Wow is equipment hard to find this year with everyone distancing!

I am in need of a 4 person Northwind Canoe. I am from MN, but now live in TX. Spent about 100 days in the BWCA over my life.

I'll be doing a trip with the family on Brule in the next few weeks and cannot seem to locate one of these big canoes!

Would be happy to rent or buy!

Let me know if you have some ideas....

Check with Rockwood; it's not too bad of an excursion from Brule. They rent them, maybe they have one available. Sawbill has them also, but the 3 seat version. You could always purchase a drop-in seat if needed. Sawtooth Outfitters has them also, probably the most convenient of the three outfitters listed for Brule EP.

I will do that. Are the backroads from Rockwood to Brule passable in a 4wd ?

I recommend trying Sawtooth first to see if they have any NW20 canoes available on your dates. I have rented NW20 4 seaters from both Sawtooth and Rockwood and had great experiences at both outfitters. Sawtooth is just more convenient for that EP if you are driving up the North Shore to get there.

Last time I checked, admittedly a couple years ago, Sawbill only had MNIIIs with three seats.

Sawtooth has everything rented out!

I agree that location is super convenient. We stay at Bluefin Bay sometimes depending on EP... makes Sawtooth a perfect place... right across 61 from check in!

teleskier: "I will do that. Are the backroads from Rockwood to Brule passable in a 4wd ? "

They are usually passable in even a small car. They are generally well maintained.

I work for an outfitter in Ely, we have Northwind B19s and one B20. Ely Outfitting Company and Boundary Waters Guide Service on Sheridan St. If you call to check dates/availability, ask for Nick or Jason.

If you haven’t left yet and still need one, I just listed this: https://bwca.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=forum.thread&threadId=1213586&forumID=133&confID=1