Each year, crews of girls step into the wilderness for an adventure unlike any other. From paddling past loons and nature hikes to cooking brownies over the campfire and laughing with friends, our trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness allows girls to learn new skills, see wildlife and laugh with friends.

Our Northern Lakes Boundary Waters Canoe Base is located 14 miles from Ely, Minnesota, and leased from the U.S. Forest Service. Girls need to be at least 12 years old to participate. Trips for women - with or without girls - are also available.

Arrival Day
We meet mid-day in Ely to travel to the canoe base.  After splitting into canoeing groups, training begins. Girls learn about paddling, portaging and canoe safety. We spend the first night in tents at the canoe base.

Adventure Begins
The following morning after breakfast, we are off on the wilderness adventure of a lifetime! We enjoy the eagles and loons as we paddle and portage to new lakes. Each day we will arrive at a new camp site where we will pitch tents and spend the afternoon and evening swimming, relaxing, journaling, exploring, and laughing with new and old friends.

Layover Day
We wake up to a pancake feast. Some of us take a short day trip to see pictographs, waterfalls or the Root Beer Lady’s old homestead.

Final Day
We paddle back into the base singing and talking about our new skills and accomplishments.  We unpack our bags, take a hot shower, visit the trading post and start planning for next year!