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BWCA Entry Point, Route, and Trip Report Blog

April 28 2024

Entry Point 7 - From Big Lake

Big Lake entry point allows overnight paddle only. This entry point is supported by Kawishiwi Ranger Station near the city of Ely, MN. The distance from ranger station to entry point is 28 miles. Access La Pond Lake with a 160-rod portage from outside the BWCAW on Big Lake. This area was affected by blowdown in 1999.

Number of Permits per Day: 2
Elevation: 1161 feet
Latitude: 48.0651
Longitude: -92.0188
From Big Lake - 7

Lake One to Insula

by drummerguy2
Trip Report

Entry Date: May 21, 2010
Entry Point: Lake One
Number of Days: 5
Group Size: 2

Trip Introduction:
Stayed overnight at Bearhead Island State Park to hit the outfitters early.

Report


Immediately could tell the water was low. Approximately 8 inches below average (as determined by pine pollen lines on shore boulders). Many islands on your maps will actually be peninsulas now. [paragraph break]

Got to the entry point and on the water about 8:30 AM. Easy paddling on partly cloudy day, low to mid-70s, wind calm. We rented a Bell Northwinds canoe. Very light, so we hand-carried the canoe without packs across most of the portages through to Hudson Lake. Final 100 rod portage carried on the shoulder. Extremely easy portages. At this time of year, there are many camp sites available and the portages are not too crowded. Got to Insula and camped at the island site in the west bay. Very nice site and secluded. Northern and smallmouth here. We stayed here two nights. [paragraph break] Headed back to Lake Three campsite. Waited out a thunderstorm that dropped hail and some scary lightening. After the storm left, we took a ride around the large island in Lake Three. Very interesting rock formations near those island campsites. No luck fishing here. [paragraph break] Moved to Lake One campsite, second one closest to the landing. Decided to head to the outfitters to get ice for our cocktails. No ice, but cold beers. Went back to camp. Very nice site. Packed up the next day and back in Ely about 10AM.

 


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