Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Trip Planning Forum :: Trip planning dates
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NEIowapaddler |
I did my first BWCA trip last September, a solo trip to Perent Lake for six days. Had a good time and learned a lot, too. I chose September last year, both because it was when I had time in my schedule, and because I was advised that it was a great time of year to go due to weather and lack of bugs. That was good advice, because there were almost no bugs and the weather was great. I'm planning another trip this year, EP TBD, and it looks like September might be out due to other commitments. So I'm looking at alternate times of year, and considering late May/early June, around Memorial Day, but I'm wondering, A. How crowded the BWCA will be around then? and B. How bad the bugs are likely to be? Thanks! |
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YetiJedi |
As for bugs, that can really vary depending on the weather, naturally. Again my observations have been there are more bugs in late May than in late September. June seems to see a huge increase in the number of bugs. That said, it also depends on the types of insects that "bug" you the most! I'm sure more knowledgeable folks will chime in with more exact info. Hope that helps! |
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TuscaroraBorealis |
Generally speaking, I think May (pre- Memorial day) & September ( post labor day) are roughly similar for the criteria you asked about. As YetiJedi already mentioned, weather plays a factor but you won't know that until it comes. Enjoy |
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NEIowapaddler |
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lindylair |
Due to the relatively lighter levels of traffic we have had no trouble getting the campsites that we were hoping for although no guarantees. I think this depends somewhat on where you go in too. If you combine a lesser used entry point with a lesser used time of year I think your odds are pretty good. Other benefits of this time of year include generally higher water levels if that matters to your route, and long hours of daylight. I went in mid September once and we were unlucky with the weather, cold and rain for days in a row. Our experience with late May has been much better. |
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Northwoodsman |
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NEIowapaddler |
Northwoodsman: "Another factor to consider is that the water will be much colder in May due to the ice having just melted (hopefully). I used Muck boots for my May trip to keep my feet warm and dry, they worked very well and I highly recommend it if possible. Some landings were a little tricky but we figured it out. Depending on what part of May you still may find ice on some portages where their was deep snow and in the shade so be careful. Depending on the weather leading up to your trip the ground still may be very cold (possibly frozen just below the surface) so if you are sleeping on the ground be aware of that, a good insulated pad is recommended. With all that said there is something about being the first person on a portage or at a campsite for the year as the forest wakes up." Great point on the boots. I'll definitely keep that in mind. I don't mind getting my feet wet when it's nice and warm, but cold water is no fun to walk in without protective footwear. |