BWCA Informantion

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has grown to be one of the largest canoe wildernesses. Containing over 1000 lakes and 1200 miles of canoe routes through various waterways, the BWCA is an ideal area in which to take a day canoe trip or overnight. Scenic bluffs, majestic waterfalls, fantastic vistas, and spectacular palisades are just a few of natural beauties in the Boundary Waters and Gunflint Trail area.

After the last ice age’s glaciers created the cliffs, valleys, and ridges that now arc through the Boundary Waters, many explorers ventured into the wilderness of what is now the BWCA. Natives, fur traders, trappers, missionaries, prospectors, and loggers have all created the portages and trails that connect the lakes and rivers of the BWCA. Even with the history of exploration, the BWCA is unspoiled due to its natural defense from its rugged terrain and numerous lakes. Thus the Boundary Waters protected itself from development and remains one of the few wildernesses of the area.

Today, government protection ensures the longevity of the BWCA through its prevention of logging, mining, and commercial development within its borders. The canoe country remains what it was in the past: a wilderness for canoeing and hiking adventures among the natural wildlife of northern Minnesota.

Sunrise over Flour Lake	Fox along Gunflint Trail
Moccasin Flowers at      Golden Eagle Lodge	Rose Lake Falls

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