BWCA Entry Point, Route, and Trip Report Blog
April 27 2024
Entry Point 38 - Sawbill Lake
Sawbill Lake entry point allows overnight paddle only. This entry point is supported by Tofte Ranger Station near the city of Tofte, MN. The distance from ranger station to entry point is 25 miles. Access is a boat landing at Sawbill Lake. This area was affected by blowdown in 1999.
Number of Permits per Day: 11
Elevation: 1802 feet
Latitude: 47.8699
Longitude: -90.8858
Sawbill Lake - 38
Number of Permits per Day: 11
Elevation: 1802 feet
Latitude: 47.8699
Longitude: -90.8858
Sawbill Lake - 38
Wandering to Wonder daytrip
by wyattBWCA
Trip Report
Entry Date:
September 21, 2023
Entry Point:
Sawbill Lake
Number of Days:
0
Group Size:
1
Trip Introduction:
I had been wondering about Wonder Lk. for a few years; finally, late this September, I dedicated a solo daytrip to check it out. The day was one of those glorious northern MN fall days: sun, light breeze, low humidity (I think?), fall colors etc. I put in on Sawbill around noon. It was quite busy in the parking lot and at the landing, but quiet once I got out on the lake. Didn't run into anyone on the highway to Alton, but all 4 sites I passed were occupied. I arrived at the portage to Wonder around 1:30. The way the sun shone on the portage entrance through the cedars made it look like a gateway to Heaven. I had read a couple reports that stated the portage was overgrown and that Wonder Lk is seldom used, so I set out to hike the portage without my canoe. While there were some slightly overgrown spots, the trail was very easy to follow and of course by the time I got to Wonder I regretted not having the canoe! I took a few steps into the water, soaked in what I could see of the lake, told myself I'd have to return next season with the canoe, and hiked back to Alton. I ate my lunch and drank my wine while floating on Alton listening to the loons. I'm always amazed at how much enjoyment and adventure a person can have in a 4 hour daytrip!
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discuss this trip report (2 comments) - last post on August 24, 2023