Going into the boundary waters EP23 Mudro any info anyone can give me would be very much appreciatd. First time going with my sons. Leaving June 20th thanks in advance

I will be there in August. I have searched this site extensively and there is a ton of info on Mudro and the entire surrounding area. A quick search will reveal much of what you will want to know. It is nice to hear it fresh though so I will be following this thread.
Have fun and post a report when you get back!

What are the goals of this trip besides enjoying time with your sons? Is fishing a priority, base camping , or loop trip?

Basecamping then taking day trips to fish different lakes in the area around fairy

Same thing was asked a day or two ago here or in the fishing section. I agree with the search results, tons of info

Feel free to read my two trip reports through Mudro. One trip in 2010 took us to Boot Lake and the other to Horse. There are so many options through that entry point it's hard to know where to point you. For what it's worth, Fairy was a huge disappointment from a fishing standpoint. Granted we were there during the mayfly hatch, but it wasn't worth the time and effort from my perspective. Others may have had a very different experience, but no burning desire on my part to go back there anytime soon.

The 'mountain goat' portage into fourtown is aptly named.

I'm just gonna leave it at that!

BobDobbs: "The 'mountain goat' portage into fourtown is aptly named.


I'm just gonna leave it at that!"

Yes, that's my best piece of advice - getting to Fourtown from the south is much tougher than the map makes it look. Be prepared for some challenge there.

I'll be entering EP 23 in August as well. Dads and daughters trip, can't wait!

I never really thought the "billy goat portage" was as bad in real life as others had portrayed it. Was just kind of an initial climb, a long flat, and then descent. The fact we took it at the end of the trip with a lighter food pack maybe was the difference? The last portage which finally gets you into Fourtown, seemed to be much more technical because of the steep rock slope.

If water is low, you may be better off walking the creek bed for that last portage.

I have known it as the 3 dragons Portages

I agree with mirth's description. It's not bad at all, not long, quite scenic - I enjoyed it. There's a short portage on either end with a vey short paddle between. The "technical" one at the end was interesting as a solo - I did walk the creek one time (entered and exited that way).

The first one is a trip ender, rocks all over. Second is uphill it seems the whole way. And the last is easier if you go a little farther than the steep rock face, there is an easy put in

I'll agree the three portages aren't that bad, but in the rain, the second one can be very slick.

First one def has lots of ankle turning potential, and the the third is just annoying to have to unload/load again so quickly.

Just be mentally prepared that these three portages will take a decent amount of time and you'll be good.

Sarge1357: "Going into the boundary waters EP23 Mudro any info anyone can give me would be very much appreciatd. First time going with my sons. Leaving June 20th thanks in advance"

I am going in on June 19th at Mudro with my son.....

Went in two years ago at Mudro, based camped on Fourtown and made short day trips. We didn't mind the portages in and out of Fourtown. We single portaged, took our time. There definitely are some areas to watch out for, but if you take your time you should not have any problems.

This trip will be heading further north to Basswood River.

The portages are about a 4/5 on a scale of ten. Their big problem is they are narrow and rocky. Have done them in the rain and even in the dark. If Fourtown is your goal take the portages. If you are headed up Horse to Basswood Falls take the Tin Can Mike route. IMPORTANT: Absolutely get an early start and camp early. If you get to Horse Lake late you may find it difficult to get a spot. There is a great campsite at the end ofT Tin Can Mike on a long sloping rock. If you hit it at the right time there is a huge blueberry patch at the top of the hill. The view from there isn't bad either. Have a great trip!