I am very very curious about those who have went in via the Larch Creek EP and what they think of that area. I haven't ever considered it for whatever reason, but I think it might make sense for me when I bring my 12-year-old up next year for his first trip to the BWCA in Late July. I am planning on 3 nights so we may not even portage over to Clove Lake but if we do it reviews as being an easier Portage. That would probably be all the farther we would go in so any reviews for Larch Lake or Clove Lake would be appreciated. Thanks!!

It's a nice option. It cuts out the Pine River, which is very scenic, but also a longer paddle to ultimately arrive at Clove Lake. The creek winds a great deal, in some places to such an extent that turning the canoe requires three-point turns. The creek is also very sensitive to overall water levels, so can be very low at times.

Mike

I have gone this route several times. As mentioned, just watch water levels. When low you will have logs and other obstacles to get over in the creek which is very curvy. It will take about 45 -60 minutes to make it to Larch lake. Good campsites on Larch , several islands. Portages are pretty easy. Lakes are not too big and good for beginner paddlers. Fishing is OK, best in low light. You will see other canoeists and groups.

Love this route. It’s great if you don’t like moving water which freaks me out at portage landings. Yes, it’s a scenic route, bit scenic after clove lake, too. You can always take a day trip and paddle upstream if you want, it much current except by portages

I did Larch Creek last year in a Winona MN3, it was a tight fit with low water levels. We pulled/crossed at least 10 beaver dams, but they were not to bad since we were going downstream. We took the only campsite left open, the campsite on the Island is a beauty, the others are so so IMHO.

Larch Creek entry point is an excellent option, but as others have said, much depends on water levels. When I went with a friend in late August, 2026, the water levels were lowish but not super low, as a result, we could get from the entry point to Larch Lake without walking through muck. I mention this point because when the water levels are very very low, Larch Creek can be a chore, I have been told by a friend who experienced it, but I have not experienced it myself. My experience this year was that we could easily navigate through Larch Creek and it was beautiful. There were 7 beaver dams we had to get across, which was fun and interesting. Just take your time. We saw a baby beaver at one of them. Once through Larch Creek, we looked for a campsite on Larch Lake. There are three and all are good but the most coveted one is the island spot on the left. We lucked out and were able to claim it. An amazing spot. If it is taken, the other two spots are good, too, each in their own way. From Larch Lake as a base, you can do fun day trips to Clove Lake. the portage from Larch Lake to Clove Lake is quite easy. As your map will tell you, there is then a rather long portage to get to Pine river, but if you are not hauling your backpack and everything, just doing a day trip, it should not be a problem. The water level in late August 2026 on Pine river was low but we were able to canoe a bit on the river and get out to hike. There were bear tracks visible in the mud. Excellent fishing. A bald eagle. Incredible flowers, native plants. A paradise. A waterfall. Met two people coming the opposite direction on Pine river and they had had to do a lot of portaging but seemed to be doing fine.