Snowbank Lake Trail and Backcountry Sites

Wood Lake Fire - Updated 10/1/2024

On Tuesday, September 10, 2024, around 11:00 a.m. a fire was detected on an island of Wood Lake, which is located north of County Road 18, within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) of the Superior National Forest (NF). The fire is located in Township 64, Range 10, Section 26 on National Forest System Lands. 

More information is available in the News Release.


These three sites are backcountry sites:  near-wilderness single party sites accessible only by foot or boat. The sites are available on a first come, first served basis. There are 3 sites on this lake, each with a fire grate, a latrine, and possibly a picnic table.

Access to the 3 sites on this lake is a boat ramp on the South Central part of this lake. This lake is also a enrty point into the BWCAW, when traveling in the Wilderness you need a permit.

A few reminders:

  • Hang food packs.
  • Put your fire out each time you leave your campsite.
  • Treat or boil all water.
  • Wash yourself and dishes at least 150ft from any body of water.
  • Pack out all garbage.
  • Leave No Trace.

Use a Forest Visitor Map to locate campsites and accesses.  This lake may be a part of or has portage or waterway access into the BWCAW.  When portaging or paddling out of this lake and into another you’ll want to check to see if you’ll be entering into the BWCAW.  Permits are always required while traveling in the BWCAW.  If traveling for the day by paddle or foot you can use a self issued permit found at any Ranger District office or at the kiosk at the official entry point.  Motor powered watercraft are permitted only on designated lakes. When traveling overnight or using a motor, see the BWCAW page.

At a Glance

Permit Info: A portion of this Lake is within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. When traveling on this lake, or anywhere inside the BWCAW, you need a permit. For day use only into this area you need a self issued permit (note: most lakes do not allow motor use). From May 1st to September 30th if you plan to spend any nights in the Wilderness you’ll need a permit from the quota system. More information can be found on this website at www.recreation.gov
Restrictions: • 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.
Closest Towns: Ely, MN
Water: Boil or filter water.
Operated By: USDA Forest Service
Information Center: Kawishiwi Ranger District Email | Call | Address | Webpage

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Backpacking

The Snowbank Trail system incorporates several loops with some dispersed camping sites.  It also shares some trail with the Kekekabic Trail.