Portaging in the Boundary Waters (BWCA) – Brule Lake

Recently the Average Flatlanders went on a 5-day trip deep into the BWCA, starting with a base camp on Brule Lake, one of the largest bodies of water on the BWCA, camping on the edge of Cone Bay. We did 4 portages from Brule to Lower Cone, Lower to Middle Cone, Middle to Upper Cone, and then onto Cliff Lake.

We learned a thing or two about portaging in the Boundary Waters. If you are looking to hear something about the portages between Brule and the Cones, or just portaging in general, read on.

• Ensure you look carefully for all portages, they can be deceiving in finding their starting point, bring a good map or GPS
• Make sure to bring shoulder pads to carry canoe above your head, it much easier than carrying a canoe, even with two people, but your hands
• Watch your step carefully, lots of rocks and roots
• I prefer to put my backpack on and carry the canoe on my shoulders, to avoid multiple trips
• Hydrate and drink lots of water

If you are on Brule Lake in the BWCA and are thinking about portaging north through “The Cones”, Lower Cone, Middle Cone, Upper Cone, and then Cliff Lake … the portages between The Cones are short and flat, they are good starters if you are new to portaging.

The portage between Upper Cone and Cliff Lake is a little bit of a brutal one, mostly because it’s uphill most of the way from Upper Cone going towards Cliff Lake. It’s just long enough to make you tired.