Planning your Boundary Waters Trip
Spring and Summer camping seasons are right around the corner, so it’s time to start planning for a Boundary Waters trip.
If this is your first time going — or if you need a refresher before bringing a few friends out there — we got you covered!!
In one of the best introduction to canoeing in the BWCA, Dan Pauly, author of a popular guidebook to paddling in the Boundary Waters, Exploring the Boundary Waters, takes you through the nuts and bolts of how to enjoy this magical wilderness.
This presentation will cover the basics to get you started.
If you are looking to dive deeper, we also offer online resources on many of the topics, linked here:
- Step-by-Step Planning Guide
- Route Recommendations
- How to get permits for the BWCA
- How to pack for the Boundary Waters
- BWCA gear you’ll need
- How to Contact an Outfitter
- How to Portage and Paddle
- Bear Safety
- Leave No Trace and Wilderness Ethics
The presentation was brought to you as part of our spring Boundary Waters Days with REI Co-op series.
Continue Reading
Start Planning your 2026 BWCA Trip Now!
It's time to start planning for your summer Boundary Waters adventure. Explore the most complete online collection of BWCA resources.
Become a Clean Water Delegate
Becoming a delegate is one of the most impactful things you can do to make politicians protect the Boundary Waters.
5 Wins for the Boundary Waters in 2025
Discover five major victories for clean water and the Boundary Waters achieved in 2025—thanks to supporters like you.