Canoe Outfitting Services
Our complete canoe trip outfitting packages includes the best equipment, trail meals and entry point transportation. Think of it as an all inclusive package. You bring your personal gear; we provide Alumacraft or lightweight Souris River Kevlar canoes, Eureka tents, Duluth packs, sleeping bags, a complete kitchen, a food pack for every day of your trip, your permit and a ride to the landing.
Complete BWCA outfitting services
Partial Outfitting and canoe rentals
Outfitting rates and reservations
Youth Groups
Organizing a canoe trips for a large group can be a big task. Let us assist you. Each season we outfit large groups from churches, scout troops and schools. Providing exceptional service to youth groups is a trademark of Duane's Canoe Outfitters, we have been doing it for a very long time. We have return customers each year that first visited the BWCAW as part of a youth group outfitted by Duane's. Often, they are bringing their families to experience the wilderness. Our rates for youth groups are extremely attractive, we even offer a leader allowance. We are also in very close proximity to Birch Lake, just outside of the BWCAW. Large groups often choose to use Forest Service Campsites on this wilderness type lake where permits and user fees are not necessary. Contact us today to begin planning your wilderness adventure!
Youth group canoe trip rates
Trip Planning
Planning a canoe trip can be a big job. Let us put our expertise to work for you. We would be happy to send you a free route guide and trip planning map. We invite you to look through our brochure, call or write with any questions, and then complete and return your reservation. We'll send you a letter of confirmation, and a copy of your reservation form along with information about what personal gear to bring, location details and canoe camping and fishing tips. Feel free to call with any questions along the way. We'd be happy to suggest an entry point based on your trip objectives.
Boundary Waters trip planning guide
BWCA camping tips and packing list
BWCA fishing tips
Permits and Entry Points
Overnight trips into the BWCAW from May 1 to September 30 need a permit for a specific entry point and date, and permits are released on Recreation.gov on the last Wednesday of January. As a Forest Service cooperator we issue permits at our base, and our entry point transportation covers Fall Lake, Moose Lake, Mudro, Lake One, the South Kawishiwi River, Gabbro Lake, Isabella Lake and more.
BWCAW permits, user fees and entry points
Why Paddlers Choose Duane's
We are a family-run outfitter, and we spend real time with every group. Your orientation covers your route on large, easy to read maps, campsite selection, paddling, portaging, bear-safe food storage and fishing tips for the lakes you will visit. Our trail meals are generous and simple to cook, our bunkhouse and Finnish sauna are waiting when you come off the water, and our rates are kept affordable so more people can experience the Boundary Waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Duane's Canoe Outfitters located?
At 3145 Highway 21, Babbitt, Minnesota, 4.5 miles west of Babbitt and a short drive south of Ely. Get directions.
What is included in complete outfitting?
Canoe, paddles and life jackets, tents, packs, sleeping bags, cooking gear, all trail meals, your permit and transportation to most area entry points.
When is the best time for a Boundary Waters canoe trip?
May, June and September offer the best fishing and fewer people; July and August bring the warmest weather and swimming.
Do you outfit scout troops and church groups?
Yes. Non-profit youth groups receive special rates and one free leader trip for every seven paid trips.