Hi everyone.
I was directed here by r/Canoeing. They’ve already offered some advice.
I’m a long time canoeist but I’ve never had a chance to visit the BWCA…till now. I’m coming with some friends who’ve made the trip made times (they have bear containers and filtration systems).
Currently, I’m geared up for weekend canoeing overnights and backpacking/car camping. For further reference, I’m scout leader and have a large amount of gear (tents, first aid, backpacking stove, etc.). Cotton is rotten and all that.
I’m looking for recommendations on upgrades and special considerations for the BWCA in August.
I’m not sure I want to permethrin my clothes particularly my shirt since they are camp/work out clothes. Someone recommended using permethrin on my tent but I worry that will ruin the waterproofing.
I’m debating about getting my own pfd since I teach paddlecraft skills to youth and adults (as well as go canoeing 2-3 times a year). I’ve just been delaying…
Edit to add: Entry point 25 at Moose Lake; 5-6 day outing. Exact plan is not defined yet.
My current gear list: Duluth portage pack; whisperlite stove; exped air mattress with schnozzle; ozark mt two-man backpacking tent, lots of smart wool socks, first aid kit with tick tool, fire starting box (matches and ferrocerium), mess kit, backpacking chair, 3-season bag with a waterproof stuff sack
Known needs: water shoes, pfd,
My buddy has: bear container, gravity filter system