1500 Miles of Canoe Trails at Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Located in the Superior National Forest in Northern Minnesota is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which contains over one million areas of wild land. It is one of the most popular places in the world for outdoor lovers to come and experience the true wilderness.
More than 200,000 people visit each year and travel along the more than 1500 miles of canoe routes and stay at the more than 2000 campsites scattered through the area. The land is covered in forest, with pine, cedar, fir, and spruce making up a large part of the flora.
A canoe trip allows you to witness firsthand the vast array of wildlife in the area. Bears, bobcats, geese, loons, lynx, and bald eagles are just a few of the many animals that make this area their home. You also stand a good chance of seeing wolves in the wild, as this area contains the largest population of wolves in the United States.
With so many different rivers and lakes to choose from, you should make up your own route, portages and all, before you head out to the area. This will give you a better idea of what you can expect.
When you are planning your trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, or BWCAW, be sure that you have the correct permits for the time that you will be in the area. You also want to make sure the permit specifies the entry point you will be using – there are many different entry points in the BWCAW. Also, be sure you have the proper gear for your trip. This includes, but isn’t limited to water, food, survival and first aid gear, sleeping bags, and life jackets.
All the regular rules for traveling through the wilderness and camping apply. Be sure to put out the fires at your campsite with plenty of water and make sure they are fully out before you leave; use dry, fallen wood for your fire; keep your food covered tight and away from camp to avoid attracting animals.
If you are traveling with a group, you need to be aware that the BWCAW allows up to 9 people and 4 canoes (or any watercraft) per group. The canoes each needs to be registered as well, either in Minnesota if you are a native, or your own home state.
You are allowed to bring your dog, but it must be on a leash while portaging and needs to be kept under your control at all times. Also, make sure you clean up after your animal.
A canoe trip through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is one that you will never forget.
Forest Headquarters
8901 Grand Ave Place
Duluth, MN 55808
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