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Best Boundary Waters Trips for Every Skill Level of Outdoor Enthusiast

Best Boundary Waters Trips for Every Skill Level of Outdoor Enthusiast.

In this article, we will explore how to plan your Boundary Waters Trips and help you find the perfect route for your next outdoor journey.

What are the Boundary Waters?

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a vast and pristine wilderness area located in the northern part of Minnesota and spanning into Canada. The Boundary Waters ranges over 1 million acres and is renowned for its rugged beauty, tranquil lakes, and dense forests. One of its most distinguishing features is its extensive network of waterways with over 1,200 miles of canoe routes. Additionally, the region is home to an abundance of wildlife, including moose, wolves, bears, and countless bird species, offering visitors the chance to experience true wilderness. The Boundary Waters offers an unparalleled outdoor experience unlike any other on the globe.

When is the best time to visit the Boundary Waters?

Although people visit the Boundary Waters all year long, the best time to visit the Boundary Waters is from May to September for ideal conditions for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. June through August tends to be the busiest period, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for extended wilderness trips. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, late spring or early fall offers beautiful foliage, fewer bugs, and a more serene atmosphere.

What type of permit do you need for different Boundary Waters Trips?

A permit is always required to enter the BWCA Wilderness. The type of permit you need depends on how, when, and the duration you plan to visit the Boundary Waters.

Self-issued Permits for Boundary Water Trips

Self-issued permits, also called non-quota permits, do not cost anything and do not need to be reserved in advance. They are available at entry points by kiosk and can be filled out on the spot. If you are visiting the Boundary Waters for a day trip by foot or non-motorized boat you are eligible for a self-issued permit. From October 1st - April 30th overnight and motorized trips are eligible for self-issued permits as well.

Quota-Issued Permits for Boundary Water Trip

If you are visiting the Boundary Waters by motor or planning an overnight trip from May 1st to September 30th you are required to obtain a quota permit. Although walk-ups for these types of permits are available, reservations are strongly recommended as they are limited. To reserve your quota permit, visit Recreation.gov.

5 Tips for Successful Boundary Waters Trips

  1. Plan your routes. With over 1 million acres, visiting the Boundary Waters is not a “winging it” type of venture. Decide your route, which lakes to visit, and where you plan to enter. Which brings us to our next tip.

  2. Choose the correct entry permit. If your trip requires you to obtain a quota permit, it will be linked to an entry point. Ensure you research where you want to enter the Boundary Waters in relation to your intended route.

  3. Pack wisely. If you are planning on traveling between lakes, you’ll be carrying your boat and everything else across dry land. If you can’t portage everything you brought in one or two trips, you will grow tired and have a less enjoyable trip.

  4. Obtain a Minnesota fishing license in advance. Many visitors bring a pan to cook fish they catch with. If you are bringing any type of fishing gear, you must also obtain a license.

  5. Bring freeze-dried food to lessen the weight you are packing without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Trailtopia has plenty of tasty options for every meal including dessert!

Best Boundary Waters Trips for Every Skill Level of Outdoor Enthusiast

Beginner & Family Friendly Boundary Water Trips

Kawishiwi River Triangle is an easy route that is recommended for first-time visitors as there are minimal portages and exceptional beauty. This 3-day trip includes 8 portages and is a total of 21 miles.

Exploration of Basswood Lake is another great route for beginners if you don’t mind sharing a lake with a few motorboats. This 2-day trip includes only 4 portages and is a total of 14 miles.

Intermediate Adventurers & Canoe Classics Boundary Water Trips

Short Loop through Pine Lake is an Intermediate route that skirts the eastern shore of Trout Lake, then travels a winding creek up into Pine Lake. It is one of the more popular excursions. This 3-day trip includes 19 portages and is a total of 22 miles.

Clearwater Lake Loop is an intermediate route that offers exhilarating challenges and opportunities to see less traveled parts of the BWCA. This 3-day trip includes 13 portages and is a total of 21 miles.

Best Trips for Advanced Explorers & Challenging Routes Boundary Water Trips

Horse Lake Loop is a challenging route that takes you into the heart of canoe country, through some of the most storied areas in the Boundary Waters. This 5-day trip includes 14 portages and is a total of 40 miles.

Loop through Clearwater Lake and Lake One is a challenging route that takes you from the scenic South Kawishiwi River up through a series of relatively remote lakes. This 5 day trip includes 22 portages and is a total of 37 miles.

More Resources for Choosing Boundary Water Trips

Friends of the Boundary Waters is an amazing resource for any additional questions you may have. They have created an amazing interactive map with multiple route options and descriptions. They also have an extensive list of guides and outfitters that can help you create a trip of a lifetime.

Final Thoughts on visiting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Venturing into the Boundary Waters offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature and embark on unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you're a seasoned wilderness enthusiast or a novice explorer, the Boundary Waters beckons with its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. By following the tips outlined in this guide and respecting the wilderness through Leave No Trace practices, you can ensure a successful and rewarding trip. Order food, pack your gear, chart your course, and get ready to discover the magic of the Boundary Waters—a place where serenity meets adventure, and nature's wonders await at every turn.