Stuart River, Iron Lake Loop

This challenging loop takes you through many portages, some of which are quite long. The greatest challenges are reserved for an isolated section of lakes and rivers, but you will be able to enjoy yourself on the popular Iron Lake and the justly famous Lac La Croix.

Detailed Route Info

This first day on trail is a bear, with a long, 480-rod portage to kick things off. This brings you to the winding Stuart River, to Stuart Lake, which involves another five portages along the way.

Of the three lakes in this stretch. Rush Lake, is the nicest and the best for camping.

Once you are on Iron Lake you will have plenty of open water to cover and plenty o campsite options. Upon heading to Lac La Croix, you’ll have to portage of 80 rods along the Bottle Portage, a muddy slog if there ever was one.

Take some days to enjoy Lac La Croix (though no matter how long you stay, you’ll want to come back). Make your way south to Boulder Bay to the Dahlgren River and back to Stuart Lake. You’ll be in familiar territory here, and yes, that 480-rod portage will be right where you finished it a few days ago.

*Route information provided courtesy of Dan Pauly, and have been modified from his book, Exploring the Boundary Waters: A Trip Planner and Guide to the BWCAW. University of Minnesota Press, 2004