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Packsack, BWCA outfitters to The Boy Scouts of America.

Complete Boundary Waters Canoe Trip Outfitting in Ely, Minnesota

Packsack Canoe Trips offers complete Boundary Waters canoe trip outfitting for paddlers planning self-guided BWCA adventures from Ely, Minnesota. Our full outfitting packages include canoes, camping and portage gear, trip food planning, transportation, and local expertise to help simplify every stage of your trip. Whether you are new to the Boundary Waters or an experienced paddler looking to leave the logistics to a trusted Ely outfitter, we provide the preparation, equipment, and support needed for a smooth and successful wilderness canoe trip.

 

 

Packsack Canoe Trips BWCA outfitters, to all western entry points.

What to Prepare Before Your Complete BWCA Outfitting Consultation

If you are considering complete outfitting for your Boundary Waters canoe trip, we will walk through the details together during your trip planning consultation. Thinking about the following topics in advance helps us tailor your outfitting package to your group, experience level, and travel goals.

Group Size, Dates & Entry Logistics

We’ll discuss how many people are in your group, your preferred BWCA entry points, your preferred entry and exit dates, and whether your group will split into multiple BWCA permit groups. We’ll also talk about whether you plan to stay in our bunkhouse before or after your BWCA trip and how that fits into your travel schedule.

Experience Level & Group Readiness

We take time to understand your group’s experience level, including first-time Boundary Waters paddlers, family-friendly BWCA canoe trips, or groups with limited physical ability. This helps us recommend appropriate routes, gear, and pacing to ensure a safe and enjoyable Boundary Waters experience.

Food Planning & Camp Kitchen Setup

We’ll discuss meal preferences, the number of meals you plan to cook, and whether you want to rely on dehydrated food packs or prepare some meals yourself. Proper Boundary Waters food planning helps keep weight manageable and meals enjoyable throughout your canoe trip.

Transportation, Tows & Exit Day Planning

BWCA entry point transportation to most entry points, scheduled exit-day pick-ups, and tow services on Fall Lake or other motorized entry points can be part of your complete outfitting plan. We’ll coordinate these details to keep your trip running smoothly.

Trip Style, Routes & Daily Travel Expectations

Every BWCA trip is different. With our BWCA route planning assistance we’ll help determine whether your group prefers basecamp travel, daily lake-to-lake travel, fishing-focused routes, or a more ambitious paddling itinerary. We’ll also talk about how many hours you want to paddle each day and how challenging you want your route to be.

Gear Needs & Equipment Planning

Complete BWCA outfitting includes detailed gear planning. We’ll review what Boundary Waters equipment you need, whether you require specialty items, and if any group members have allergies or specific equipment concerns. Our goal is to ensure you have everything required without unnecessary extras.

Navigation, Communication & Safety Considerations

With proper BWCA trip preparation guidance, we’ll cover navigation tools, satellite communication devices, and safety expectations for your group while on self-guided BWCA canoe trips. This includes understanding emergency preparedness, trip communication plans, and how to respond to changing weather or conditions in the BWCA.

Leave No Trace & Wilderness Ethics

Respect for the Boundary Waters is essential. We review Leave No Trace principles, campsite etiquette, waste disposal, and best responsible BWCA travel practices for minimizing impact so future paddlers can enjoy the wilderness as well.

Our Role as Your Complete BWCA Outfitter

Complete Boundary Waters canoe trip outfitting in Ely, Minnesota allows you to focus on the experience while we help manage the logistics. While you remain responsible for your group and decisions in the wilderness, our goal is to ensure you are fully prepared before you enter the Boundary Waters. We are dedicated to be your trusted Ely BWCA outfitter.

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What’s Included in Our Complete BWCA Outfitting Packages

Our complete Boundary Waters outfitting packages are designed to simplify trip preparation by including essential gear, meals, and logistics for self-guided BWCA canoe trips. Packages can be customized based on group size, trip length, and experience level.

Standard Equipment & Trip Support

  • Lightweight canoe options (Kevlar or aluminum)

  • Paddles, PFDs, and portage yokes

  • Canoe packs and portage gear

  • Tents, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags

  • Camp stoves, cookware, and kitchen gear

  • First aid kit and safety essentials

  • Trip planning assistance and BWCA maps

  • Transportation to most western BWCA entry points

  • Bunkhouse lodging before and after your trip

  • Complimentary continental breakfast

Complete BWCA Outfitting Rates (2026)

All rates are per person and vary by group size and trip length. A 3.5% discount is available for cash or check payments.

3–4 Day Trips

  • 2–4 people: from $357 per person

  • 5–7 people: from $315 per person

  • 8+ people: from $338 per person

5–6 Day Trips

  • 2–4 people: from $564 per person

  • 5–7 people: from $543 per person

  • 8+ people: from $533 per person

7+ Day Trips

  • 2–4 people: from $746 per person

  • 5–7 people: from $717 per person

  • 8+ people: from $703 per person

Discounted daily rates available for trips 8 days or longer.

Additional Pricing Notes

  • Aluminum canoes are $10 less per person per day

  • Fishing licenses and BWCA permit fees are not included

  • One-day canoe trips are available with special food and gear packs

  • Rates may vary based on trip customization

Early Season Late Season Special

  • Early Season / Late Season Special:
    Receive 5% off completely outfitted trips beginning before June 1 or after September 1.

  • Discounts do not apply to solo groups or trips shorter than three days. Please ask about non-profit group rates.

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