“The defining wilderness expedition”
Year
2028
Cost
$600-900
Ages
13-17
Duration
6-7 days
Overview
Superior National Forest, MN • Summer (June-August)
This is the trip they'll talk about for life. Paddle 50-70 miles through pristine wilderness, portage your canoe between lakes, camp on remote islands, and learn what true self-sufficiency means.
What Makes This Special
- •50-70 miles of wilderness paddling
- •Portages carrying canoes between lakes
- •Camp on remote wilderness islands
- •Moose, loons, bald eagles, and maybe wolves
Skills You'll Develop
Requirements
- ✓Completed at least 1 Tier 1 trip with positive evaluation
- ✓Pass fitness test: 8-mile hike with 35lb pack in under 4 hours
- ✓Leader recommendation required
Fitness Test:
8-mile hike with 35lb pack and 3,000+ ft elevation in under 4 hours
Difficulty Level
AdvancedSeason
Summer (June-August)Why This Trip?
The Boundary Waters is true wilderness - no roads, no cabins, no cell service. You'll paddle into remote lakes where the only sounds are wind, water, and wildlife. This trip separates 'I went camping' from 'I survived the wilderness.'
The Experience
7 days of paddling 8-10 miles per day with portages (carrying canoes overland) between lakes. Camp on remote islands. Navigate by map and compass. All food carried in packs and bear-proofed. See moose, hear wolves, count shooting stars.
The Challenges
- ⚠Portaging 80+ lb canoe plus 40 lb pack
- ⚠Weather exposure (storms can be intense)
- ⚠Physical demands day after day
- ⚠Mental challenge of extended wilderness
- ⚠Bugs (mosquitoes and blackflies in summer)
The Rewards
- ✓Paddling pristine lakes no car can reach
- ✓Wildlife encounters (moose, loons, eagles)
- ✓Northern lights and million-star nights
- ✓Stories you'll tell your grandkids
- ✓Brotherhood that lasts forever