We are planning a winter camping trip to the BWCA this weekend (17-20). Anyone been up that way? What are the snow conditions? Hike, snowshoe, ski? Haven't pinpointed our destination yet but thinking up Kawishiwi direction. Thanks!

According the interactive snow map on the NOAA website there is 16 to 20 inches of snow in the Sawbill and Gunflint Trail areas, and anywhere from 8 to 16 inches in the Ely area. Be aware that not all roads and entry points are plowed. Here is another
snow map .

In the Ely area, it's good conditions for skiing on lakes, but on trails and portages you would probably hike. Snowshoes might be useful here or there, but probably not worth bringing along.

Driving up from the North Shore to Ely on Highway 1 a week ago, the snow was definitely heaviest in the Isabella area. I also read a recent ski trail report that said the trails around Isabella have enough snow. Maybe there's more of snow south of there too, like around Sawbill, I don't know.

While there's less snow than we might like around Ely, it should be great conditions for camping.

Just got back about a week ago from a trip up the Gunflint. There was only 4-6 inches of snow on the lakes. 12-16 inches in the woods. Check out my trip report if you'd like a little more detailed info.

West Pike, Gogebic, & Salvelinus Fontinalis ~ Good reason for freezin

Great trip report. Our group will be entering at Clearwater in two weeks. Our goal is Alder. Love the Malone bibs!

Just got back from a week on Little Bass Lake, lake ice was 18" thick and no slush. Snow cover was a solid 6" on lake and 3-4 " on portages.