Hi,

First time boundary waters trip coming up! We got an entry point for Clearwater. I have heard great things about Pine Lake as well (from the Erik and Adam Tumblehome Podcast - invaluable for planning so far as a complete newbie). Because of this, I would like to hit both lakes and am very interested in the Clearwater Pine look (the shortened version of the Clearwater Loop, avoiding Mountain Lake and all those).

We have 4 nights. I want to do Clearwater -> Caribou/Little Caribou -> Pine-> Mcfarland -> John/Little John -> East/West Pike -> then finish with going back through Clearwater.

Is this doable for 4 nights? Is there the possibility of a layover day with this itinerary?

Thank you so much for your help - I cannot wait for this trip.

Very doable.

Just watch the wind on those 'tunnel' lakes. There are some nice sites along that route. Check the maps section.


photo is of the very nice eastern most site on Clearwater #684.

maps section

Yes, generally doable. But check weather reports for wind speed and direction. As Tuscarora mentioned, a strong head wind on the long skinny lakes can really slow you down or cause you to need an extra day. Not much in the way of shoreline variations or islands to give you protection. Fortunately, this summer there seems to be a lot of days with winds from the south.

TuscaroraBorealis: "Very doable.


Just watch the wind on those 'tunnel' lakes. There are some nice sites along that route. Check the maps section.



photo is of the very nice eastern most site on Clearwater #684.

maps section "

Thank you!

If you do this route make sure to have time set aside to visit Johnson Falls! It's worth it, amazing to say the least! We did an East bearskin entry and Clearwater exit this year, including the big portage from Canoe into Pine, and Johnson Falls was amazing. It was one of my bucket list places, so I got to check one off and I have to say I want to go back! I'd plan on a half day at the falls though, it's a good hike up and you'll want to spend some time there.
Here is a couple of pictures. Travel safe and have a good time!

Indy Scouter

Totally doable. In fact I did the same loop but entering from McFarland side a few years back with my wife and my kids when they were 5 and 7. We had lots of extras and I triple portaged while wife and kids singled.

If I were in your shoes I'd try to get to Pine by end of day 1, John day 2, West Pike day 3, then out on the final day.

The only caution I have for you is that as your first trip you are visiting what I think are the most scenic 15 miles of the BWCA and you'll be chasing that ideal the rest of your trips.

IndyScouters: "If you do this route make sure to have time set aside to visit Johnson Falls! It's worth it, amazing to say the least! We did an East bearskin entry and Clearwater exit this year, including the big portage from Canoe into Pine, and Johnson Falls was amazing. It was one of my bucket list places, so I got to check one off and I have to say I want to go back! I'd plan on a half day at the falls though, it's a good hike up and you'll want to spend some time there.
Here is a couple of pictures. Travel safe and have a good time!


Indy Scouter








"

When you check out Johnson Falls be sure to check out the colossal cedar tree just downstream from the lower drop.