The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a stunningly beautiful wilderness area on the Minnesota-Canadian border. It covers over a million acres of unspoiled woodlands, lakes, and rivers. The area is a destination for canoeing, camping, hiking, and fishing.
The History of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
The history of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness can be traced back to the Native Americans who lived in the area for centuries. In the 17th century, French explorers and trappers arrived in the area. The fur trade grew in importance in the 18th century, and by the mid-19th century, logging had become a major industry.
In the early 20th century, efforts began to preserve the area as a wilderness. In 1926, President Calvin Coolidge signed a bill that established the Superior National Forest. In 1930, the Quetico-Superior Committee was formed to study the feasibility of creating a wilderness area. In 1964, Congress passed the Wilderness Act, which designated the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness as a protected area.
Canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Canoeing is the most popular activity in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. There are over 1,200 miles of canoe routes and hundreds of lakes and streams to explore. Canoeing is a great way to see the area’s stunningly beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
The canoe routes in the area range from easy to challenging. There are routes that are suitable for beginners and families, as well as routes that are only recommended for experienced paddlers. Visitors can choose from day trips to multi-day expeditions.
Camping in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Camping is another popular activity in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. There are over 2,000 designated campsites in the wilderness area. The campsites are located on the shores of the lakes and rivers.
The campsites in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are primitive. There are no showers or flush toilets. Visitors must pack in and pack out all their supplies. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is recommended that visitors arrive early to secure a spot.
Hiking in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Hiking is another way to explore the wonders of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. There are over 400 miles of trails that wind through the forest and along the lakes and rivers. The trails range from easy to challenging, with something for hikers of all levels.
The hiking trails in the area range from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. Visitors can explore the area’s stunningly beautiful landscapes and wildlife on foot.
Fishing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Fishing is another popular activity in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The area is home to several species of fish, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and lake trout. Fishing is allowed year-round in the wilderness area.
Visitors must obtain a Minnesota fishing license to fish in the area. Fishing regulations vary depending on the species of fish and the time of year.
Conclusion
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a stunningly beautiful wilderness area that offers visitors the opportunity to explore unspoiled woodlands, lakes, and rivers. The area is a destination for canoeing, camping, hiking, and fishing. Visitors can choose from day trips to multi-day expeditions and explore the area’s stunningly beautiful landscapes and wildlife.