Lake of the Woods cruise

[William Thomas]

As are many of you , I am thinking about this summer's potencial cruise destinations. The last few years we have spent a few months in the summer on the great Lakes ,(Apostle Islands,Northern Lk Michigan,North Channel, Northern Lake Huron) ,and really have had fun and adventure.
Over the years I have always thought that those huge Lakes in N. Minnesota/southern Ontario would make a great adventure Cruise.
Both Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake sure look interesting.
We trailer our CW 28 up North from Phx. , so we like to stay a while. Also an option in that area to do Isle Royale as well.
Anyone have experience on Lake of the Woods or Rainy Lake?

Thanks for any info you may have!
Bill T.

 

[Scrivma1]

Agree, Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake look attractive, as does Isle Royal. The southern part of Rainy Lake is part of Voyageurs National Park. For close comparison we have gone for a week in Voyageur National Park, far southern portion, put in at Ash River, traversed Namakan Lake, Sand Point Lake, thru the Narrows down to Crane Lake. Spent one night in old Hotel- Kettle Falls, lots of history, tilted floor, shared bathroom, room and food ok, location excellent. They will portage smaller boats up to Rainy, believe 20 ft. and under. Supplies and fuel limited as I remember to Kettle Falls, Crane Lake Houseboats, not sure about diesel, we were gas in 22ft Crownline cuddy cabin. Very beautiful in July, not too many folks, campsites with tables, fire ring, bear box, no outhouses, short docks (for fishing boats and tents mainly- we made do), plus tie up spots for houseboats. Believe have to reserve ahead now, when we did it 5 years first come/first serve, nominal charge if I remember with $ in can. We did not anchor, but can find many protected coves. Lots of rocks, many have lost lower units, but all we had was a paper chart, car GPS unit showing general location, and first mate spotter on bow when concerned, no problems. Some markers, but not all hazards and channels marked. Fishing was ok, big horse flies in some spots so bring the flyswatter. Have hiked Isle Royal years ago, lies about 20 miles off Grand Portage, no dogs allowed via wolf population decline. Have to register and permit boat camping, main marina/lodge at one end, forest service dock on the other, lots and lots of coves, very cool. For Rainy and lake of the Woods, no experience but need to be aware of Canadian border, and set up to cross and check in with passports, believe can do by radio/phone. Hopefully this gives you some idea, can dig up some pics I think of Voyageur trip, I would do all three you mention anytime if resources/time allowed!


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