BWCA Entry Point, Route, and Trip Report Blog
September 17 2025
Entry Point 62 - Clearwater Lake
Clearwater Lake entry point allows overnight paddle or motor (10 HP max). This entry point is supported by Gunflint Ranger Station near the city of Grand Marais, MN. The distance from ranger station to entry point is 33 miles. Motors allowed on Clearwater Lake only. This area was affected by blowdown in 1999.
Number of Permits per Day: 2
Elevation: 1673 feet
Latitude: 48.0702
Longitude: -90.3752
Clearwater Lake - 62
Number of Permits per Day: 2
Elevation: 1673 feet
Latitude: 48.0702
Longitude: -90.3752
Clearwater Lake - 62
Father & Son 15 year Reunion Trip.
by coachjeff
Trip Report
Entry Date:
August 17, 2013
Entry Point:
East Bearskin Lake
Number of Days:
4
Group Size:
2
Trip Introduction:
My father introduced me to the outdoors at a young age. By the time I was 12, I was already a veteran backpacker. 15 years ago, Dad and I did our first BWCA trip. This was our last camping trip of my childhood. Since then, I kept hiking and canoeing with my dog and an assortment of friends and family. The last time I was in the BW, I had a great, peaceful experience with my brother in law and some friends. Lately, most of my trips outside of the experience have ended up with pretty bad results, such as experience disease, a hiking partner needing to be evacuated, ect. I was so discouraged by these outcomes that I was almost ready to sell all of my camping gear.
In a final try to renew my love for the outdoors, I started to recruit friends for a BW trip. I couldn't get anybody to go. I was about ready to give up until I asked my Dad. He hadn't been camping, hiking, or canoeing since our last trip 15 years ago. He was in. I was hesitant, but I booked the permits. And away we go...
Report
Friday, July 31, 2015 Day 3 it was time to pack up and leave. Too short of a trip, but I was glad for the serenity. Luck would have it this was the best day. Sun was out, few clouds and no wind. On one of the Portages back out I talked with a Scouter (Boy Scout Adult), they spent the night in the campsite next to mine. They were on Loon Lake during the wind and rain. It was a challenge for them with 4 foot waves. He was happy with the beautiful day on our way out. Back to Ely for a shower and change of clothes. By the way if you rent your canoe from Voyageur North the shower is free along with a cold one from their fridge. By now it was mid-day so I decided to make it a two day drive back to Indianapolis. The trip was too short, but it gave me the time I needed to think. 
discuss this trip report (7 comments) - last post on September 19, 2013