Hi folks,

My boyfriend and I are planning a somewhat spontaneous trip to the BWCA for a couple of weeks from now and we're having trouble choosing an entry point. We've narrowed it down to either EP25 or EP30, but we can't decide which we'd prefer. So we're just looking for any information/suggestions you have to offer.

If we go the EP25 route, we're thinking we'd head up through the Moose channel and paddle along the US/Canada border into Birch, Carp, Knife, and then head east to South Arm Knife and maybe up to Alpine, Red Rock, into Saganaga, and loop back around through Ottertrack. If we go the EP30 route, we would probably start by heading through the number chain and up to Fire and then into Hudson, Insula, and Alice. Then if we have time we may head back and go down the Kawishiwi River into Little Gabbro, Gabbro, and Bald Eagle. We're looking at about a week-long trip, but are flexible on the length. Any suggestions about route options or how long routes might take would also be greatly appreciated.

Although we have never done a kayak camping trip in the BWCA before, we are moderately experienced paddlers and campers. We did take a day trip into the BWCA last summer, and for that we used EP30. But we didn't go far -- paddled through Lake One, Lake Two, and slightly into Lake Three.

As far as what we are looking for in a trip, we only have a few criteria. First of all, we will be paddling an inflatable kayak that we own. I know, I know -- most people will think this is ridiculous. But it's not a toy -- it is a very good quality, durable whitewater kayak from Sea Eagle, and it's definitely up to the task. The down side is that it is very heavy (kayak alone = 60lbs, not including seats, paddles, or any other gear). Because of this, we would like to try our best to minimize portages (both in number and length). Since we did some of the number lake chain last year, we know we are capable of doing short portages, but are not extremely confident in our abilities beyond that. Aside from that, we are both really into photography, so we are looking for lots of beautiful scenery. We will not be doing any fishing on this trip. We would also like somewhere with a reasonable amount of solitude (but we are aware that both of these EP's can get pretty crowded).

At first, we were leaning toward EP30 because it's familiar, there would be less motor boat traffic, and it seems like we could do less portaging over there. But now we might be leaning toward EP25 because it would be new, it seems like there are more options for where we could go, and we could cover a larger distance. We also aren't thrilled about the fact that so much of the number chain has been burnt to a crisp in the Pagami Creek fire. And we kind of like the idea of paddling along the border, although we don't know much regarding the rules about paddling into Canadian waters.

Since we are still very new to all of this, we would really appreciate any advice or suggestions you can offer about our trip!!

I would go with ep25. More options to drop south and explore. I wouldn't worry too much about portaging, 60 lb is not that bad.

You mentioned fire damage on the numbered lakes...and you also mentioned possibly visiting Alpine/Red Rock if you choose 25...just keep in mind that area is burnt as well. And considering your photography ambitions, personally I think you are right to want to avoid the burn areas.

I agree with going in Moose and up the border. Their are many more options. But, beware of the herds of Boy Scouts coming from Northern Tier. They sort of "over run" the area from mid June to mid August.

I like them both and have done both several times. While in the two hours up Moose you will encounter some motors and possibly quite a few canoes, the border through Birch to Ottertrak has long paddles and not too many portages.

Thanks for the suggestions, guys! I appreciate it. Decided on Moose and booked just now -- SO excited!

One thing to also remember about the Numbered Lakes, once you get into the burn area a lot of the campsites were burnt and now have very little shade or protection from the elements. Also, there is very little wind blockage on those lakes as my wife and I found out last year! Getting from the Insula Rapids on Hudson became a battle against the wind which blew the entire time we were there. I'll attach a photo...

Bruce