There's no place on earth like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
The majority of the BWCAW and the Superior National Forest are open for public use and enjoyment. Find more information about wildfires and related risks on the Superior National Forest fire information page.
It's sundown in the wilderness. All you can hear is the cry of a loon and the crackling of your campfire, as woodsmoke drifts gently across the water. You spent the last three days paddling to this perfect place, and now it's time to relax. There's no place on earth like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA).
The BWCA is an expanse of lakes and forest stretching for 150 miles along the northeast border of Minnesota. Part of Superior National Forest, the BWCA is federally protected as a wilderness preserve, with all but a few lakes designated as paddle only, no motors allowed. Overland trails called portages link the lakes, and canoes and gear are carried from one lake to another.
Canoe outfitters at the edge of the BWCA provide canoeing and camping gear, food and cooking supplies, permits and route planning, advice and expertise. There are outfitters in Ely, Crane Lake, Babbitt, and along the Gunflint Trail at Grand Marais and the Sawbill Trail at Tofte. Paddling routes can be easy--a couple of days, with little or no portaging, or more challenging--up to two weeks on an extended loop of lakes, rivers and portages.
Canoe Outfitters:
Community Tourism Info:
Public Sites: