I recently posted on the Trip Planning Forum, the annual invite to join us on the Border Route Challenge. But while posting this, I felt like my post didn't really explain what the Challanges are all about....especially for new people to this site.

Then this morning, I came upon a writeup on the Kondos Outdoors gear website written last fall just prior to the Challenge start, that really is a nice overview of what it is- some of the history and a good description of the route. I don't know who the author is, but it is good.

So for those of you who say to yourself, "What the heck is this Border Route Challenge trip?", here is a good explanation.

2022 Border Challenges

Thanks for linking this helpful summary of the challenges. I don't consider myself experienced enough to attempt any of these at this time but I've been interested in learning more and I found this digestible summary really helpful.

I especially appreciate learning that the challenges welcome both competitors and those just seeking "a chance to challenge themselves, discover what they are capable of, pay tribute to those who have gone before, and immerse in such a special place and see it in a way few people ever do."

The more I'm on this site, the longer my bucket list gets....

Thanks BeaV, it was a fun article to write! I'm a big fan of yours and of the annual border route challenges. My only shot at one of the routes ended before it started with a lovely double ear infection which really set in at the Grand while dropping off a finish vehicle. If everything goes well, and everyone gets time off, I may have a run through the Voyageur scheduled over the 4th. Fingers crossed since, as mentioned in the article, I really want to do it!

TreeBear: "Thanks BeaV, it was a fun article to write!"

Well, seems I should be thanking you, too, TreeBear....appreciate your writing! Best of luck with your run this summer if you're able to do it.

TreeBear: "Thanks BeaV, it was a fun article to write! I'm a big fan of yours and of the annual border route challenges. My only shot at one of the routes ended before it started with a lovely double ear infection which really set in at the Grand while dropping off a finish vehicle. If everything goes well, and everyone gets time off, I may have a run through the Voyageur scheduled over the 4th. Fingers crossed since, as mentioned in the article, I really want to do it! "

Come on over to Grand Portage for our dinner and awards ceremony on Saturday evening, September 9, 2023. Keep me posted, we would love to have you join us.

Sorry, I wasn't specific about the month. Fourth of July for our shot. That said, I am out of Ely and have thought about coming over for a finish some year. Hopefully you'll have a good turn out again! It's fun to see the permits disappear for an otherwise quiet EP.

I think a lot of people count themselves out as not having the experience to do one of these challenges. If you can whittle your gear down enough to single portage, you have experience dealing with making decisions regarding wind and weather, and are a reasonably reliable navigator, you can do this. If in doubt, start with the Moose Lake Challenge...healthy nights of sleep and no night paddling required for this shorter version. The sights, the sense of accomplishment, and the people can't be beat.

TreeBear: "Thanks BeaV, it was a fun article to write! I'm a big fan of yours and of the annual border route challenges. My only shot at one of the routes ended before it started with a lovely double ear infection which really set in at the Grand while dropping off a finish vehicle. If everything goes well, and everyone gets time off, I may have a run through the Voyageur scheduled over the 4th. Fingers crossed since, as mentioned in the article, I really want to do it! "

You're welcome TreeBear. I hope your summer plans work out and you get to do the entire Voyageur Route!

Yes Tree Bear, Come join us for the party at the end. I've read a lot of your posts and would like to meet you. I'm sure with all your BW experience you'll have no trouble making good time in July if your plans hold.