How To Plan A Boundary Waters Canoe Trip?

Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a world-renowned canoe destination, offering hundreds of lakes and rivers accessible primarily by canoe. The area is one of America’s most beautiful and remote adventures, with over 1,200 miles of canoeable lakes and rivers. Planning a trip to the Boundary Waters can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide for beginners breaks down the components of the trip-planning process into easy-to-follow web pages.

To plan a trip to the Boundary Waters, first decide on the type of trip to take. The two most popular modes of travel are hiking and canoeing. In this guide for beginners, we discuss how to plan a trip to the Boundary Waters, the best time to visit, the best Boundary Waters canoe area routes and entry points, and the ultimate kit list.

To navigate the Boundary Waters, it is best to orient yourself using portages, campgrounds, and prominent features of the shoreline. To plan your trip, know the rules and regulations, assess the group in terms of abilities and desires, determine the dates, develop a plan, pick an entry point, and get the permit.

For a first-timer, it is essential to be fully outfitted with a proper tent, pack, stove, cookware, etc. If not guided, it is recommended to wear a life jacket. Start planning your BWCA trip today with our step-by-step guide, maps, and resources to experience the life-changing magic of the BWCA.