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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Listening Point - General Discussion :: 2025 Roll Call

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timatkn

01/13/2025 10:42PM

Checking in…still planning our trip for 2025

T

thegildedgopher

01/14/2025 04:02PM

I am still here.

Took our annual trip to the Canadian side of Sag this past year. Don’t have anything planned yet but hoping the RABC is re-activated.

My tripping partner (son) graduates high school this spring and will be moving on to many adventures that I know will not include old dad. It’s certainly a bittersweet time right now. So proud of his adventurous spirit but also tussling with the fact that this is HIS time to travel far and wide without me slowing him down.

QuietWaters

01/15/2025 02:08PM

Still here. No trips in 2024 or in the future, but hoping for a cabin stay in the northwoods this year. I check the board very frequently so will be looking for all your wonderful pictures and trip reports. Happy paddling to all.

MichiganMan

01/14/2025 08:35PM

nctry: "

2024 was a difficult year. "
Hang in there NCTRY. Hope this year goes better for ya.

MHS67

01/15/2025 01:11PM

noodle

01/01/2025 09:27PM

still here!

2024 had far fewer canoe trips than planned -- a family Memorial Day trip and then an early June solo were both cancelled because of an old dog on his last legs who passed on June 15th. But now we've got a new puppy who needs to learn how to behave in a canoe, and 2025 is the right time to instill those habits early. I wrote a much-belated trip report that won a monthly contest, so now I have a warm BWCA beanie to wear during the winter.

Plans for this year are another shot at the family Memorial Day trip, an early June tandem trip with a friend to loop from LIS #14, up through North and Beartrack and Pocket and down to Oyster and back west through Shell and to the same EP, and then a very simple, very lazy, very introductory trip in early August with six friends who have never been to the BWCA.

Then another family Labor Day trip, probably, and then finally getting around to thru-hiking the Kekekabic Trail with my sister in the middle of September. One might think at this point I just move up north.

boonie

01/01/2025 09:33PM

Present. Last year I had to cancel my permit (1st time ever) as physical and medical issues mounted. I did make it up and camped at a couple of campgrounds with some paddling, hiking, and exploring. No plans yet for 2025.

scottiebaldwin

01/01/2025 09:39PM

Fortunate to have worked March through August this year in China and was gone the whole time. I’ll make up for it next year when I get free starting in mid July. I’ll probably pack in three or four trips with grab-and-go permits for whatever is available between mid July and the end of August. I’m not fussy and I like to mix it up. Probably all solo trips.

northallen

01/02/2025 06:29AM

Present: knee surgery last summer; back to running by October.
Moving from MN to IA this summer, hoping for an early fall trip.
Hope all are well

marrowoflife

01/02/2025 06:51AM

Here! Lot's of time on the local rivers and a trip to the Iowa River this year. Hope to plan some bigger trips this year, at least once back to the BWCA and maybe once back to the Rio Grande.

leag

01/17/2025 10:26AM

Still here!

AdamXChicago

01/01/2025 09:31PM

Here. Hoping for a couple more trips in 2025

thebrokedown

01/01/2025 11:17PM

My father died in April; he was a long-time counselor at what used to be MOBS (Minnesota Outward Bound) and now goes by VOBS (Voyaguer Outward Bound) back in the late 70's and 80s.

I had already been planning a 2025 solo trip in honor of my husband, who died suddenly in 2021. At that time, we had been planning a 2023 trip together. It would have been our 3rd, our first trip together in the BWCA was our honeymoon, 2007. Now the trip is in honor of the man who introduced me to the Boundary Waters, and the man who I introduced.

My first solo, so I'm taking it easy and going to the area I am most familiar with. It will be a melancholy trip, and possibly my last, as I'm 56, a widow and I live in Mississippi. But although I am a southern girl, my heart belongs to Minnesota.

Outdoorsfan69

01/02/2025 06:53AM

Still here and above the grass! Throwing a few ideas together for a mid September BWCA trip. Thinking possibly going through Sawbill, as that is an area I have not been to.

ThreeRivers

01/02/2025 06:54AM

Looking to make the long drive from DC to the BWCA again this year, probably late June for a solo. Not sure where yet, but probably to the west. I better make up my mind soon as permit day is around the corner! Have a great trip(s) everyone!

Vinski

01/02/2025 07:25AM

2024 was my first trip to the BWCA with a 5 day trip out of Rockwood with a Liz/Swamp permit. I Also did a 5 day solo trip on the Lower Wisconsin Riverway.

in 2025 I plan to bring my son to the BWCA in May as a final adventure together before he is off to college, and I'm planning a second BWCA trip with friends in September.

Freeleo1

01/28/2025 09:43AM

Still here in Texas and trying to keep up with the every other year trip to BW and Quetico. The 3-day drive to and from Ely make it a difficult to do more often, but the ability to have everything mostly packed and ready to go without having to ship stoves, paddles, etc. separately make it a better option.

We have a Carp permit for June so far and are hoping the RABC program gets back on line soon. If not, we'll try for another entry point and go from there. There are still plenty of lakes in the BWCA I'd like to see and maybe June will be less busy than later on.

It's great to see everyone that still checks in from time to time. I, too, miss so many that have gone before. Let's hope the BWCA and other wilderness areas survive to keep our lives enriched. I expect many reasons to be sad about our environment in the near future, so am trying to focus on the positive and take nothing for granted.

Spartan2

01/02/2025 07:54AM

Freddy

01/02/2025 07:45AM

2024 was a bucket list year for us. Took a two week white water rafting trip in the Yukon and through British Columbia and flying out of the back country of Alaska on the Tatshenshini and Alsak rivers as well as two weeks birding in Borneo for some of the most unique birds in the world. We did some trips closer to home but had to cancel our trip to the BW which we will do this year Lord Willing!

Mapmaker

01/02/2025 08:16AM

Planning spring and fall trips, maybe a summer one as well. 2024 was a slow year as I slipped on my solo trip which laid me up quite a while and then had a round of covid in fall. Bleh!

Hopefully 2025 will be a better year for all things, including BWCA time!

jamotrade

01/02/2025 10:07AM

I'm still kickin'. Sold our cabin last year and used some of the money to buy a brand new Northstar Northwind. Great canoe!

I have enjoyed quite a bit of local paddling. Took the new craft to Pine Lake from the Trout Lake EP with my 18 year old daughter over 4th of July weekend. Did a 20 mile Namekagon River overnight with my 15 year old daughter in early September, and spent a couple of nights on Toohey Lake in the SNF in early October.

I'll probably be limited to grab-n-go permits this season but I'll find my spots!

TomT

01/02/2025 10:21AM

I did a 7 night Quetico solo last September and this year hope to hook up with a larger group for 10 nights in western Quetico early July. My favorite kind of trip is a hybrid solo. That's where part of the trip I'm alone and the other part I'm with a group of other solos and tandems.

Hoping I can take my young border collie "Cody" on his first trip also.

TuscaroraBorealis

01/06/2025 05:47PM

Still here.

inspector13

01/27/2025 04:38PM

Still checking in from time to time.

Pinetree

01/16/2025 03:47PM

MHS67: "

Tony

01/16/2025 06:34PM

Manage three trips last year. Hoping for two or three trips this year maybe looking at mudro. Picture is the beach on Gabbro lake very nice place.

Tony

bobbwca

01/16/2025 06:53PM

Checking in.

Didn't make it to the BW this year, but we did an 8-day canoe trip to Isle Royale at the end of July. No plans yet for this year, but sure something will come up.

CarolynS

01/02/2025 02:39PM

Still afloat & still getting vicarious thrills from your photos & reports.

bfurlow

01/02/2025 09:18AM

Here!

I have not made it up in a couple of years. Hoping that will change for the upcoming season. I'm overdue for a trip with my son.

Scout64

01/02/2025 09:46AM

Happy New Year! I am looking forward to 2025. I have one trip planned which is probably all I will get this year. but, I will take what I can get.

plmn

01/02/2025 10:02AM

Two trips last year and hoping for two more this year, one family and one solo. January is here already, I suppose I better start planning them.

Digger07

01/02/2025 10:19AM

Happy new year! 2024: may solo out of LIS and October trip with my brother south kawishiwi. 2025 will be another may solo and family August trip another trip in October trip.

SINCE1975

01/02/2025 10:34AM

Still here! Didn't do a trip last year but hope to get one done this year. 50 years since my 1rst trip in the bwca and have never gotten over the feeling I get when visiting this place.

arctic

01/02/2025 10:38AM

Here. 2024: Did a winter camping/trout-fishing trip in the BWCAW in March, a 10-day Quetico paddle in July (saw no one for a six day span), a fishing opener BWCAW trout trip in May, a short BWCAW trip in July, and a couple of excellent end of season BWCAW day trips catching lakers and hunting waterfowl.

2025: Hopefully similar, but plan to do a backpack trip out west instead of a Quetico paddle.

trstuck

01/02/2025 11:21AM

Still here!
Gotta get planning on the usual two summer trips; one with my daughter and another with dads/sons.

OgimaaBines

01/02/2025 10:47AM

Mii Omaa! 2024: I did a solo trip to Wine Lake in late April chasing the ice out, did my first canoe race (Solo-MN48) in June, Tripped to South Lake via Duncan in August with my wife and stepsister, paddled and camped several places along the St. Croix and Chippewa Rivers.
2025: Going to do some winter camping along the Gunflint (likely in February). Going to bring my family up to the Ely side sometime in August, likely do another canoe race.

Happy New Years Everyone!

jdevries

01/02/2025 11:44AM

Alive and well.

2024 was the same as the past few, a 2 week travel trailer trip to Fall Lake with daytrips to various EPs, local lakes, and an overnight solo. 2025 looks to be the same. With my retirement in 85 days I would love to stay longer but 2 weeks in close proximity is about all the wife can stand.

gonorth1

01/02/2025 12:13PM

2024 was a year of extremes, the heat of the desert SW was felt as we ventured down the Green R., then snow in the border country later in the year. For 2025 I'll look for the middle in Quetico or points north.

BigZig

01/02/2025 12:34PM

BigZig here.
Trip in 2024 to Wood Lake for a 4-day base camp adventure in June.
Trip planning for 2025 includes EP 33 (first time in this area south of numbered lakes).
I plan to retire in 2026 so planning possible solo trip routes now.

GraniteCliffs

01/02/2025 10:51AM

Still here. Hanging on. By my fingernails.
First solo in 1969. Still doing them every year in addition to 2-3 group trips usually to Quetico. Cardiac and Parkinsons slowed me some in 24 but have several trips slotted for 25.
Paddle on!

Wally13

01/02/2025 11:02AM

Still here .... hit the big 70 this past year. Hoping a lot of paddling years ahead.

Did a Quetico Trip to Pickerel, Rawn and Buckingham in June 2024. Windiest trip I have ever had in my 46 years of canoeing in Quetico.

Also, did a long distance EXPEDITION 20 day 516 mile canoe trip of Erie Canal to Hudson River to New York and the Statue of Liberty.

Planning on a 652 mile 3 week canoe trip of the Tennesee River from Knoxsville, TN to Paducah, KY in April 2025.

Of course I have to go to my favorite place in the world in June 2025 ... Beaverhouse entry to Cirrus and Kaskakog and Smudge.

Jackfish

01/02/2025 11:24AM

I’m here. Had a weather-shortened trip to Q last year. (Still better than no trip to Q!) This years trip is yet TBD. ‘

Ottertailvoyageur

01/02/2025 11:25AM

Two great trips in 2024 with two in planning stage for 2025!

My granddaughter went on her first trip in August and can’t wait to get back this summer. “I want to go a little further and stay a little longer grandpa”. Woo Hoo!

KawnipiKid

01/02/2025 12:50PM

Present, alive and well and enjoying the insight and advice of my fellow paddlers on the messageboards here! Likely only one trip in 2025; early fall to the Q or the BW to be determined before permit day. Cheers, everyone, and take care.

WinoDave

01/02/2025 01:26PM

It was a good year for me in the Boundary Waters! I made four trips...

1. In May I went in at Mudro on a solo trip cut short by bad weather, I just didn't want to sit alone in a tent with my dog in driving rain for 3 days. The original plan was to do the loop up through Horse to Basswood Falls, across Crooked Lake, and back south again and out Mudro. It was a bummer to cut it short, but it would have been miserable and that loop would have been impossible to do in my timeframe with that weather.

2. In July I went in with my wife and two friends at Lizz Lake for a short 3 nighter. It was a super relaxing trip. We didn't push it too hard and enjoyed a lot of time hanging out on Gaskin and taking a fun day trip into Winchell.

3. In September I went in solo again with my dog to make up for my aborted spring trip. We put in at the Missing Link Lake EP on a very last minute permit that I got the day before, did the monster portage into Tuscarora and did a big four day loop west into Little Sag and Gabimichigami and out the northern route through Brant Lake over the course of five days. I saw very few people on this large loop and the weather was ideal. I had avoided this area for years because so much of that area was burned in the Ham Lake Fire in 2007, but this has quickly become a new favorite area of the BWCA and I look forward to going back. It was so interesting to see the forest coming back in its various stages. The area also has some of the most stunning cliff faces and views I have experienced in all of the Boundary Waters. The nice part of this route is that it allowed for a lot of loop options, so I was able to base my route on the conditions and how I felt every day.

4. I was able to take an amazing trip in October with five great guys. It was windy, cold, damp, and there was fire ban. If I was alone this would have been miserable, but as a group we made the best of it and had a blast. The original plan was to enter at Snowbank, go northeast through Knife into Kebekebic and loop back southwest and out Snowbank. The heavy winds the entire trip caused us to shorten our loop, but reading maps and wind to time and reroute our travel plan on the fly made for a great adventure. Much like my September trip, the area had a lot of room for improvisation that allowed us to adapt to the conditions. We also and a first timer on this trip, which is always fun. He had a blast.

Turning the calendar always means planning for the coming year. I am going to try that Mudro loop again this year on my annual May solo trip, I'm hoping for a longer week+ trip this summer, and we will do another big guys trip in October. I am looking at some far western BWCA options, such as Little Indian Sioux River EP. I am always looking for route ideas if anyone has suggestions!

eagleriverwalleye

01/02/2025 03:00PM

2024 Q trip with a buddy where we entered at Nym/Batch and worked our way down to Sturgeon where a bad shoulder got worse in the wind and waves on that great lake. Returned via Lonely/Walter/Elizabeth for roughly a 70mi loop. Currently recovering from shoulder surgery but should be good and ready for a 2025 return to Q by June. Bill N.

unshavenman

01/02/2025 03:31PM

2024 was great, with one trip being a week long Quetico loop from PP through the S chain to Agnes and back down through Sunday lake, and the second trip doing a shorter BWCA loop through the small lakes around the Numbers chain to Insula.
For 2025 with the RABC in limbo we are going to drive up to Atikokan in June and do a week long loop starting from Beaverhouse Lake.

Kiporby

01/02/2025 03:42PM

Still here all these years.

2024? Explored the northern part of the Quetico with Paulie (aka Suncatcher) out of Nym Lake with the highlight finding the pictos up Montgomery Creek.

2025? Winter trip to Daniels late January

May / June: first ever trip to Wabakimi for 2 weeks.

mnsportsmanjr

01/02/2025 05:20PM

2024 shall never be talked about.

2025 is going to be great as we are planning our first family trip to BWCA with the family (wife, daughter and son). Spent the past 9 months (as of today) planning for an end of May, beginning of June trip. We are more than excited and hope to get our planned permit date!

Also a huge thank you to everyone who has posted their opinions, trip reports, hints, tips and everything on here. Without this BWCA family I don't think I would have been able to plan as efficiently and effectively as I have. THANK YOU.

LindenTree

01/02/2025 06:26PM

Lindentree is still here. Pic of us cutting trees off the 2 mile Portage by Rose Lake last June.

JohnGalt

01/02/2025 05:34PM

2024 was ‘a trip’ haha.
Another great year in/about the BWCA.
November & December brought some twists - I stumbled into starting a business & have a property closing scheduled for next week.
It seems my sabbatical as a wilderness dwelling vagabond is coming to an abrupt conclusion & the new year will see the start of a new adventure, once more full of excitement, uncertainty, & potential.
Hope you all had a blessed year & that you have a prosperous 2025.
Cheers!

chessie

01/02/2025 07:07PM

Still afloat. Not sure where yet, but definitely need a BW trip this summer!

BeaV

01/03/2025 02:48PM

BeaV here !

Best trip of 2024 was the Border Route Challenge from International Falls to Lake Superior. Most relaxing trip?...all the others. Planning for the same in 2025.

Speckled

01/03/2025 03:41PM

2024
New Job, Kid off to College, College Swim Meets, Bought another canoe, BW trips, Brook Trout Fishing, Grouse Hunting, Agate Picking, Whiskey, Cigars, Hiking, Snowboarding

2025
Alot more of the same, minus sending a kid off to college for the first time and minus a new job.

ghamer

01/03/2025 02:08PM

I'm still here. Made 2 trips in 2024. Late May trip to Boulder Bay of Lac la Croix and Sept/ Oct trip to the Malberg area.
Looking forward to 2025 trips but no firm plans yet.

Jeriatric

01/03/2025 04:55PM

Spartan2: "

mr.barley

01/03/2025 08:21PM

I'm still here. Last year's trip was a late September trip to Seagull. We're looking at a moose river north trip in June if we can get our permit. Probably do another late September Seagull trip again this fall. It's kind of becoming an annual thing.

bwcadan

01/05/2025 09:24PM

Still here. No trips yet planned. Am hoping son and two grand daughters can go this year.

Mbroman

01/06/2025 09:03AM

I plan to try Quetico this year in late May or early June
With my adult son.
Canoed and fished around the moose lake area in the past. Last year had the best fishing days in the wind Lk since coming to the BWCA.
The aim is 4 days of fishing and canoeing with ample viewing of wildlife and waterfalls would be our priority.
With few days to be in Quetico the ability to venture north would be limited. Any suggestions on lakes or points of interest anyone recommend?
Thanks for any suggestions.

andym

01/08/2025 12:32AM

Here. What this year will bring is still unknown.

MichiganMan

01/09/2025 07:23PM

Wonder Monkey- Hey this is good! You clearly needed to vent. The value of a good partner/friend for trips is way underrated. I can totally empathize with your situation. I took one of my best friends on a trip once and he did nothing but complain the entire trip. We're still good friends. We fish together and hang out a lot, but I've never invited him to go on another paddle portage trip.

And no, you don't sound like a pushy bastard! On our trips we make consensus decisions and I really value the opinions of my partners, and they value mine. Expecting your partner to contribute at least something is not too much. Hopefully you can find some better people to go with.

airmorse

01/10/2025 08:00AM

Still here. Looking back at 2024 I found it was a very good year.
Did a group trip with Natureboy12 and his son. Then a Solo in August. Wrote my first TR about my solo.
Went to the Grand Canyon.
Did some hiking in the Medicine Bow Range in Wyoming.
Got a nice buck opening day in Wisconsin.
Still have my health.

2025 planning another group trip with Natureboy then a solo in August.

Very Blessed.

TuscaroraBorealis

01/10/2025 10:45PM

Pinetree: "Still live and kicking-great group of people, but miss many of the old timers that had so much knowledge and history of the BWCA . Some have moved to paddling in the big water in the sky and as we get older some drift away from this forum and have other
expeditions to complete. "

Perhaps a paddle down memory lane is in order??? Circa 2012.

OneMatch

01/11/2025 10:50AM

OneMatch reporting for duty, sir!

sns

01/01/2025 12:57PM

Planning two Quetico trips and one Wabakimi. One trip will be another solo.

Edit to add: did two Quetico trips and a Solo to WCPP in '24.

Happy New Year, all!

MiPatrick

02/01/2025 12:48PM

2024 Got back to canoe camping after a few years. Wife and I took our boys out for their first canoe camping trip with a 4 day trip to sylvania. Rained 2.5 of those days, but the boys had a blast.

2025. Early summer trip to sylvania with my dad, wife and kids. They’re telling me they’re both ready to be bow paddlers, so we’ll see. Then Wife and I are taking boys to the BW in August for their first trip

Bearpath9

01/18/2025 11:07AM

Managed to sweet talk my wife, and have a short trip planned. In return, I have to spend 10 days in St. Thomas. Call it a draw.

bojibob

01/18/2025 03:26PM

Still alive and miss the hell out Planning and Tripping.......

Hope you all are well...

Pinetree

01/10/2025 01:24PM

I just wonder who gets the honor of being the oldest paddler-almost 76 years young here.

Pinetree

01/10/2025 01:18PM

Still live and kicking-great group of people, but miss many of the old timers that had so much knowledge and history of the BWCA . Some have moved to paddling in the big water in the sky and as we get older some drift away from this forum and have other
expeditions to complete.

yogi59weedr

01/07/2025 06:23PM

Yogi here...still doing my boat thing in June up around Ely
Always stay at different places..Gonna start experimenting with trips to lake Erie and Maumee river...

520eek

01/16/2025 07:33PM

Checking in, still here.

MHS67

01/16/2025 10:17PM

Pinetree: "MHS67: "

Still hanging around. 2017 was my last BW canoe trip. Something always seems to get in the way of a trip back there! Hopefully this year I will make it. Still paddling on the local lakes.

Jeriatric, every time I paddle on Mammoth Pool, I think of seeing you there.

nctry, Ben hope this year goes better for you. Remember there's always that nice waitress in Fresno!! "
Hope you're safe from the fires out there and I know once, maybe still do in the firefighting business."
We are quite a ways north of southern Calif. Just south of Yosemite. Here this time of the year our grass is turning green and we are out of fire season.
Correct, I worked for Cal Fire for 28 years. Retired in 2000 and started teaching
Wildland Firefighting. I did that for 16 years. I still have my type 3 fire engine here on the ranch. But I don't hire it out anymore like I used to. Some how at age 76 the darn hills are allot steeper!! Pinetree you have a very good memory!
Larry

BryceZionReef

01/17/2025 08:03PM

Headed to BWCA for first time this summer with my two sons, who both have been there on a scout trip. I've been to Birch Lake in Babbitt a few times in early June, but doing a mid August trip this year so hope the fishing is decent.

We're not looking to set any paddling records, more likely to base camp on Saganaka or maybe Ogish.

lindylair

01/18/2025 04:12PM

Entering my 70th year as of today and doing okay. Retired in October, took a couple months off and got a part time job working 3 days a week, about 18 hours. So far I have ben managing to keep busy and it's the middle of winter and I don't watch TV.

Took one BW trip last year and hoping for at least one this year as well but no specific plans yet. This might be the first year in many years that I have not had a BWCA reservation in hand by 9:02am on permit day, but that's ok. But I guess there is still time for that to change...:)

The last few years have found me doing a lot of solo car camping trips in pretty remote locations which while not exactly the same, still provides the exposure I need to nature and the northwoods. A lot easier to plan and just go and I have had some great experiences doing it.

Although posting less than I used to I am still on here everyday reading, learning and enjoying the experiences of this great community.

See you in the woods!

TuscaroraBorealis

01/18/2025 11:29PM

bojibob: "Still alive and miss the hell out Planning and Tripping.......

Hope you all are well..."
Glad you checked in & hope you are doing well too.

QueticoMike

01/02/2025 09:43AM

Still here and still fishin’ !
Happy New Year!

wxce1260

01/01/2025 04:55PM

Here!

2024: 5 BWCA Trips. Ice out solo out of Lake One and a July trip out of Mudro. Also got in 3 BWCA trips in the tandem boat out of Kawishiwi River, Kawishiwi Lake, and Sagagana in July, August and September respectively.

Also did 1 tandem to Chippewa Flowage in May, 1 tandem down the St. Croix River in June, 1 solo on the Mississippi in October. 30 days total canoe camping.

2025: Planning 1 down the Namekagen and 4 or 5 trips to the BWCA. Also doing an Isle Royale solo hike for my 60th birthday. a couple less days camping this year since I have a kid getting married in the middle of the summer.

First order of business in 2025 is to finish restoring a 56 year old Grumman tin can before Canoecopia rolls around.

adam

01/01/2025 11:24AM

Join in the 2025 roll call. Let us know what you were up to in 2024 and planning for 2025!

ducks

01/01/2025 01:07PM

In 2024 I did an April solo to Lake One, June hiking with big duckling, family cabin stays at Rockwood, East Bearskin Camper Cabin, and Nelson’s Travelers Rest, and in August I took little bear (5) to South Kawishiwi River on his first bwca trip.

In 2025 I’m hoping for another early ice out solo trip, HS graduation trip with little duckling to Smoke from Sawbill ( she wants to repeat her favorite trip she did with me 10 years ago)
on June 1, Little bear’s 2nd annual trip is planned for Baker to Kelly or Jack in July or August, and our annual cabin stays at Rockwood in August and Nelson’s Travelers Rest in October.

bhouse46

01/01/2025 06:06PM

Some choppy waters starting with heart rhythm problems that changed a Fall 22 trip into base camping at Sawbill followed by a year of patience with the health care system. They finally did what was discussed at our first meeting and problem solved. At least for awhile. I missed most paddling in 23 and no trips. Got on the water and was feeling good spring of 24 and my gunnel broke dropping the seat in my Magic. Off to repair and carpal tunnel in both hands and another lost summer. I was able to hike and enjoyed two trips in Colorado. Tired of being wind bound and looking forward to warm weather and paddling. Most of my trips are short notice and dependent upon permit availability, but unless another storm hits looking forward to 25.

Lightfoot

01/01/2025 08:19PM

Still hanging in there.
2024 we completed our 37th annual trip. Due to some health issues 2 of our crew members had to deal with throughout the summer we ended up getting to Cross Bay Lake and then cutting the trip shorter than originally planned.

2025 trip is all planned, just waiting to make the reservations.

Since we've aged, we all bring chairs now as can be seen in our group photo.

TrailZen

01/01/2025 01:32PM

Present! Our 2024 paddling included 10 days in Quetico, 4 days in Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, and a couple paddling days in the Everglades. Our 2025 plans include another 10-day Quetico trip, visits to Great Dismal Swamp & Merchants Millpond, and paddling an aqueduct in Llangollen, North Wales.

Happy New Year, everyone!

TZ

CoreyL

01/01/2025 11:53PM

As of January 1st, 2025 (possibly into the morning of January 2nd), my brother, my mom, and I are planning to take the Clearwater Loop for the 2025 season. It’s a 45-50 mile route, and we’re opting for the longer version. While the loop could be completed in about 4 days, we’re planning for a 7-day trip to really take our time and soak it all in.

For the 2024 season, I went with my uncle (who introduced my brother and me to the BWCA) on a trip from Sawbill Lake to Alton Lake. We spent 5 days out there and had a great time. On our first night at the Sawbill campgrounds, we even saw a black bear!

Me: age 16
Brother: age 15
Mother: age 57
Uncle: age 63

dogwoodgirl

01/01/2025 10:14PM

I'm still kicking!

Only got one BWCA trip in last year and a short overnight closer to home. I've got a 2 week trip planned with my son for 2025, finally going to do the Beartrap River in a big loop out of Mudro.

Lots of artistic and poetry stuff going on in my life right now. Hoping my god-daughter and her son can make it up from KS for a short canoe trip too.

deerfoot

01/01/2025 06:37PM

Two Canadian trips to Crown Land in the greater Wabakimi area last Year (June and August). A four day trip to the western UP in October.

This coming year I am hoping for a two week trip to Manitoba as well as spring and fall trips to the UP. At age 77 I need to get in every trip I can - hoping to be able to continue to age 80.

portagerunner

01/01/2025 08:14PM

Here and ready for another great year!

Was spoiled in 2024 with 5 trips into the BW and a few NP trips. Memorial weekend with the kiddos out of Sawbill. June week out of Kawishiwi up to Malberg and Fishdance. August week through the Moose River north to loop through LLC. Late September long weekend on Seagull and some December snowshoeing to the Hegman pictographs. We also did some paddling in Biscayne NP and two weeks of hiking in Glacier.

2025 plans so far include another memorial weekend trip with my boys and a late summer trip with my annual group out of Sag. Hopefully another impromptu trip or two will find their way onto the calendar.

Happy and safe travels all.

straighthairedcurly

01/01/2025 08:41PM

Still here. While my focus was a little more on canoe ultra marathons, I did get out for a 9 day trip with my husband and son. Better than "I love you" is hearing my son ask, "Mom, are we doing a family BW trip this summer?" By the time we settled on a date that worked for everyone, we could only get a Moose Lake entry, but still had time to travel to some of favorite interior areas.

Next summer, hoping to fit in a family trip (TBD) and a trip with a past camper of mine (July) before doing the Voyageur Border Route Challenge in September.

MichiganMan

01/02/2025 10:05PM

MichiganMan present and accounted for! Had a great Quetico trip in June 2024. We went in at Nym, clobbered the smallies in the Pickerel narrows, then went through Pickerel to Buckingham for several nights, then two nights on Rawn and the final night on Little Batchewaung. I think we were on Rawn the same time as Wally13.
Planning another Quetico trip for June 2025 and can't wait!

Pic is a Buckingham walleye from 2024. Love seeing everyone in this thread!

BlackFly

01/22/2025 08:30AM

I’m also planning a solo trip to Wabakimi in 2025. Never been there, looking for some route information. I have the planning map and ordered a guidebook, but value input from humans with experience. Not getting any younger, and don’t want to over-commit on portages, whitewater. Sitting here feeling very out of shape.

I did a BWCA trip for the first time in 4 years in 2024. Very disappointed in the amusement park atmosphere, competition for campsites. Wind was horrendous for 5 straight days, and I should have delayed my entry date, but given the demand, current permitting protocol prohibits that. I think industrial tourism is ruining the experience, especially in the more scenic areas, and for those who can’t travel fast and far.

soundguy0918

01/22/2025 01:19PM

Returning for another September trip out of Fall Lake. We had such glorious weather last year, I'm thinking we are due for some rain...but who knows.

bobbilly22

01/03/2025 12:43PM

I'm here
Did a trip in August of 24
Possibly doing another August this year

mmarksnp

01/03/2025 06:57AM

Holry and Happy New Year!
Last year I did a solo with Maisie the wonder dog. Came out, drove to Duluth to pick up my paddling buddy of 50 years and we went back in the next day for a great trip to the cloud lakes. Every year we try to include an epic portage and this trip we did Otter Track to Gijikiki and then out to the south. Planning only one trip this year in July for a week. Think a partial BWCA and Quetico. Better decide soon, huh?

HighnDry

01/03/2025 08:33AM

I think I was on Rawn at the same time you were, Jackfish. Those were some cold temps and lots of near horizontal, blowing rain!

MikeinMpls

01/03/2025 09:32AM

Getting older. Portaging is a bit tougher, getting out of the tent is a bit more difficult, but doing our best. Two trips planned, assuming we get the permits: East Bearskin the week before Memorial Day, and I'll try to do a solo in July or August.

Mike

CabSauv

01/03/2025 10:01AM

Still here and still paddling! We did one trip last year and hope to do the same in 2025

Fishman53

01/03/2025 09:04AM

Here from Oklahoma. We made one BWCA trip first week of June and enjoyed some nice Lake Trout and Walleye. Day trip down James River in Missouri for a few smallmouth. Two night trip down Red River (OK/TX) for some catfish. Several over night trips on area lakes.

2025 plan is to again attack the Lake Trout with a BWCA trip in late May/early June. Hoping that water levels and available time align for a trip down the Buffalo River in Arkansas. We will resume our trip down the Red River with ultimate goal of completing a journey from Hwy 79 bridge to Lake Texhoma - a trip that started, but was never completed with my dad many moons ago.

Safe travels and tripping!!

justpaddlin

01/03/2025 11:37AM

Had more than my fair share of time on the water in 2024 and feel lucky for that. My big change was our new adopted dog Gracie. It took six full months to get her over her fear of men and finally try canoeing. It turns out she has a natural affinity :) and quickly learned to expect to paddle every day.

My main goal for 2025 is same as always. Justpaddlin. 2025 progress report below.

Best wishes to all

Michwall2

01/04/2025 08:17AM

In 2024 we did 2 trips-

Aug - Entered Fall Lake and went up to Basswood Falls/Little BW Falls and the out through Horse River to Mudro.

Sept. - Entered North Foul Lake. Went west to Mountain Lake and made the turn back east on Clearwater and out the Pike Lakes to John Lake.

August trip was 3 generations. All the routes were new to us.

2025 is still unknown. Too many variables.

Spartan2

01/04/2025 05:35AM

Jeriatric: "Spartan2: "

The Spartans are here. 2024 was an eventful year for us. We spent our annual cabin week in June at Rockford Lodge Cabin 4 with our granddaughter. Then in July/August we did a wonderful trip in Europe. Three days in London followed by two back-to-back cruises: ten days in the Baltic Sea countries, and finally ten more days in Norway. The photo was taken at North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe, looking out over the Barents Sea towards the North Pole.
"
Spartan2: We had someone take our photo at the same spot. I seems that you might have been there for the northern lights. Did you see them?

I still check in to the messageboard occasionally. I sold one canoe and gave the other one to my son-in-law and grandson. I still take my dog on mushroom hunts but I am getting older."

Hi Jeriatric—no, no northern lights. Our trip was in July and early August, and in the time of the midnight sun, not the northern lights. I would have loved to see that up there, but we did enjoy so many sights in Norway that I can’t feel that I missed out too much. When were you there?

EmmaMorgan

01/04/2025 01:15PM

Happy New Year everyone! 2024 was a great year with a 2+ week solo in Quetico in August, a 6-day trip with a friend in June and four shorter 3-4 night solo trips in May, July, September and October, training my second dog to be a great canoe trip dog and mastering the art of walking two dogs on leash while portaging. In 2025, my friend and I are planning a 9-day trip in Quetico from Prairie Portage in June if Canada starts issuing RABCs again (or a substitute trip in the BWCA if not). In July, I'm planning another 2+ week solo in Quetico with both of my dogs, entering through Beaverhouse. And in September, I'm hoping to do the Border Route Challenge (solo, without dogs).

schweady

01/04/2025 11:34AM

Checking in after a long absence here. There was no overnight BW trip in 2024... The September trip was replaced by 3 weeks in Italy. Have to admit, it was a pretty decent tradeoff. Our July trip in through Mudro was also washed out - literally - by closed roads. So, we did a camper cabin at Bear Head Lake with a day trip to revisit the N Hegman pictographs and have dinner at Insula. The church men's trips also seem to have come to an end. Deaths, medical issues, aging out, and a "been there, done that" vibe from some of the group members. Plus, a growing reluctance on my part for planning any more large group outings... I'm hoping to rebook a Mudro or do a Moose River N trip in 2025 - just for my wife and me. A solid appreciation for fall trips and ultra-small groups, for sure.

CabinAfter

01/04/2025 12:50PM

Took 2 trips + 2 short trips in 2024. We added a new puppy to our crew. I'm grateful to be healthy and able to travel to the Boundary Waters. Need it now more than ever!

DMan5501

01/04/2025 01:21PM

Hey All!

RW here in AZ planning my May migration back to Duluth and pondering trips in 2025!

4 Total trips in 2024... 3 solos and 1 group.. On the first solo endured the torrential storm in June on Allen Lake.. Had to utilize my full Gore-Tex gear and stand on a rock peninsula in the down pour to avoid the falling trees...

Shooting for 5 solos in the new year.. gosh I love retirement..

RW

Bannock

01/04/2025 08:27PM

Here. No BW trips in 2024, though a few WI trips. No plans for 2025.

Jeriatric

01/04/2025 02:28PM

Spartan2: "Jeriatric: "Spartan2: "

CanoeViking

01/04/2025 03:16PM

Present and planning a fun 2025 paddle season.

I was able to take two trips this year, one with a group similar to Boy Scouts and got to have my first experience of calling in for a rescue. One of our group broke his foot and we had already crossed some of the most severe portages I had ever seen.

The next trip I was initially bummed because we didn’t go anywhere close to as far as I wanted to go in, but we were able as Providence would have it one of our group spotted the lost dog on the Gun Flint Trail, and tip off Jaywalker to go find it. This is also the first trip for my nine month old daughter, which was fun.

This year, hoping to do the same two trips one in the spring and fall hopefully both of them will be a little longer this year.

DeanL

01/04/2025 04:09PM

Still here although not as frequently as I'd like. We missed taking at least 1 trip for the first time in 20 years last summer and this summer isn't looking much better unfortunately. Best wishes to everyone this summer!

Orion52

01/04/2025 09:39PM

Still here

WhiteWolf

01/05/2025 02:05AM

Still dreaming

pastorjsackett

01/04/2025 09:32PM

Here! We did our annual fishing trip to Crooked through Mudro in early June. What a blast.

After that I led two youth group trips through church as we started up a fun outdoor ministry. Trip one was in June on Lake one and trip two was in August, Duncan to Rose Lake. Most of the youth had never been out there, so it was super rewarding.

We will go back to Crooked this year and I'll lead one youth trip because we're expecting grandchild #1 in late June. Life is good.

x2jmorris

01/05/2025 08:48AM

I'm here. got back into the swing of things last year and this year I will bring my kids and father again on a trip and maybe even a couple more if I find the time

Aslowhand

01/05/2025 02:32AM

2024: Visited Quetico for 6 weeks. Challenging weather in spring. Ran into Wally13 and friends and had a memorable evening at a nice island camp on Pickerel Lake.
2025: Another spring trip in Wabakimi is planned. Hope to sneak away from work for 4 to 5 weeks.

BonzSF

01/04/2025 09:42PM

I'm still here! Had a busy year but certainly got my annual 10 day escape in there.
did a (Very) leisurely Quetico trip up through Sunday to Agnes and back down the S chain in late August. Ran into some INTENSE winds on the last two days from Burke to PP, Wow, not fun.
24 was fun. Trying to get back in the old grove, BC. (Before Children)
Feb trip to CO for a weekend snowboard with my youngest.
March was a long weekend in Yosemite with the Dogwood trees in full bloom.
May,I took 10 days for a Dual sport motorcycle camping tour of Utah. From St George to Moab with a quick outing on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands NP. 1000 miles, half highway, interstate/ half dirt fireroads and jeep trails. Good fishing as the lakes had been stocked for the upcoming Memorial day weekend.
A month to get some work done.
July, spent a week with the annual family campout in the Redwoods.
August, HELLO ELY! see above. I'll get the Trip Report done (started) soon.
Sept. Four days after getting off the plane from MN, I get on another for a flight to London, England. A trip with my wife and her brother for a trip we've had on the list for MANY years. 2.5 weeks in a rented apartment, one block from Sloane Square . We had a GREAT time and still managed an average of 7.5 miles a day of walking.
Oct was back to CO for our son's final Parents and Family Week-end. Had a blast and actually got to the game. We ended up sort of sneaking in as security was tighter than the ticket takers. The downside is that I had to cheer for the Rams!
Back hone to Halloween/Thanksgiving/Christmas blur and here we are!
25 is College graduation in May. Maybe a off road motorcycle trip to Oregon Washington Cascades in June
July camping in the redwoods.
August BW or the Q? Don't have any plans yet. My paddling partner/ co-trip leader had a serious health issue two weeks after returning last year. I'm not sure what his status will be so it will be a later decision. Or I'll come on my own and rent a solo boat. I REALLY want to keep my streak going.
Somewhere will also be a two week trip with my wife. You know; hotels restaurants, Theaters, Uber, civilization. We're thinking Boston or maybe Fall colors type.
No, I'm not retired yet. but I can sure see the finish line!
Cheers to All for a great '25
Bonz

Traveler

01/05/2025 09:09AM

Still enjoying bwca.com thanks to all of you. One road trip up the north shore in 2024 and then a new hip. I turn 70 this spring but I am hoping to get back up north this summer. Blessings, Dave

preacherdave

01/05/2025 10:57AM

WhiteWolf: "

Yikes! Great fish!
Still dreaming"

burrow1

01/05/2025 10:40AM

2024 was year of new beginnings. My wife retired on January 1 and I retired April 1 although my employer has me on speed dial for consulting guess 45 years of experience still has value. (Pay’s really well with no stress or deadlines)

Visited 7 national parks this fall on a 6 week trip

Also had the wettest BWCA trip ever in June. Didn’t go 24 hours without rain for 10 days. No equipment failures but did have some sketchy padding.

Stay safe and keep the wet side to the outside.

Dean Burrow

Zulu

01/05/2025 12:25PM

I hope everyone has a great healthy happy 2025!

I was fortunate to be able to go on many adventures in 2024!
Spent half the Winter camping in Arizona and Utah. Climbed Flatiron near Apache Junction.
Saw The Total Solar Eclipse with my brother at a HipCamp in the Green Mountains of Vermont.
Backpacked to Havasu Creek Campground in The Grand Canyon for 4 nights.
Spent the summer camping in Colorado and backpacked into The Elk Mountains.
Unexpectedly got a 4 year old Beagle in August. Took him camping to Temperance River.
2025 plans include sitting on the couch watching YouTube trying to figure out some dog friendly trips maybe even BWCA!

Z4K

01/05/2025 02:10PM

Happy New Year everybody! Great to hear so many people are doing well!

I was fortunate enough to visit the BWCA three times this year, Kawishiwi in July, E Bearskin for Labor Day and then Saganaga in October. I was also fortunate enough to spend a long weekend solo in the Apostle Islands. I had a wonderful time everywhere I went. The most notable events were 3 spectacular aurora displays and my father's brookie PR. Other than the Apostles, my trips this year were very basecampy and left me craving more miles. I won't get that in July with the fam but hopefully I can get a break from work later in the summer for another longer solo trip. There's also talk of the family trip moving to later in the year, but I don't have anything set in stone yet... Lots to figure out this month!

Happy paddling!
Zac

mgraber

01/05/2025 11:25PM

Still kicking. Got to spend 30 days in Quetico last year, and we are planning to do a 40 day trip this summer to celebrate my wife's retirement, if my deteriorating back will hold up.

papalambeau

01/06/2025 11:20AM

We had a great 2024 trip to the BW in June with a max group of 9 in four canoes. This year we will have 8 in three canoes again in June. The grandsons are getting to be quite the voyageurs and do a great job on the water and in camp.
Blessings and safety to all!

Voyager

01/05/2025 07:18PM

Voyager here. Only 1 Bdub trip in " 24", the Voyageur's Border Challenge. Did a lot of short races here in Mich. (someone's got to be last) Completed the Suwanee R. 230 and the Ausable R. 120 ( the Friday race, not the big one on Saturday) Starting to feel my age, 77 in 2 mos. Planning on doing the Border Challenge Tour this year. Tentatively from Kabetogama to Little John L. Happy New Year friends.

ChiTrader

01/06/2025 01:30PM

Still a member here and paddling once a year. My 2024 solo trip was fantastic. Cross Bay Lake EP down to Long Island Lake (a new favorite). Base camped for several days, day trip to Cherokee and Town. Spent my last night on Snipe, then out through Missing Link and Round.

May have been the best trip I've ever done. I won't bore you with the details, but it was such an oustanding trip that I wrote an article about it for the BWJ. Stu Osthoff bought it and said he'll publish it sometime this year.

I have the luxury of pulling a permit at the last minute (i.e.; days or a few weeks before the EP date), so I'll troll the reservation website starting in late July or August for late-season trips. September's always been my preferred month. I'd love to take a trip out of the Mudro EP before I retire my paddle. The southern part of the BWCA has some interesting looking trips too. We shall see.

I'm 69 this month and still hoping to do solos until I'm at least 70. Longer if my knees and back hold up. Good luck, good health, and good fishing to all who'll visit canoe country this year.

naturboy12

01/06/2025 03:24PM

Managed to get to the BW twice in 2024, once with my 16 (now 17 ) year old son and a friend as well as a September solo. Took my first multi-day backpacking trip (Porcupine Mountains) since I was a teen as well. All in all a good year for sure.

1 BW group trip for 2025 currently in planning mode along with a 10-12 day tour of the Pacific Northwest sometime near the 4th of July. Vacation time may not allow it, but I'm trying to squeeze in a short backpack or paddling trip elsewhere as well. We'll see...

BEARnMOOSE

01/06/2025 10:12PM

We are here! For our 4th ever bwca trip we went in at bower trout and made our way back to rockwood via Brule, long Island, and banadad. We then did 3 short to very short trips to try out some different boats. A day trip to the N hegman pictographs in a MN2. An overnighter on moose river south to big moose in a Champlain. A 3 night kawishiwi triangle and grabo tour in the Boreas.

For 2025 we are planning for a loop further up the gunflint and agreed to a our first ever trip with other people than just the two of us. Aunt wants to see Johnson falls and couldn't get anyone to go with last year so we agreed to go. Should be fun!

Edit: I want a Boreas. Slight concern that it felt like it pushed more water in the front than a NW17. But still want it in all black.

Ausable

01/07/2025 09:38AM

I plan to return to the BWCA in 2025 with a friend or two. I was unable to see canoe country the past two years so I am really looking forward to this summer!

grizzlyadams

01/08/2025 09:45AM

Still here! Hoping to make a trip up the Stuart River this year. Had that planned for last year but had to change our trip to Knife Lake due to some scheduling issues with our group.

WonderMonkey

01/08/2025 03:25PM

I did one Quetico trip in 2024; it was the least fun trip I've taken. I have a fly-in fishing trip scheduled for 2025 and won't be taking an extended canoe trip until 2026.

WonderMonkey

01/08/2025 10:11PM

EDIT: Removing Content

BWCA

01/08/2025 06:58PM

WonderMonkey: "I did one Quetico trip in 2024; it was the least fun trip I've taken. I have a fly-in fishing trip scheduled for 2025 and won't be taking an extended canoe trip until 2026."

Every trip to the BWCA/Quetico is this:

___ % Heaven

____% Hell

You fill in the percentage when you get home. There are no guarantees with adventure.

MichiganMan

01/08/2025 08:27PM

WonderMonkey: "I did one Quetico trip in 2024; it was the least fun trip I've taken. I have a fly-in fishing trip scheduled for 2025 and won't be taking an extended canoe trip until 2026."
Wonder Monkey- What made the trip not fun, if you don't mind me asking?

JimmyJustice

01/12/2025 04:35PM

Present. A stroke kept me out of the BWCA in 2024, but not 2025. Let's Go!

nctry

01/12/2025 09:48PM

2024 was a difficult year. My shoulder didn’t have much holding it together and needed surgery. And so April fools day they worked on my humerus. Days before, I'd gotten a zero gravity chair and, while testing it out, Kira decided it was like my recliner at home. She jumped up like she’d do and it came crashing down and shattered her knee. In doing it was made known her knee shattered because of a tumor. In May they removed her leg which gave her a summer before the cancer spread and mid-August I had to her put down. I felt pretty bad for a long time and just now starting to accept I did the right thing.

Got to meet up with Adam and his kids in Tucson during that time also. On my way home after seeing kids in Utah and doing my PT for my shoulder there, I had a radiator hose blow in my face on the road and earned a forty mile ambulance ride. Luckily there was a lady there that I got to guide me to my camper door where I went in and flushed my eyes, neck and chest. It was a painful ordeal but I miraculously came out of it ok. The doctors couldn’t believe I didn’t lose at least one eye. But the flushing seemed to help. I basically couldn’t see for a few hours.

I finished my PT in MN at home. And spent time with kids and grandkids. Had our maybe tenth annual Fourth of July wing night at my place. Mark had a beautiful fireworks display. Tony came up and chased deer with me and back to Arizona I went… great to see new faces and names on the roll call and a big thanks to the trip reports and messages you all post.

Kinda younger to be quitting the paddling. But my hands are not so good. In 2025 I’m not exactly sure how it’ll turn out. I heard being semi-retired was cool… so I drove semi in the sugar beet harvest. I may try that again.

I pray this is a good year for everyone… and God willing we can enjoy some campfires together this year.

LesliesDad

01/13/2025 07:09AM

August 2024 - We took our two oldest grandsons on their first ever BWCA canoe trip, EP-30. Five days of wind and rain. As you can see from the photo, they were thrilled to be there.

JimEb

01/15/2025 10:49AM

I hit the usual canoe places of northern WI on the regular.

Got out about twelve nights last year to Turtle Flambeau in spring, Bittersweet in summer and Day Lake in fall.

Kind of getting bored with the same places every year so I’m planning to do my first BWCA trip this June. Reason I haven’t gone before is the seven hour drive and I have no one to go with. Neither of those things have changed except I’m very experienced soloing now having done it almost exclusively the last couple years.

ZIMTLSA

01/15/2025 06:41PM

Still wetting a paddle but no BW trip plans. Many day trips and one overnight for 2024. Never enough time on the water. Safe paddling to everyone.

Jefflynn06

01/15/2025 06:13AM

Checking in for 2025!

2024 - one trip into Horseshoe for 4 days with my wife. Secluded, saw moose, had decent weather, and simply enjoyed the trip.

2025 - planning to take my buddy on his first BWCA trip in July. His daughter came with a student group (twice) my wife and I led into the BW many years ago and his wife had been in the BW a long time ago too. He has never been and we've talked about a guys trip for several years. Going to make it happen this summer. Looking forward to it!

Northwoodsman

01/01/2025 02:46PM

I'm here. I don't have any trips planned but plan on "virtual tripping" by reading the trip reports posted.

Canoe42

01/01/2025 05:09PM

Canoe42 here. 2 Quetico trips in 2024. Not sure yet on 2025.

Savage Voyageur

01/01/2025 10:48PM

Present and accounted for. No plans yet for 2025 except a fishing trip in central Ontario.

mcsweem

01/01/2025 09:36PM

I’m still kicking and paddling

LaVirginienne

01/29/2025 01:46PM

Hey there!

Happy New Year to all!

Last year I took three trips into the BECA, each one memorable for its own reasons. In mid July I saw practically nobody on a 4 day solo trip out of Homer lake, exiting at Brule. Wolf and moose activity plus some nice solitude. I did a “scientific” test of my souped-up hammock camping setup during a violent thunderstorm and vowed never again to camp in a hammock lol.

After a short resupply break I then joined four childhood friends on a guided weeklong trip out of Moose Lake up through Ottertrack and back, which I loved.

I was back in late September on Clearwater to introduce my oldest friend to the North Country Experience. We did some birdwatching from the cliffs above Duluth to start off that trip, followed by a night at the Clearwater Lodge, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The winds were high and the fire ban was on so I think that curbed her enthusiasm somewhat. But she did get a bull moose and cow sighting early I. The rut which was a lucky omen. We capped off the trip with dinner in Ely at Insula before I dropped her at a friend’s house in the twin cities fun times.

My schedule this year is up in the air. I had a look at the Okd Farmer’s Almanach and it looks like a pretty warm and rainy forecast for May, a month I was considering for variety’s sake. But not being a cannot the skeeters, I decided to hold off on a permit this morning and will play things by ear.

I try to take at least one 10 day trip every year. This year, once again, it will be solo—from wherever and whenever I can put in. So grateful that my gray hairs are not yet getting in the way of my canoeing adventures.

if anybody has an encouraging word for me about May, please apeak up! Not sure why I'm so in the mood to profess firewood—something i never have the desire to do in summertime. thebfure ban late in the season took me off guard…

LaVirginienne

01/29/2025 01:59PM

dogwoodgirl: "I'm still kicking!

Only got one BWCA trip in last year and a short overnight closer to home. I've got a 2 week trip planned with my son for 2025, finally going to do the Beartrap River in a big loop out of Mudro.

Lots of artistic and poetry stuff going on in my life right now. Hoping my god-daughter and her son can make it up from KS for a short canoe trip too."

Good for you! Just signed a contract for my poetry translation and v excited to have it coming out in December. Working on more poems of my own. Don’t stop, dogwood girl!

Swampturtle

01/29/2025 02:10PM

I still lurk here on occasion. I also wonder about many here that seem to be missing that I used to enjoy…Missmolly, yellowcanoe.

In my mind I am always planning on going back to the BWCA for many more trips because it is so unique & beautiful. It feels like coming home to me. Traveling from NY makes it tough, I can travel a few hours North to the Adirondacks & be on the water for a week no permit needed. Lows just opened up after the lower dam was repaired after 2 seasons of being closed (I’m sure it will be busy), so that or Lila is my near future goal. In the meantime, I am slowly breaking in my new older rescue dog to the ways of camping & paddling. She has been great on local hikes & day trip paddles. She also did very well car camping upstate at a state park where we went day paddling at various smaller lakes this Summer. Next up is a longer river trip for us, possibly the Raquette with no portage or beaver dams to navigate. Not remote, but a good step to see what is possible for her & I need to get out there. I feel like we are both enjoying each other & getting used to camping & paddling together. Happy New Year everyone, enjoy paddling, planning trips & living vicariously.

Cherokee June 11, 2011. My first week long trip to Minnesota, 90 miles from Lake One to Sawbill. Epic trip.

BoxofRain

01/31/2025 08:38AM

Box of Rain is still here recuperating from a torn meniscus from the 366 R Portage to Tuscarora. The hike around Isle Royal probably didn't help. But it was definitely worth it

shouldertripper

01/31/2025 10:47AM

Last years trip with my 5 year old to Crocodile was foiled by vehicle troubles on the way up. We ended up squeezing in his first canoe camping trip with a short trip to Sylvania later in the summer.

This year planning 5 days at Fall Lake Campground with my now 6 year old son and 4 year old daughter with some day trips throughout.

July solo to mudro, my first time to the area, to scout out fairy lake for my daughter.

SouthernKevlar

02/02/2025 01:56PM

Have not made the trip up to the Boundary Waters in a couple of years and it looks like this year we will not make it. There is a slight chance that I can do a September trip, so my fingers are crossed. Hopefully last minute permits will be available, but if not, a closer but less interesting trip may work out.

I would like to get up North again soon.

Canoearoo

02/03/2025 11:45AM

I'm here! Ironically, last year we went in on Island River and we will be going there again this year because friends want to see it.

ILcdr

01/02/2025 12:54AM

Hopefully I can do a trip this year. It's been too long. Lots of dust on the canoes.

DanMN

01/02/2025 08:06AM

I'm here. There was no BWCA trips in 2024, but planning a week at Crystal lake in June.

ParkerMag

01/02/2025 04:09AM

Grabbed the late May/early June Quetico permit last night!

KevinL

01/02/2025 06:48AM

Still kicking.