Boundary Waters Trip Reports, Blog, BWCA, BWCAW, Quetico Park

BWCA Entry Point, Route, and Trip Report Blog

September 19 2026

Entry Point 27 - Snowbank Lake

Snowbank Lake entry point allows overnight paddle or motor (25 HP max). This entry point is supported by Kawishiwi Ranger Station near the city of Ely, MN. The distance from ranger station to entry point is 24 miles. Access is a boat landing or canoe launch at Snowbank Lake. Many trip options for paddlers. This area was affected by blowdown in 1999.

Number of Permits per Day: 8
Elevation: 1191 feet
Latitude: 47.9716
Longitude: -91.4326
Snowbank Lake - 27

Ensign May 2026

by birdonbats
Trip Report

Entry Date: May 24, 2026
Entry Point: Moose Lake
Number of Days: 4
Group Size: 4

Trip Introduction:
Quick and easy fishing, camping, paddling trip

Report


My friend Kevin, along with my two sons got on the water about 230 PM. The wind was with us as we went north on Moose and Newfound and then east through Splash to Ensign. We like the east side of Ensign for fishing but the first 5 or 6 site we looked at were occupied. We ended up with a choice between sites 1217 and 1218. Let's just say 1217 deserves the 1 rating. Uffda. Who wants to camp on a hill. 1218 was a little better, but no trees or shade anywhere near the tent pads. No fishing on day 1, but we ate very well. Day 2 was rough on fishing. Luckily, my eldest ( the least experienced fisherman ) woke up earlier and caught a few walleye from shore. I think we only caught a couple fish the rest of the day. 85F on May 25th was just wrong and the fish were not biting. Kevin fried the fish we had and it was an excellent dinner. Day 3 we decided to fish only in the morning and the evening. I think it hit 88F. We hung out in the pine tree forest near camp and just shot the breeze while trying to stay cool. We did see a mama bear and her cub on the shore about a 1/4 mile away at dusk. We also had a snowshoe hare in camp and saw eagles, chipmunks, frogs, crayfish, a garter snake and more. The ruffed grouse were very loud as it was mating season. Got on the water by 920 am and to our car back on Moose by 1230. Only 1 short portage ( and a quick little paddle thru a high water portage) and again the wind was with us. Another good trip enjoying nature and the camaraderie of my sons and friend. 

 


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