Boundary Waters?

[IA_Seth]

Hey all...I am looking at planning a trip for me and my bro to the BWCA and possibly Quetico either late this year or possibly next spring (if I don't get crackin).

Has anyone done any canoeing up there, any outfitters you would recommend?

I will probably be going in near Ely, depending upon the route we choose.

[LNM]

1. I've day-tripped out of Ely and gone on 2 overnights

off the Sawbill and Caribou trails, returning on one of them via the Gunflint trail. We prefer the eastern area of the BWCAW as it's more rugged. Out of Ely we've rented canoes from Pirogis. They were very helpful. On the other side we rented canoes from Sawtooth outfitters in Tofte (twice). If you want to go in on the east side, but not at the end of the Sawbill trail, make sure you rent from Sawtooth outfitters and not Sawbill outfitters. We made the mistake of making reservations with Sawbill outfitters (their address is Tofte) but they are way out on the end of the Sawbill trail. Canceled that reservation and rented from Sawtooth. They were very nice about it.
Sorry, we haven't rented any other equipment although we have looked over Pirogis' used canoes and backs and they seem to be in very good shape. They sell most of their rental equipment after every season. Most other outfitters keep their stuff around 3-5 years. At least that's what Pirogis told us.
As far as I know there is no Canadian Customs located in the Boundary Waters anymore. There used to be one on Saganaga, but that's been closed for about 5 years. If you plan far enough ahead you can contact Canadian Customs in Thunder Bay, Ont. and can a "Can-Pass" by mail. You'll need this to go to Quetico if you're not using a guide.
Also, there are some maps online that show the blow down area (can't remember where). You may want to check them out to choose an entry point.

[RebelOne]

2. Check this guy out.

Bill Slaughter, call 1-800-559-9695, or visit his Web site at www.elymnguide.com