Happy New Year all! Looking to do my first solo trip over Memorial Day. I have done 20+ BWCAW/Quetico trips, but never a solo. I am a good paddler and a C- portager.

For my first trip, I would like to paddle day one and camp. Paddle day two and base camp for two nights. Paddle day four and camp. Then paddle day five. It’s okay to be in a busy area. This will make my wife more comfortable.

My initial thoughts were Little Indian Sioux to Shell and back, Moose to Ensign (and base camp) or even Trout Lake to Pine Lake and back. Thoughts and ideas?

I'd stick with LIS, smaller water, as long as you stay off Lacroix. Busy enough, in case you needed assistance.

Hi klanks,
I took my first solo three years ago using Baker Lake (EP 39). Other than the many flotillas on the popular route, it was a great first choice because of smaller bodies of water - very pretty (and popular) area.

jillpine: "Hi klanks,
I took my first solo three years ago using Baker Lake (EP 39). Other than the many flotillas on the popular route, it was a great first choice because of smaller bodies of water - very pretty (and popular) area.
"

+1. Great area. Easier portages. Go out to South Temperance and back.

Looking for more adventure? The Cherokee Lake Loop can be done in 3-4 days. 4-5 Days makes it an easy loop with the Cherokee to Sawbill chunk the longest day.