Iowa Boundary Waters (When You Do Not Have Time For Minnesota BWCA)

It has been much too long since I last paddled in the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota. Even with so much time between me and the BWCA, I can hear the mournful cry of loons, see the pitcher plants in the shallow wetlands, and smell a campfire warming up for a meal of fresh fish. My imagination takes me north very quickly and with great detail.

Since this weekend is not long enough for me to drive to the real Boundary Waters, I made due with my Iowa-style Boundary Waters - I paddled on the river just south of the boundary near the Bremer/Chickasaw County Line. No, the fishing isn’t as good. Yes, there are boats. Another yes…there are more people (this is hardly wilderness). Still paddling the Wapsipinicon River is pretty, relaxing, and doable when there is not time to drive almost a day to the north.

I really do enjoy this river, as do many others!