ELY WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Lakes, Portages and a 67‑Foot Waterfall: Lodge-Based Canoeing in the Boundary Waters from Wintergreen Lodge
A four‑day, lodge‑based canoe adventure out of Wintergreen Lodge on White Iron Lake that pairs day trips into the BWCAW — including a hike to Kawishiwi Falls — with nights in private cabins.
Lakes, Portages and a 67‑Foot Waterfall: Lodge-Based Canoeing in the Boundary Waters from Wintergreen Lodge.
Paddle classic granite‑rimmed lakes of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness by day and return each evening to the comforts of Wintergreen Lodge on White Iron Lake — cozy cabins, hot showers and communal meals set against the north‑end shoreline. The program blends multiple day‑trip options — from short paddles and swims to an all‑day canoe trip to the Kawishiwi River and a hike to the tumbling 67‑foot Kawishiwi Falls — under experienced guide leadership in a small‑group setting.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Day trips into the Boundary Waters from White Iron Lake
Canoe the Boundary Waters in 18‑foot ultra‑light Wenonah Kevlar canoes on daily outings that range from easy to challenging, then return to a private cabin on White Iron Lake each night.
Hike to Kawishiwi Falls and explore scenic river corridors
Choose from several day‑trip options, including hiking to the Kawishiwi Falls — a 67‑foot cascade — or paddling an all‑day route on the Kawishiwi River.
Cabin comfort after wilderness days
After paddling and portaging across exposed Canadian Shield terrain, spend evenings at Wintergreen Lodge in private cabins with hot showers, comfortable beds and group meals.
What the day feels like
What the four days feel like
Mornings begin at the lodge with gear organized for the day; you’ll slide into roomy Kevlar canoes and spend 3–6 hours paddling between lakes, punctuated by 2–4 portages per day that vary from short, steep climbs to quarter‑mile carries. Routes are chosen by guides according to conditions and group interest, so a single week might mix a relaxed loop around Paradise Ponds with an all‑day river trip and a waterfall hike, then finish with a visit to Ely’s International Wolf Center before departure.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a four‑day program operating out of Wintergreen Lodge in Ely, MN with daily paddles and excursions of varying length.
You are welcome to bring cell phones and cameras, but devices are your responsibility; expect inconsistent cell service and consider unplugging during outings.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What should I do in an emergency while participants are on the trail?
If you need to reach leaders due to an emergency, call Wilderness Inquiry’s main phone line at (612) 676‑9400; staff will work to contact trip leaders as soon as possible.
Are guides trained for medical and water emergencies?
All Wilderness Inquiry guides possess experience in administering First Aid, CPR and Water Safety, carry fully stocked first‑aid kits and GPS communication devices, and are trained to respond to emergencies on the trail.
What is the operator’s COVID‑19 policy?
Wilderness Inquiry encourages participants to be fully up‑to‑date with COVID‑19 vaccination, asks travelers to self‑screen for illness before departure, and will follow current guidance and location requirements; the policy is monitored and updated as needed.
Can I bring my cell phone and camera?
Yes — you are welcome to bring cell phones and other devices like cameras, but they are your responsibility; cell service may be inconsistent and guests are encouraged to unplug.
How inclusive are the groups?
Groups typically include people of various ages, backgrounds and abilities, including people with disabilities; Wilderness Inquiry prepares meals as a group and maintains community agreements to support an inclusive environment.