About this Trip

The Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota are the wilderness setting for this classic Camp Nicolet and Northpoint Adventures trip, a tradition since camp’s second decade (the 1950s). Originally led by Nicolet founder Wendall Schrader in unison with family friends and seasonal camp staff for nearly 30 years, the trip made a resurgence in 2006 at the request and enthusiasm of senior campers and staff. Originally named, “The Canadian,” Voyageurs Wilderness Canoe ventures to the border of the United States and Canada as participants paddle the Basswood River connecting the Horse River with expansive Basswood Lake. A circle trip encompassing 52 miles paddling and 14 portages, 6 challenging days are spent in the camaraderie of the trip group and seasoned Northpoint Adventures leaders. A seventh day is added for travel to and from camp. Great care is given to the trip menu, with evenings spent enjoying hot beverages and delicious food at lakeside campsites situated on smooth rock slabs native to the area. Think back to your early trips (Sylvania Wilderness Canoe), and you’ll hear again the familiar sound of the loon’s call, or perhaps the sound of a wolf’s howl and an owl’s hoot far in the distance. Awake to lifting fog and a morning of drifting along in your canoe on glassy water, achieving mileage well before the winds of the afternoon gain momentum. Although steeped in unending beauty, Voyageurs Wilderness Canoe as a trip is advanced in nature and challenges backcountry mettle. Upper body strength is gained through longer paddling days and difficult, often muddy, portages. Working together tackling the portages is paramount. The feeling of accomplishment upon return is lifelong, and soon you realize you inspire others at camp to tackle this goal. This trip is strongly recommended for CIT I participants interested in Rocky Mountain Backpacking.