Boundary Waters Canoe Expedition, MN

***Special Promotion*** All trip participants will receive a Fjällräven Kånken R backpack (valued at $100) generously donated by our good friends at Fjällräven. Made from recycled materials and ready for adventure!

A Canoe experience like never before in an outdoor lovers paradise!

The Ely – Kawishiwi District of the Superior National Forest features ample canoeing, hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and road biking opportunities. Before or after the trip take in the vibrant Northwoods arts, food, and culture that is nationally renowned. Ely features the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center and lots of other attractions.

Volunteers will experience a once in a lifetime guided to canoe travel across Ojibway Lake, cross the historic roller portage into Triangle Lake, and set up a base camp nearby. From there, you’ll will build a designated North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) campsite that will serve as basecamp for the week. While in the Boundary Waters you’ll get to construct a new segment of the NCT. Tools, training, and supervision will be provided.

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

Avg. Temperature:

Typical weather for this area during this season has highs of about 60–65°F and lows of 40–45°F. Late September in the Boundary Waters region is cool with crisp nights, fall colors, and occasional rain showers.

Land Acknowledgement:

AHS acknowledges with gratitude that this project takes place on the traditional lands of the Anishinabewaki, and Očhéthi Šakówiŋ people past and present. We honor the land itself, the Indigenous communities who have stewarded these islands and mountain landscapes for countless generations, and those who continue this stewardship today. This acknowledgement is one step in our ongoing commitment to uplift Indigenous voices. We invite the American Hiking Society community to learn about, support, and stand in solidarity with the Indigenous peoples whose lands we live, work, and recreate on.