Boundary Waters Outfitters
Ely and Western BWCA
Contact Information:
Direct Phone: 218-365-3466
Email: info.bwoutfitters@gmail.com
Overview:
Boundary Waters Outfitters (formerly Timber Trail Outfitters) has been sending people into the wilderness area now known as the Boundary Waters since 1939. Our lakeside resort is located right on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and is an ideal place to begin your wilderness adventure.
Having canoed, camped and fished the vast majority of Minnesota's Boundary Waters and Canada's Quetico Park we are well equipped to guide you through planning your wilderness canoe trip. Ely and the Boundary Waters is where we make our home; we are passionate about what we do and hope to be able to share our experiences and knowledge with you when visiting this magnificent place. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area...see it for yourself...the wilderness is waiting.
Boundary Waters Outfitters is located seven miles outside of Ely, Minnesota on a chain of four interconnected lakes. The resort offers lakeside cabins ranging from one to six bedrooms in size. Across from the main lodge is our canoe outfitting headquarters where we plan, pack and assist customers heading into the wilderness.
Our outfitting facility is one of the best in the area and has been featured in multiple newspapers, magazines and television shows. The most recent is happening this year on PBS who is filming a documentary series on Adventure Lodges of North America.
For a true wilderness experience you will remember for years to come plan your next vacation with Boundary Waters Outfitters. We are here to help you make the most of your Northwoods experience.
Main Offerings:
- Full Outfitting - We offer complete outfitting packages that provide everything you need!
- Gear Rental - We offer gear rental at a daily rate.
- Trip/Route Planning Assistance - Anyone visiting us will receiving a free routing/trip planning orientation.
- Entry Point Shuttles - We shuttle to all entry points.
- Guide Service - We offer guided Boundary Waters trips and pair you with a guide based on your trip!
- BWCA Permits - We are a Forest Service permit issuing station.
- Canoe Rental - We offer canoe rental services
- Meal Planning - We can help you plan and provide all the food necessary for your trip!
- Store - Shopping - We have a retail store located on site. Including fishing tackle.
- Bunkhouse - We have bunkhouse accommodations for our guests.
- Grouse Hunting - We offer both DIY and guided grouse hunting.
- Ice Fishing Trips - We offer both DIY and guided ice fishing.
- Quetico Outfitting - We offer BWCA and Quetico Trips
Additional Offerings 1:
- Kevlar Canoe Rental - We offer Northstar and Wenonah kevlar canoes
- Maps - We offer WA Fisher Boundary Waters Maps
- Solo Canoe Rental - We rent and sell Northstar NW solo canoes
- Minnesota Fishing Licenses - We offered guided fishing trips.
- Hot Showers - Hot showers are complimentary to our guests before and after their trip
Additional Offerings 2:
- Northstar Canoes - Yes
- Northstar Canoes - Yes
- Wenonah Canoes - Yes
- Gear Sales - We sell used and new gear/canoes
- Food Sales - We sell camp food.
- Fishing Tackle - We offer a wide variety of fishing tackle and also put together custom tackle kits.
- Satellite Phones - We have Sat Phone Rentals
Boundary Waters Entry Points Supported
- Crab Lake and Cummings from Burntside Lake - 4
- Moose River (south) - 8
- Little Indian Sioux River (south) - 9
- Little Indian Sioux River (north) - 14
- Moose/Portage River (north) - 16
- Stuart River - 19
- Angleworm Lake - 20
- Mudro Lake (restricted--no camping on Horse Lake) - 22
- Mudro Lake - 23
- Wood Lake - 26
- Snowbank Lake Only - 28
- Ojibway Lake/North Kawishiwi River - 29
- Lake One - 30
- South Kawishiwi River - 32
- Little Gabbro Lake - 33
- Island River - 34
- Isabella Lake - 35
- Kawishiwi Lake - 37
- Little Isabella River - 75
- Snake River - 84
- Fall Lake - 24
- Moose Lake - 25
- Snowbank Lake - 27
- Farm Lake - 31
Quetico Entry Points Supported
- Bottle River - 44
- Basswood River - 51
- Sarah Lake - 52
- Kahshahapiwi Lake - 53
- Agnes Lake - 61
- Carp Lake - 62
- Knife Lake - 71
- Man Chain Lakes - 72
- Falls Chain Lakes - 73
Spend Your Summer in the Wilderness! Work Hard, Play Hard at Boundary Waters Outfitters
Are you ready for an unforgettable summer experience? Join our team at the edge of the untouched Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA), where adventure and hard work go hand in hand. Spend your days off exploring over a million acres of pristine Northern Minnesota—camping, fishing, and paddling through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
Now Hiring: Wilderness Outfitting Staff (Summer 2025)
- Season Dates: Flexible start in early to mid-May, with the season running into late September. If you are a college student, we can adapt to fit your academic calendar.
- Hours: Full-time, 40+ hours per week, with overtime opportunities.
- Compensation: $1800/month with housing included or $15/hour without housing. We also give out an end-of-season bonus ranging between $1000 and $2000!
- Housing: On-site housing available (food not included).
- Requirements: A personal vehicle is needed for this position as we’re located 7 miles from town.
What You’ll Do:
- Pack and clean gear for small and large groups.
- Load and unload Kevlar canoes from trailers and racks.
- Shuttle guests to and from BWCA entry points.
- Clean outfitting facility
- Safely operate a 12-passenger van with a trailer.
- Explore all the BWCA and Ely Area has to offer!
What You’ll Need:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 70 pounds (canoes and packs).
- Physical stamina to stand, walk, and move throughout the day.
- Adaptability for Minnesota’s ever-changing weather—be ready for anything!
- A passion for working outdoors and a love for adventure.
Employee Benefits
When you join the Boundary Waters Outfitters team, you’ll enjoy more than just a paycheck—you’ll gain access to incredible perks that make this job an adventure of a lifetime:
- Access to Our Gear: Use our camping equipment and canoes whenever you want to explore the BWCA.
- Free Fully-Outfitted Camping Trip: Treat your friends and family to an unforgettable wilderness experience, fully outfitted by us!
- End-of-Season Bonus: Earn between $1,000–$2,000 for your hard work and dedication.
- Memories for a Lifetime: Spend your summer surrounded by breathtaking wilderness, amazing coworkers, and experiences you’ll never forget.
Why Work With Us?
At Boundary Waters Outfitters, we foster a fun, supportive, and dynamic workplace where hard work and great attitudes are rewarded. We value team members who are driven, outgoing, and passionate about creating memorable experiences for our guests. On your days off, you’ll have access to the incredible BWCA for fishing, paddling, and camping adventures.
Ready to make the most of your summer? Don’t wait—apply now and join a team that works hard, loves the outdoors, and creates memories that last a lifetime!
How to Apply
To apply, email your resume to info.bwoutfitters@gmail.com or call Peter at 218-365-3466