Gunflint Trail Canoe Trips - Grand Marais - Minnesota
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Frequently Asked Questions Why take a wilderness canoe trip? Why do I need an outfitter? How do I know where to go? What should I bring? Why take a wilderness canoe trip? A vacation in the BWCAW or Quetico Park through a Gunflint Trail, Minnesota, outfitter offers unique opportunities to escape the fast pace of daily life, away from technology and the typical everyday hum of the city. Many come here simply to enjoy the quiet and feeling of solitude. For the photographer or artist, there are many visual delights. From the touching scene of a cow moose watching over her newborn calf to the Aurora Borealis dancing in the night sky, beautiful images abound. Fisherfolk will find trophy walleye, smallmouth bass, lake trout, and northern pike. And for the lover of nature, there is simple pleasure in absorbing all that is around you as you paddle along a shoreline or narrow stream. Wildlife is easily observed in natural settings and plant life, much that is unique to the boreal forest, can be found in the woods and along the portages. With the help of one of the Gunflint Trail Outfitters, all of these can be enjoyed by couples, families, individuals and groups. The outfitters know where to find what you are interested in and how to get you there and back safely. Why do I need an outfitter? Experience is the main reason to use an outfitter. While wilderness canoeing is not rocket science, it is something that most people do not know much about. The outfitters of the Gunflint Trail know canoeing, camping and routes through the vast numbers of lakes in canoe country. Your outfitter begins by finding out what you would like from your wilderness vacation. Then, using their experience and knowledge of the area, they will help you plan a route. There are about 50 specific routes and infinite variations to choose from within the BWCAW and Quetico. Picking the right one for the desires, experience level, physical limitations and time available to your group can be very difficult using only guidebooks or the recommendation of a friend who has some experience. Proper equipment is more than just convenient. It can make the difference between the vacation of a lifetime and a miserable workout. The professional outfitters of the Gunflint Trail use a variety of equipment, but all specifically designed for light weight, durability and long term functionality. You will be thankful for a truly watertight tent in a July thunderstorm, a supremely warm sleeping bag in late September or a super light kevlar canoe on that long portage to where the walleyes are hitting. The Gunflint Trail Outfitters know the area and use their knowledge to pick the right route for you. Your outfitter also has the right stuff for wilderness canoeing. Lightweight gear, food and canoes are standard, each outfitter has an equipment package specifically designed for the purpose. Enjoy your next vacation and leave the work to the professionals on the Gunflint Trail. How do I know where to go? One of the most commonly asked questions is,"What if I get lost?" Getting lost is next to impossible with the high quality maps available through your outfitter. Again, route choice may be determined by your experience and comfort level with reading maps. There are routes that are very simple to follow for the beginner as well as more challenging routes for the seasoned wilderness traveler. Guide service is available through many outfitters for those who really feel they need some help finding their way or would like to have an experienced person along. What should I bring? For people using complete outfitting services from an outfitter, the list is simple: minimal clothing, sturdy shoes or boots, a few personal items, fishing equipment if you wish, camera equipment and an open mind. It is important to bring appropriate clothing for the conditions you are likely to encounter while you are here. Layering and versatile clothing are a must. Weather is often variable and unpredictable at all times of the year, so be prepared for what might come your way. Your outfitter can help you decide and may provide a list to work from. Try to keep fishing tackle simple, Samsonite-sized tackle boxes seldom carry much of what you might need. Ask your outfitter what tackle is working for the fish you would like to catch. Live bait is allowed in the BWCAW, but minnows are prohibited in the Quetico Park. Please your leave your best camera at home; expensive cameras tend to find a way into the water. A good point-and-shoot is usually sufficient. If your main focus is photography, then bring what you like but make sure you have waterproof containers for the expensive parts. |
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© 2007 Gunflint Trail Association
Information Center 1.218.387.3191
Contact us by email
info@gunflint-trail.com
© 2007 Gunflint Trail Association