Begin Your
EXPLORE THE WILDERNESS WITH EASE
Plan Your Boundary
Waters Trip
01.
STEP ONE
Pick a Time of Year
Summer: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Boundary Waters becomes a destination for adventure seekers and those looking to relax, fish, and discover the wonder of this national treasure.
Fall: Crisp weather, stunning colors, fewer people, and no bugs. There’s a reason people pick fall to get their Boundary Waters fix!
Winter: Once the lakes freeze, people exchange their paddles and canoes for snowshoes and dogsleds. Those who embrace the cold are rewarded by unmatched beauty, silence, and wonder.
02.
STEP TWO
Plan Your Route
Our interactive route-finding tool makes it easy to find your next adventure. With 1,200 miles of canoe routes and endless options of where to go, you’ll need a couple lifetime’s worth of paddling before you get bored.
03.
STEP THREE
Secure Your Permit
Between May 1 and September 30, securing a quota permit is a must for any overnight visit to the Boundary Waters.
Fortunately, Portage Trail Outfitters & Resort is uniquely situated within the BWCA, serving as your direct gateway to this pristine wilderness right from our doorstep.
When you plan your trip with us, we take care of the details, including obtaining your quota permit. Be sure to plan ahead, as these permits are in high demand and limited in availability.
PROVEN BOUNDARY WATERS ADVICE
Tried & True Tips
With our years of experience and the insights shared by many paddlers, our compilation of tried-and-true tips is ever-expanding. For a comprehensive list of adventurer advice or to contribute your own insights, please reach out. Let's enhance each BWCA journey together.
"Boil your water!"
GARY F.
Milwaukee, WI
"Always wear a life jacket."
BILLY K.
Madison, WI
"Bring plenty of food."
SALLY W.
Los Angeles, CA
"Camp with close friends."
STEPTH O.
Ontario, CA
"Bring a current map!"
BAILEY C.
Flint, MI
"Leave no trace."
JOANNA S.
Rapid City, SD
DISCOVER LOCAL SIGHTS
Nearby Attractions
Looking to add a rest day to your trip or ready to explore on solid ground? Located just 8 miles northeast of Ely, MN, there are several enticing attractions within a short drive:
- International Wolf Center Delve into the fascinating world of wolves. Did you know that red wolves are larger than coyotes but smaller than gray wolves? Learn more about these remarkable creatures at the International Wolf Center.
- North American Bear Center Pay a visit to the North American Bear Center. Discover why male bears can lose over 100 lbs during the winter months and observe live bears in captivity.
- Dorothy Molter Museum Explore the legacy of the Root Beer Lady. Take a guided tour of the home of the last resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Learn about her role as a beloved host to countless travelers before 1987.
EXPLORE BWCA HISTORY
Why Wilderness Matters
Nestled within its vast 1 million-plus acres, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) offers unparalleled adventures, including canoeing, fishing, backpacking, dog sledding, and pristine wilderness experiences. With over a thousand lakes and 2,200 backcountry campsites, it's a premier tourist attraction in Minnesota.
This captivating wilderness hosts two distinct ecosystems: the boreal forest (taiga) and the North Woods, creating a rich tapestry of plant and animal species. From conifers like red pine and white spruce to deciduous varieties such as birch and maple, it's a haven for nature lovers.
Preserving 400,000 acres of untouched old-growth forest shaped by natural fires, the BWCA is a living testament to the wilderness. Despite the 1999 Boundary Waters blowdown, where millions of trees fell, we continue to protect this cherished landscape with prescribed burns.
Explore the BWCA's rich history and ecological significance, where wilderness truly matters.
DISCOVER THE BWCA WITH CONFIDENCE
Take The Next Step
What's next? Save the stress and let us handle the details of your next BWCA adventure. At Portage Trail Outfitters & Resort, our goal is to tailor your wilderness experience to your preferences, ensuring it's enjoyable, memorable, and hassle-free.
