Way Of The Wilderness Canoe Outfitters

We used this outfitter last summer and will not be going back. We arrived and stayed in one of the bunk house the first night. The walls were blood stained from squashed mosquitos and the steps going upstairs were incredibly steep and unstable. In the morning it took over an hour to get the launch boat ready even though there were no other groups going in at that time. When we finally arrived at our drop off point they took off as fast as they could. Less than 5 minutes into paddling the middle seat in our 3 man canoe snapped! Upon inspection we saw that it had been held temporarily together with a bungee cord! After it snapped it was rendered unusable for the remainder of the trip. This made for a long trip for my daughter who sat with the remains of the seat digging into her back as she sat on the bottom of the canoe trying to paddle. We arrived at our pick up spot with plenty of time to spare, however that was unnecessary as they arrived 2 hours later than our prescheduled time. This left us waiting and wondering if they were even going to come at all. When we approached the owner about the broken seat his initial response was “I won’t charge you for the repair.” After further explaining what a burden it was for the entire trip he reluctantly gave us a slight discount and sent us on our way. This experience from start to finish held stark contrast with the services we’ve received elsewhere in years prior.

There are very limited options for lodging at the end of The Gunflint. We were a group of two couples, so we wanted a place with separate sleeping areas. We also wanted a shower in the unit. The Chalet was the only option for many miles around. I let them know we would be arriving late. A note was stapled to the porch of the office with a map to where I was supposed to go. One sleeping area was upstairs, and one in the living room downstairs. There was no door for privacy, but we couldn't see our friends unless we went downstairs. There were two twin and one queen mattresses upstairs and the same downstairs. The mattresses were old but comfortable. The shower worked but leaked water all over the bathroom floor. Sheets and blankets were not provided. Everything was clean. We didn't care about the lackluster accommodations because we were about to spend a week in the wilderness. It cost $110.In the morning I went to the office to check out. The guy was nice, and helpful in getting us our BWCA permit and directing us to getting fishing licenses. Coronavirus had the cafe shut down so we couldn't have breakfast there. I had been to their little store a few years ago, where they sell a variety basic camping and canoeing supplies.So, if you are looking for functional lodging with zero glitz or glam before you go into the wilderness, this is a great place to stay. But if you are looking for a vacation spot with nice accommodations, I recommend elsewhere.

Decent canoe for $30 a day. They are understaffed right now so that's something to keep in mind. The girl working (didn't get her name) was super friendly and helpful

Out first Boundary Waters experience started at the Way of the Wilderness. If your going to do the BWCA you need to start with an outfitter, at a minimum to get your entry permit. But we used Mark (the owner) to also ferry us out to our campsite. Definitely the way to go! At the end of the Gun Flint Trail, things are pretty simple, but it’s the last civilization you’ll see until you return! Don’t miss the breakfast at the attached Cafe; was awesome!

Great staff and food! definitely looking forward to coming back!!