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My first trip to the Boundary Waters changed the way I looked at paddling. I already had more than 15 years of paddling experience on Iowa rivers and lakes, but until that time I had done little in the way of true wilderness canoeing.

That first adventure was made possible by friends who took me along on their annual family excursion. We spent six days paddling and portaging from Snowbank to a variety of lakes near Ely.

Since that time I've introduced many friends of mine to the area. I've also listened to the stories of dozens of customers who returned thrilled and enthusiastic after their first BWCA experience.

Combined with Quetico Provincial Park in Canada and Voyageur's National Park this region consists of 2.5 million acres of wilderness. Luckily, for paddling enthusiasts, a great deal of it is water.

So, if you're looking for an awesome canoeing experience for yourself, your family, or a few close friends, you need to head north to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in northern Minnesota. This wilderness area is a chain of lakes connected by portage trails. You paddle across one lake, pick up your canoe and gear and carry them to the next lake.

Before venturing into this region you'll need to acquire a permit. You'll also need to practice Leave No Trace camping techniques. Camping in the BWCA is only permitted at developed Forest Service campsites with steel fire grates and wilderness latrines. Party size is limited to a maximum of 9 people and 4 watercraft.

A Canoe Gets A Ride Down A Portage Trail

Solo Canoeing In The Boundary Waters

Quetico has similar regulations. However, there are no designated campsites. Visitors may camp wherever they wish within certain limitations.

Be aware that black bears frequent this region and will be happy to help themselves to your food. Also black flies and mosquitoes will try to make you their food at certain times of the year. Be prepared.

If you're planning your first trip to the BWCA, CanoeSport Outfitters can help. We have a variety of resources and have several canoeing courses which will teach you how to pack your gear, plan your meals, and get your permits.

Check out our canoeing and trip planning courses.

If you'd like to make your first journey to the BWCA without planning all the details, join us for a shared adventure. CanoeSport Guided BWCA Trip.

Other resources include:

www.bwcaw.org

www.queticopark.com

Additional Boundary Waters Articles Will Be Coming Soon!

203 West Salem Ave., Indianola, IA 50125

515-961-6117 or 1-800-257-6080 / e-mail: casey@canoesportoutfitters.com