Powwow Trail
The Powwow Trail was constructed in 1978-79 and is located in a remote part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the Superior National Forest.
The trail is shaped like a lollipop beginning with a three mile out-and-back stem, leading to a 25-mile loop. The trail is generally considered challenging due to the trail tread being obscured at times but offers a wilderness day hiking or overnight backpacking experience, a dynamic ecosystem with a variety of vegetative conditions, scenic overlooks, wetlands, and water crossings.
Almost 95% of the trail was burned in the 2011 Pagami Creek Wildfire. The death of most of the overstory has led to open areas that are regenerating. The new, bushier growth, can make the trail challenging in places.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Be prepared for a post fire environment
You will be able to experience first-hand a forest in the process of recovering after a natural wildfire caused by lightning.
- There will be little shade.
- There will be few trees for hanging food packs, bring alternative ways to 'bear proof' your campsite.
- It may seem counterintuitive, but there will not be a lot of wood for campfires, and we ask that you limit your use of what wood there is.
- Nutrients in rotting wood are important for forest regeneration, so you should plan to use a cookstove as much as possible.
Camping
- Before making camp, scan for these dead snags, and do not camp where one could fall on you.
- Standing dead snags are becoming unstable with the passage of time as roots rot.
- There is one designated campsite on the trail at Pose Lake.
Safety
You have the responsibility to be adequately prepared for a trip in the wilderness with
- good footwear,
- ample water,
- emergency supplies, and
- sufficient time to make the trip.
You should be self sufficient: there is no cell phone coverage, and due to the nature of the trail, there is no easy way to get assistance in, nor any easy way to get people out in emergencies.
Travel
- A compass and accurate map are essential.
- Bring reliable maps. Maps can be purchased at some Forest Service offices, area businesses and outfitters, or directly from the map companies.
- If you get lost, don’t panic. Sit down, relax and think. Chances are that you will figure out your location in a few minutes.
- If you plan to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigating, be sure you also bring a map and compass as a back up in case your GPS unit fails.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for every kind of weather situation.
This trail is open year-round.
You will need a permit to enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
- BWCAW entry point #86.
No potable water available – lake water must be treated.
When visiting, please remember
- Trails are for non-motorized use only.
- Camping 150 feet from the trail or a body of water is allowed.
- Only use facilities that are provided for fires, tents, and waste.
- Do not make additional fire rings, tent pads, or cat holes.
- You will need to pack out your garbage.
- Nine people per site limit, group sites are available at some sites.
Pets/Dogs
- Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife.
Make sure to thoroughly read the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness page and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip Planning Guide for tips on wilderness trip preparation.
Prior to reserving your permit, please also review the following:
Address: 7355 West Hwy 61 Tofte, MN 55615
Phone: (218) 663-8060
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Wednesday - Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, providing full services, open federal holidays when they land on a Wednesday through Sunday. Closed for all other federal holidays.
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
From Isabella
- Travel on County 1, turn onto FR 172 (Wanless Road).
- From 172, go north on FR 369.
- Veer left on FR 373, then right on FR 377.
- Park in the Isabella Lake Entry Point parking lot.
The trailhead is not the same as the portage to Isabella Lake. The Powwow Trail trailhead is from the southwestern end of the parking lot.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service