Good morning.
Does anyone know what the conditions of portages and water flow are in Gabbro and Bald Eagle lakes?
We have trip planned for May 7 and I’m concerned about icy conditions and snow covered campsites……
Any insight would be appreciated, thanks.

Snow is disappearing, rivers and creeks are full, lakes are walkable.

The road in there currently isn't clear and everything is frozen. If I were you - I'd pray for warm weather.

This is what I suspected.
I’ll call the outfitter in Ely but sounds like we might have to cancel our trip….
Thanks for the advice.

Spruce Road & nearby Kawishiwi River Bridge. Photos taken a few minutes ago...

Looks promising, I’m keeping my fingers crossed. There is still hope we might be able to make it, thanks for sharing those pictures !!

It will be close but I think you should be ok. Bald Eagle opens early. I've heard loons flying above the last few days and they seem to start hanging in the area about a week before the ice gives out. I skied on the lakes Mon-Wednesday but doubt the feasibility of skiing when I return on Monday.

TuscaroraBorealis: "Spruce Road & nearby Kawishiwi River Bridge. Photos taken a few minutes ago... "

Bear in mind that the road was not plowed east of the South Kawishiwi River EP this winter. There may be snow on it still, especially after having been packed down by a season of snowmobile traffic.

Thanks again.
I think we will talk to the outfitter next week before we drive to Ely and make a final decision.
I also wonder about condition of the campsites and accessibility if there is still residual ice or packed snow in them.
We’re still hopeful though.
Appreciate the good advice from the experts.

Kiwi: "Thanks again.
I think we will talk to the outfitter next week before we drive to Ely and make a final decision.
I also wonder about condition of the campsites and accessibility if there is still residual ice or packed snow in them.
We’re still hopeful though.
Appreciate the good advice from the experts."

7 days from now there will still be snow/ice on the portages and landings, how much really depends on the high temps this week. If you get lucky enough for ice out, I would bring whatever gear you think you may need for that. At the very least you can probably get away with some yaktrax for traction and post-hole your way through. Temps looking mostly good all week but unless it gets in the 70s-80s again I dont see it all being gone.

Literally just got off the portage trail into Little Gabbro a couple minutes ago.


As gravelroad mentioned, the Spruce Road was still partially covered in slush just past the South Kawishiwi access. Yet, I made it back to the Gabbro EP without serious issue in my minivan.

The portage trail is completely clear of any obstructions. Alternately there are long swaths of open ground and sections of calf deep snow. On average I would say less than ankle deep snow on the portage trail. I made it across in my tenner shoes without getting wet.

The lake has large open sections but, there is still considerable ice too. However, it is looking rather sickly. It currently raining and there's a bit of a breeze. Coupling that with the continued high-water pushing through from several directions and the warming trend in the current forecast; personally I'd still plan on heading in. Im thinking your worst case scenario....You may have a unique opportunity to actually see the ice go completely out on the bigger lakes.

Obviously things will be wet but, you shouldn't have much competition for campsites so, you should be able to minimize that.

If it's of importance or concern? I'm posting this from my cell phone @ the EP parking lot.

Folks, thanks again for all the advice and up to date info on the lakes and portage.
We’re taking our rubber boots and adding some traction to them if needed.
The warmer temps next week are definitely a positive sign.
I truly appreciate everyone’s efforts to keep me informed.
Best wishes to all.

There is a camp site down the shoreline to the left when you get to the lake. You can walk the shore to that campsite. Worst case, you could camp there and watch the ice go out. If you can get onto the lake, it should be open where there is current and the sites between Little Gabbro and Gabbro should be accessible. Paddle close to shore, that water is cold.

Appreciate the advice once again.
Thanks for all the safety tips.
If anyone happens to be scouting again entry at Little Gabbro during the week please share a few snapshots. Those pictures were very helpful, thanks !!