Travel Guide Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

North of Lake Superior, on the border with Canada, the Boundary Waters Wilderness welcomes visitors who want to immerse themselves in a pristine, uninhabited natural environment. Not a house, not a road, not a store, nothing but forest, wildlife and, of course, thousands of lakes and endless skies. The area can be visited by canoe, using the portage technique of going from lake to lake carrying your canoe (you rent it just before entering the wilderness area). The canoeing season runs from May to September. Although July-August is the peak of the season, the early and late seasons are the most favorable, as there are fewer mosquitoes and the temperatures are still pleasant, not to mention the beautiful fall colors. Special stores, called "Outfitters", can prepare your trip locally. Contact a store, tell them what you want to do, what your level of canoeing is, and together you will agree on an itinerary (there are over 70 routes). We will prepare for you the permits, the material necessary for the good progress of the adventure, by packing tent, stove, sleeping bags and even food. All you have to do is go to the Outfitter on the agreed day and jump into your canoe, wearing warm waterproof clothing. If you're not sure about going alone with your canoe, you can opt for a guided tour. Outfitters are plentiful in Ely and along the Gunflint and Sawbill Trails