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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Winter Camping and Activities :: Winter trip
 
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Captn Tony
04/13/2020 06:18PM
  
I'm thinking about a winter trip next year.
I'll probably rent a hot tent and a sleeping bag. Between summer gear and ice fishing equipment I should have everything else I need.
I'll start with a couple of questions and think of more later.
What is the best way to pack in snow shoes of cross country skis?
Looking to mainly go after lake trout with maybe going after some other species. What lakes should I be thinking about?
Thanks,


 
Jaywalker
04/15/2020 01:45PM
  
I think skis help you move faster, provided there is some sort of trail and you are packed rather light. If you are thinking of going solo and therefore have to haul the tent, stove, auger, etc. all yourself, thats going to weight a good bit for skis I think. Also, not sure how well skis would work for breaking trail for a toboggan in new snow, for going into thigh deep snow to collect fire wood, or for packing a spot for your hot tent - all those I'd much rather do on snowshoes.


Tuscarora might also be a good option for lakers. The trail from round is usually pretty well maintained, and it might make you feel a bit more remote.
 
Minnesotian
04/14/2020 08:33AM
  

Many people pack in both snowshoes and skis. They use the snowshoes for getting over the portages and the skis once they hit the flat ice.


If you are targeting lake trout, I would look at Clearwater or Duncan. One or two or even no portages in.


One thing I have learned about winter camping is that pulling a sled with too much stuff in newly fallen snow while breaking trail is one of the most physically demanding things out there. Whenever you go, make sure you look at the weather closely and change your goals accordingly if a big snowstorm is expected.