So... while I have everything planned for a late August trip, I have a sinking feeling that the BW might close again (fingers crossed that it does not). 15-years without a missed trip to the BW is going to be hard for me to accept.

So here I am planning a trip in 2021. I am thinking of starting at Ep 16 (Moose River) and ending up at Ep 57 (Magnetic Lake). Which is about 108 total paddle miles not accounting for portages. If we average about 13-miles a day it would make for an 8-day trip.

I am including a Google Map that I created (link below). I would love to hear all of your thoughts on a trip in these areas. I have been paddling the Big Sag area for years so I know it like the back of my hand, but from Ep 16 to Knife Lake would be totally new to me.

Ultimate 2021 Trip

Lots of paddling. I've done all of this and you should enjoy it, if you like to paddle. I think I stayed at your 1st campsite 4 years ago (just S of Warrior Hill) and it was a good spot-pictos just north of there are worth the side trip IMO. I stayed at your camp #4 a few weeks ago and it is fantastic.

Some waterfalls, pictos and a lot of big water (for me). If the weather/wind is good you should enjoy it.

My biggest issue with a trip like this is logistics of a shuttle. Parigas can accommodate you if you don't already have plans.

Good luck and let me know if you need anything.

John

Thanks. Done and Done.

Fine trip with short enough days to get some relax/ fishing time. A few things to consider.

Never have specific campsites in mind. You know this I am sure.

Several of the days you are planning to camp at the end of a lake with several portage to get to the next campsites. Are you going to turn around and go back or start portaging at the end of the day? Lower basswood Falls. Knife River and Saganaga in particular. You also are ending your day on Ottertrack which has very few sites and is real busy.

You have no lay-over day planned. Even if you wish to travel every day those big lakes may rearrange your plans.

I just did half of that trip last month beginning at EP 16 ending at EP 23. Trip started as a loop in and out of EP 16. Thank goodness for my new InReach and a great outfitter who helped us out. I appreciate the link as I would love to do this trip sometime. Wind will be your friend or enemy. Good luck and have fun! I am envious as my first ever BWCA trip In 1983 began at Gunflint Lake. I haven’t been back.

Hello JFinn
The shuttle is the most difficult of this plan. Right now I have a buddy who is willing to drop off and pick up provided I pay for a weekend hotel for him in Grand Marais. Which I will probably do. LOL.

Hey Sedges
Agreed on the campsites. That is more of a "kind of around this site" idea. Been going to the BW long enough to know better than to think your going to get the site you plan on. :P
Also, yeah, I should build in a lay-over day just in case of weather. Good idea.