essential gear rental (e.g., canoe, paddles, PFDs, portage packs, safety kit): $250-$350 for 4 days for a budget-conscious partial outfitting.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Drive from Ely to Entry Point #30 (Lake One), approximately 30-40 minutes north. Unload your gear, perform a final pack check, and launch your canoe. Your goal is to paddle through Lake One and Lake Two, aiming for a basecamp on Lake Three.
  • Route & Distance: Paddle roughly 3-4 miles through Lake One (expect 1-2 easy, short portages, e.g., a 20-rod portage between Lake One and Lake Two) and onto Lake Two. Look for available campsites on Lake Three. There are numerous designated sites, marked on your map. Your outfitter can advise on good areas.
  • Practical Tips: Pack a simple, easy-to-eat lunch (e.g., sandwiches, trail mix) to consume on the water or at a portage. Prioritize finding a good, vacant campsite early in the afternoon. Set up your tent, bear rope, and establish your camp efficiently.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Settle into your basecamp. Prepare a hearty first camp dinner. Options include easy-to-cook dehydrated meals, pasta with sauce, or pre-cooked sausage. Enjoy the sounds of nature, watch for wildlife, and listen to the haunting calls of the loons.
  • Dining: Cooked over a camp stove or a campfire (if permitted and fire conditions allow).
  • Cost Estimate: Pre-purchased groceries for 4 days ($150-$200 total for 2 people).

Day 2: Lakeside Leisure & Pristine Paddling

• Morning (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up to the serene sounds of the wilderness. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your campsite – think oatmeal, coffee/tea, and perhaps some breakfast bars. After breakfast, head out in your canoe for some relaxed paddling and fishing directly from your basecamp lake, Lake Three.
  • Exploration: Explore the various bays and shoreline features of Lake Three. It’s known for excellent fishing, particularly for Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass. Troll spoons or cast jigs near rocky points and submerged structures.
  • Practical Tips: Pack a small dry bag with snacks, water, and essential fishing gear. Remember to practice “catch and release” for most fish, or keep only what you can eat for a fresh meal. Ensure you have a valid Minnesota fishing license.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Paddle to a scenic spot for a shoreline picnic lunch. Afterward, consider a short day-trip paddle. You could paddle further into Lake Four (a very short, easy portage from Lake Three), which offers more paddling and different fishing spots. Alternatively, find a quiet cove on Lake Three for swimming and relaxing by the water.
  • Nature Focus: Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bald eagles soaring overhead, deer along the shore, or even a moose if you’re lucky.
  • Cost Estimate: Minnesota non-resident fishing license ($45/person for annual or $14/person for 24-hour; if both fish for 4 days, budget $90 for annual licenses).
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Return to your basecamp for another delicious camp dinner. If fishing was successful, enjoy fresh-caught fish cooked over the fire (check regulations and fire conditions first). Otherwise, prepare another pre-planned camp meal. Spend the evening telling stories, playing card games, or simply stargazing away from any light pollution.
  • Dining: Camp stove or campfire cooking.

Day 3: Wilderness Wonders & Skill Building

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Dedicate the morning to a more focused fishing expedition or a guided nature walk (self-guided around your campsite). If fishing, target specific areas of Lake Three or Four that you scouted yesterday. If interested in nature, take a quiet walk around your campsite or a nearby island (if accessible by canoe) to observe flora and fauna.
  • Skill Building: Take time to practice wilderness skills like map reading and compass use, knot tying, or identifying local plants (ensure you know what you’re doing before touching any unfamiliar plants).
  • Practical Tips: Reapply bug spray as needed. Carry your map and compass even for short walks from camp. Practice Leave No Trace principles diligently.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a leisurely lunch back at your campsite. The afternoon is perfect for total relaxation – read a book, journal, take a nap in the shade, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. If energy allows, gather some firewood (dead and downed wood only, with appropriate permits/regulations) for a cozy evening campfire (again, only if conditions allow).
  • Creative Time: Bring a sketchbook or waterproof camera to capture the beauty of the Boundary Waters.
  • Cost Estimate: Minimal, just consumables like water purification tablets.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Prepare a special “last night” camp dinner. Perhaps a slightly more elaborate dehydrated meal, or a dessert like s’mores if you have the ingredients and a safe campfire going. Reflect on your adventure, share your favorite moments, and enjoy the pristine dark skies of the BWCA. Listen for owls or other nocturnal creatures.
  • Dining: Camp cooking.

Day 4: Farewell Paddle & Fond Memories

• Morning (7:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Wake up a bit earlier for a final Boundary Waters breakfast. Savor the last moments at your basecamp on Lake Three. Begin the process of breaking down camp and packing all your gear meticulously. Ensure absolutely no trace is left behind. Double-check your campsite for any forgotten items or trash.
  • Packing: Pack everything securely in your portage packs. It’s helpful to separate wet and dry items.
  • Practical Tips: Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. This takes a bit of time but is crucial for preserving the wilderness.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Begin your paddle out, retracing your path through Lake Two and Lake One back to Entry Point #30. Enjoy the paddle, perhaps catching a final glimpse of a loon or an eagle. The paddle back feels different, full of memories of your adventure.
  • Distance: Approximately 3-4 miles of paddling and 1-2 easy portages.
  • Return: Load your gear into your vehicle and drive back to Ely.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Return your rented canoe and gear to the outfitter in Ely. Take a hot shower at their facility (many outfitters offer this for a small fee or complimentary).
  • Post-Trip Meal (Optional/Budget Dependent): Celebrate your successful trip with a meal at a local Ely establishment, such as BoomTown Woodfire Grill (33 E Chapman St, Ely) for a hearty American dinner, or Insula Restaurant (301 E Sheridan St, Ely) for a more upscale option. This would be a splurge item after a budget-conscious trip.
  • Cost Estimate: Shower fee (if not included with rental, ~$5/person). Optional dinner in Ely ($40-$80 for two).
  • Total Budget Check: Permit ($38) + Gear Rental ($250-350) + Food ($150-200) + Fishing Licenses ($90) + Shower ($10) = Approx. $538 - $688. This leaves a buffer of $212 - $362 for the post-trip meal or unforeseen incidentals, making the $900 budget for 2 people achievable with careful planning and partial outfitting.

Day 1: Into the Winter Wild

• Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Your “Winter Wonderland Expedition” begins with an early start. Depart for Ely, Minnesota (approx. 4-5 hours drive from Minneapolis/St. Paul). Upon arrival in Ely, your first stop is Piragis Northwoods Company (105 N Central Ave, Ely) to pick up your pre-booked winter rentals. This should include snowshoes and poles for two people, and a sturdy pulk (winter sled) for hauling gear.
  • Practical Tip: Confirm your gear reservations well in advance. Renting snowshoes ($25/day/person) and a pulk ($20/day) will be approximately $150 for 3 days. Also, grab your free self-issued BWCAW winter camping permit from the kiosk at the outfitter or the Forest Service office. Purchase any last-minute items like fuel for your stove or dehydrated meals if not already packed. This segment includes gear inspection and final packing of the pulk.
  • Cost Estimate: Gas: ~$50 (one way), Gear Rental: ~$150. Food/Misc: ~$40 (for initial supplies).
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:30 PM) Drive to the Snowbank Lake Entry Point (#27), approximately 15 miles north of Ely. The access road is typically plowed in winter. Strap on your snowshoes, load your pulk, and begin your journey into the silent wilderness. Your goal is to find a suitable winter camping spot on Snowbank Lake. Look for a location at least 150 feet from shorelines, portages, or established trails, ensuring it’s sheltered from wind.
  • Distance/Time: Expect to travel 3-5 miles (approx. 3-4 hours) with gear, depending on snow conditions and your pace. A good intermediate destination would be a secluded cove or a point further into Snowbank Lake itself.
  • Practical Tip: Winter days are short. Aim to arrive at your camping spot and begin setting up camp at least 1.5 hours before sunset to ensure you’re established before darkness falls.
• Evening With camp established (tent pitched, gear organized), prepare a warm and hearty dinner. Dehydrated meals are lightweight and efficient for winter camping. Enjoy hot beverages like cocoa or tea. Gather small, dead and down firewood (if permitted and available) for a small, warming fire (check current fire restrictions). The Boundary Waters in winter offers unparalleled stargazing due to zero light pollution.
  • Dining Recommendation: Self-prepared winter camping meals (e.g., Mountain House, Backpacker’s Pantry, or homemade dehydrated meals).

Day 2: Frozen Lake Exploration

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Wake up to the pristine silence of the BWCAW. After a hot breakfast and coffee, pack a small daypack with water, snacks, and emergency essentials. Today is for exploring the frozen expanse of Snowbank Lake and its surroundings. You can snowshoe across the lake, exploring islands or heading towards portages leading to neighboring lakes like Boot Lake or Ensign Lake (be mindful of ice conditions, always check before venturing into unknown areas).
  • Distance/Time: Plan for a 4-6 mile round-trip exploration, taking 3-5 hours depending on your pace and the terrain.
  • Practical Tip: Layer clothing appropriately to manage body temperature during activity. Bring a thermos with a hot drink to enjoy during a scenic stop. Keep an eye out for animal tracks (moose, wolf, otter) in the fresh snow.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Continue your exploration. Perhaps find a sunny, sheltered spot for a lunch break. Consider trying your hand at ice fishing if you brought a portable auger and have a Minnesota fishing license (not included in budget, requires prior purchase). Alternatively, focus on wildlife photography or simply soaking in the immense solitude. Return to your base camp by mid-afternoon.
  • Practical Tip: Always carry a compass or GPS, and a map of the area. Visibility can change rapidly in winter.
• Evening As the sun begins its descent, settle back into the warmth of your camp. Replenish your firewood supply. Enjoy another satisfying hot dinner and drinks. This is the perfect time to reflect on the day’s beauty, read a book by headlamp, or simply listen to the crackling fire and the deep quiet of the winter woods.
  • Dining Recommendation: Self-prepared winter camping meals.

Day 3: Farewell to the Frost

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy your final breakfast in the heart of the winter wilderness. Begin the process of breaking down camp. This involves packing all your gear meticulously, ensuring nothing is left behind – follow Leave No Trace principles strictly. Take care to brush snow off your tent and pack it as dry as possible to prevent freezing.
  • Practical Tip: Double-check your campsite for any forgotten items or trash. Leave the area looking as though you were never there.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Begin your snowshoe or ski journey back to the Snowbank Lake Entry Point. The return trip often feels quicker as the trail is broken, but maintain a steady pace.
  • Distance/Time: 3-5 miles (approx. 2-3 hours).
  • Practical Tip: Keep water and snacks accessible for the journey out. Once you reach your vehicle, shed outer layers and begin the drive back to Ely. Return your rented gear to Piragis Northwoods Company and thank them for their service.
  • Cost Estimate: Gear Rental: $0 (already accounted for). Gas: ~$50 (for return trip).
• Evening As you leave the silent white world behind, treat yourselves to a well-deserved, warm, sit-down meal in Ely.
  • Dining Recommendation: Boathouse Brewpub & Restaurant (47 E Sheridan St, Ely) offers hearty pub fare in a cozy atmosphere, or Insula Restaurant (41 E Sheridan St, Ely) for a slightly more upscale but still casual dining experience. These are excellent choices to celebrate a successful winter expedition.
  • Cost Estimate: Dinner for two: ~$70-$100 (if budget allows, otherwise pack extra for the drive home).
  • Total Expedition Cost Estimate (2 people): Gas: $100, Gear Rental: $210, Food (self-prepared): $120, Dinner Treat: $70 (optional), Contingency: $200 = $700. This budget relies on you owning appropriate winter clothing, sleeping bags rated to at least -20°F, a 4-season tent, and a reliable winter stove system.