My brother and I are headed to BWCA for the first time in September, for 5 days, putting it at EP25 (Moose Lake). We both have intermediate camping and canoe experience.

Would love to hear route suggestions for those five days from experience BWCA paddlers. We don't want to burn ourselves out with too much paddling, will be fishing, and ideally would like to avoid very long portages.

Any and all input is welcome, thanks!

- P.D.

The Ribbon Rock

Spend the small amount of cash and get a tow from LaTourells.

I enjoy paddling Moose, especially in September.

Up Moose, to Knife, then depending on how you're feeling, Kek, Ima, Disappointment, across Snowbank, and you can get back to Moose landing. If not feeling quite that ambitious, from Knife to Vera, Ensign, Boot, and Snowbank to Moose EP. Or from Ensign back through Moose.

I was a planner for a career so like the unplanned approach. Pick a first day direction and take a lot of maps.

Moose -Wind Lake- Wind Bay of Basswood- up and around and down to Good or Indiana- back to Wind Bay-Wind Lake-Moose out.

What are the major differences or pros / cons of going west vs. east from Moose Lake? Different types of water ?

I've not gone west through wind, plenty of times through PP and west on Basswood. Compared to the routes east of Moise,vwest is generally bigger water, fewer smaller lakes and streams. I've loved my trips on Basswood, paddling all day, but the winding through streams and narrow passages east has a more peaceful charm. They're both wonderful.

The biggest difference between going east or west from Moose Lake is that by going east, you'll travel through Basswood Lake which allows motor boats (25HP limit). The US/Canadian border also runs through Basswood, which will likely have other either lessor or greater restrictions on motor operated water craft on the Canadian side.