About Us

Duane's Canoe Outfitters is celebrating 50 years of providing quality outfitting services to visitors of the Boundary Waters Canoe Areas Wilderness. Our approach is straightforward. We combine friendly and efficient service, the highest quality equipment and the finest trail foods to accomplish our goal of a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience for each guest. We have become to be known as "the outfitter that cares", by guests that return year after year and recommend us to their friends. We feel that everyone should be able enjoy the experience and benefits of a Boundary Waters canoe trip, so we really work at keeping our rates affordable. We invite you to review our services and rates. We feel that we provide an exceptional adventure travel value for groups of all sizes.

Your Hosts

Your hosts, the Hanson family would like to extend a cordial invitation to visit the Boundary Waters this summer. As guests, you will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the north woods and learn about Minnesota hospitality first hand.

Facilities

Our canoe base is located upon five tree covered acres at the edge of the Superior National Forest. Our location south of Ely is convenient to services, recreation and all western BWCWA entry points. We are proud of our clean, well kept amenities that include the following services.

Lodging

We invite you to stay in our comfortably remodeled bunkhouse before or after your trip. Hot showers, towels and use of our summer kitchen and Finnish sauna are included. Rates are $8.00 per person for completely outfitted guests, and $10.00 per night for partially outfitted guests. We can also assist you with arrangements at area motels, or campgrounds. All lodging rates subject to 3% tax.

Store

We a carry a complete line of camping equipment, fishing tackle, and canoeing supplies. We also stock Richmoor and Backpacker Pantry Foods. If your are shopping for a canoe, check our prices on Alumacraft canoes. Stop by on your way to or from the BWCAW for supplies, maps or souvenirs.

Superior National Forest Canoe Trips

The Superior National Forest provides many wilderness camping opportunities outside of the BWCAW. Area Lakes such as Birch Lake provide wilderness camp sites without the need for permits and user fees. We can assist you in trip planning.

BWCA Cooperator Statement:

We are a Cooperator with the USDA Forest Service under the Superior National Forest. We issue permits into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. As a Cooperator, we are an equal opportunity service provider.