Overview
Located along the Canadian border, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) is known for its expansive wilderness. Join our five-day Boundary Waters trip to paddle the pristine lakes of this northern gem. Experience stillness, silence and solitude as you travel among the pines, birch and cedar. Listen to loons call as the sun rises to burn mist off of a mirror-still lake. Relax around an evening campfire and watch for shooting stars and northern lights. Our lightweight Wenonah canoes make paddling and portaging easier than ever.
Travel Safely With Us
Whether you are an outdoors enthusiast or looking to try something new, Wilderness Inquiry makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors. We take care of all the planning, provide meals and gear, and our guides ensure that all travelers are able to safely participate in activities. Not only will you have a fun and meaningful personal experience, but every trip you take with Wilderness Inquiry helps provide access to outdoor experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Travel with us today!
Itinerary
Expand All FieldsDay 1: Meet your trip mates and paddle from Brule Lake to Jock Mock Bay.
Your trip starts in the afternoon at one of the BWCA ranger stations. You will drive to your entry point where the trailer will be unloaded and your gear packed into large dry bags. The first day’s paddle will be from the Brule Lake access point to a campsite in Jock Mock Bay. In camp you will prepare dinner and enjoy an evening around the fire as you discuss trip expectations.
Day 2: Paddle the serene waters north to Cone Bay before traversing several portages to Winchell Lake.
Wake up early for great coffee and breakfast and review canoeing skills. Break camp and get underway, paddling north to Cone Bay and traversing several portages into Winchell Lake. Find a nice campsite on the north shore of Winchell and settle in for an evening around the fire.
Day 3: Spend a day hiking the palisades of Winchell Lake.
You'll spend a layover day on Winchell Lake. The southern shore of Winchell has steep cliffs and palisades. If the group is feeling ambitious, you may climb up the cliff for a spectacular view. Otherwise, take a day trip to the east end of the lake or visit the nearby Omega Lake and Gaskin Lake.
Day 4: Fish, bird watch, and explore the area surrounding Brule Lake.
In the morning travel south through several portages and camp on the east end of Brule Lake. As the group learns to work together, more time is set aside for fishing, bird watching, exploring and learning camp crafts.
Day 5: Make your final paddle across Brule Lake and say farewell to your group mates.
Rise with the sun and paddle across Brule Lake. Pack up the van for the ride home, the trip officially ends in the late morning.
Dates & Fees
WI leads trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness but currently has no dates scheduled. If you have a group of people interested, we can set up a customized adventure just for you! Please contact us or request a trip quote below if you are interested in a group trip to this destination.
Request Trip Quote »What to Expect
TERRAIN/ROUTE CHOICES: The BWCA lies on the Canadian Shield, and is characterized by exposed granite with a thin layer of topsoil. The lakes and trails make this wilderness area one of the most accessible in the country. The BWCA offers a wide range of route options from very easy to very difficult. Wilderness Inquiry runs trips all over the wilderness area, on all kinds of routes. Your trail guides will determine the route you will take, based on wilderness conditions and your group’s interests. No previous experience is needed to complete this trip.
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