Simplicity
Enjoy the simplicity of life in the wilderness.
Learn about Boundary Waters etiquette, Leave No Trace, and the benefits of traveling light.
“Boundary Waters Etiquette” - on trail we will come across other campers; it is respectful to leave space between parties so both can enjoy the wilderness and have privacy in camp. On portages this means letting people load their canoes before pulling in and also stepping aside to give way to the person carrying a canoe.
“Leave No Trace” - Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles created to preserve the remaining wilderness we have on earth for generations to come. LNT is required in the Boundary Waters. It guides the way we travel and shows respect for God’s creation. Learn more here: 7 LNT principles, LNT in BWCA, US Department of Agriculture.
Traveling Light
Gear will be provided and carried in portage packs. You just bring clothes and a toothbrush... and a Bible…
Personal Packs
Each personal pack stores the clothing and sleeping gear for two people. It carries their clothes, toiletries, few personal items, sleeping bags/pads, pillows, and part of a tent. Tents sleep four people single-gender, so one tent can split between two personal packs.
Food Pack
This is where all our food goes along with the dishes, utensils, and pots for cooking. We store all food in Bear Vaults to prevent bears from getting it. All toiletries and garbage are also stored in their own Bear Vaults at night and when we’re away from camp.
Utility Pack
If you’re looking for a tarp, it’s in here. Do you need the first aid kit or some work gloves? Here. Where can you find the hammocks, clothes line, water filters, and anything else you need at camp? In the utility pack. Repair kits, a saw, rope, …
Canoe
Kevlar canoes, wooden paddles, and life jackets will also be provided or rented for the group.
So what do you bring?
Campers will be given a packing list and it is very simple. You’ll also be given a stuff sack for your clothes and a dry bag for your personal items. We’ll talk before the trip about what to bring.
Remember: travel light!
At the end of the day, you, your group, and your guide will be glad you did.
Keeping it real…
A struggle: The portage packs are heavy. We carry in everything we need and pack it all out (including garbage). It’s not usually till after a trip that people realize this and talk about how we could cut down the packing list even more.
An invitation: Traveling light is incredibly freeing. Realizing we can live on way less than we think is powerful. As we open our hands and hold loosely to the things of the world, watch for the wonders God replaces in those open hands.
A hope: Doing a full portage is incredible. The growth and accomplishment people feel as they increase their ability to work hard, smart, and safe is powerful. They also realize beauty on trail is greater than the items left at home.