- Estimated Cost: $150
- Deposit: $70
- Max Trip Size: 8 people
The Border Route Trail is a 65-mile long hiking trail that crosses the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in the far northeast corner of Minnesota and follows the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Canada. It connects with the Superior Hiking Trail on its eastern terminus and with the Kekekabic Trail on its western end at the Gunflint Trail.
We will leave the twin cities early Saturday morning, place supply caches in the center of the border route trail, then stay in two rustic cabins in the Bearskin Lake campground. Sunday we will begin hiking in two groups, each starting from opposite sides of the BRT. The groups will meet in the middle at Daniels lake for a car key swap and a night of camping as a full group on hiking day 3. After the sixth and last day of hiking, we will reach our cars and stay in a bunkhouse at Clearwater Historic Lodge (SHOWERS INCLUDED). On the final day, we will retrieve our trash caches and drive home to the Twin Cities.
Total mileage will be 68 miles, with between 9 and 13 miles hiked each day.
Important notes:
- You must be an experienced backpacker capable of hiking 15 miles per day with a full pack. I will organize at least one group day hike with full packs prior to the trip so we can meet each other, review the itinerary, and ensure we’re all up to the physical demands of this trip.
- Food will be provided by each individual including a couple lunches at local restaurants. No group meals will be provided as part of the trip cost.
- This trip will require two bear canisters or ursacks per person, due to the food & supply caching. Plan in advance to obtain two food storage devices.
- Latrines are generally available in the BWCA at campsites, but you must be comfortable using catholes if necessary.
Trip costs cover the wilderness permits, first and last night’s accommodations, fuel & mileage, plus one night in a state forest campground. You are responsible for consumables such as food, stove fuel, etc.