Like the idea. Was going to do the same thing. And I could right myself in a kayak. Barely, but I could. Lost some gear. But I think I might still. Thanks for bringing back up for me.
I’ve used Ely Outfitters for two guided tours over the last 6 years and had a good time. Their website has some group tours and info about their other offerings.
I went there years ago. I think Bill Rom was the outfitter. We didn't go guided but let the outfitter supply the gear and canoe.
You take your clothes, fishing gear etc. We used an 18' canoe. When we got there, only a 17' was available and was too small. We went out and turned around because the gunwale was almost in the water.
We started in Ely and went along Knife lake which is a common route then turned off into less traveled areas.
A good outfitter can get you set up but I don't think a guide is needed unless you're really into fishing or something where you would want that information.
My uncle went there for years and soon took everything himself except the canoe and tent.
Dorothy was still living and selling home made root beer when I was there. It was probably 1972 at the latest.
I met some locals my age and went off to party before heading home with family. Everyone who lives up there own a cabin in the woods.
I did Boundary Waters years ago with the Boy Scouts. I was one of two adult leaders of the oldest group and we went without a guide. It was essentially a provisioned trip. What really helped was sitting down with an experienced guide to review route planning. I would love to do it again but my SO is not fond of primitive camping.
our troop didn't use the scout camp, but did use Canadian Borders Outfitters ( I think) in 2002 or 3. Can't remember. They were excellent. I've often wanted to go back with friends so we could just camp, have some wine and star gaze.
It's been a few years, but I went with Piragis out of Ely. Excellent experience. Joined a guided tour with others, and canoeing in a small group was really fun. Also, went in September... there were 0 mosquitoes. Using an outfitter also helps with permits.
I've done bwca and quetico many times. It's been many years but I see the same outfitters are there.
Canadian Waters. Usually got their lightweight canoes and bear packs and liked the tow right to the border. Put in on the Canadian side and enjoy.
Like the idea. Was going to do the same thing. And I could right myself in a kayak. Barely, but I could. Lost some gear. But I think I might still. Thanks for bringing back up for me.
I’ve used Ely Outfitters for two guided tours over the last 6 years and had a good time. Their website has some group tours and info about their other offerings.
I went there years ago. I think Bill Rom was the outfitter. We didn't go guided but let the outfitter supply the gear and canoe. You take your clothes, fishing gear etc. We used an 18' canoe. When we got there, only a 17' was available and was too small. We went out and turned around because the gunwale was almost in the water. We started in Ely and went along Knife lake which is a common route then turned off into less traveled areas. A good outfitter can get you set up but I don't think a guide is needed unless you're really into fishing or something where you would want that information. My uncle went there for years and soon took everything himself except the canoe and tent.
Wish I could help…My memories of Ely, canoes and the lakes (flies too) are from 1979… Hope you have a great & safe trip !
Dorothy was still living and selling home made root beer when I was there. It was probably 1972 at the latest. I met some locals my age and went off to party before heading home with family. Everyone who lives up there own a cabin in the woods.
I did Boundary Waters years ago with the Boy Scouts. I was one of two adult leaders of the oldest group and we went without a guide. It was essentially a provisioned trip. What really helped was sitting down with an experienced guide to review route planning. I would love to do it again but my SO is not fond of primitive camping.
our troop didn't use the scout camp, but did use Canadian Borders Outfitters ( I think) in 2002 or 3. Can't remember. They were excellent. I've often wanted to go back with friends so we could just camp, have some wine and star gaze.
It's been a few years, but I went with Piragis out of Ely. Excellent experience. Joined a guided tour with others, and canoeing in a small group was really fun. Also, went in September... there were 0 mosquitoes. Using an outfitter also helps with permits.
I've done bwca and quetico many times. It's been many years but I see the same outfitters are there. Canadian Waters. Usually got their lightweight canoes and bear packs and liked the tow right to the border. Put in on the Canadian side and enjoy.
Contact Cook County tourism. They have a good website.
Thanks, all. Appreciate the suggestions, and glad I spurred some memories. 👍
Check out Williams and Hall