Boundary Waters, MN

Located in northern Minnesota, the boundary waters is one of my favorite places I have been for canoeing and backpacking. There are over 70 entry points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Most of these entry points are on lakes or rivers connected by narrow water ways or trails for portaging. Each point is unique with a wide range of difficulty levels. All of the entry points are listed on the BWCA Website along with difficulty ratings and how to get there. On BWCAWiki.com, there are reviews of many of the entry points, and details about fishing, camping, and how to get to individual lakes.


I have entered on the Echo Trail at entry point #14 and had an amazing experience. The trip started with a 40 rod portage from the parking area down to the river. Traveling up the river was a great time, seeing some great scenic landscapes and wildlife along the way. One of the things that I really like about the BWCAW is the fact that there are only about 3-4 designated camping areas on each lake, thus providing a solemn and tranquil place to pitch a tent. My group found a great spot right on Upper Pauness Lake and set up camp. We were there for a few days and had a great time taking a day trip to the Canadian border, eating lunch on the Canadian waters.

The BWCAW has many backpacking opportunities as well and many people love the chance to take a side trip going deep into the wilderness. I would highly suggest taking a trip to the BWCAW if you would like to get out into some of the most serene woods left untouched by man.