Canoe Rentals, Guided Trips, Bait, Tackle & Gear
Your Wilderness Adventure Starts with the Right Outfitter
Your comfort, safety, and overall experience in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) or Quetico Park all come down to one thing: choosing the right outfitter.
At Spirit of the Wilderness, we believe that no two trips — or travelers — are alike. That’s why we provide personalized service and expert outfitting to ensure your adventure is everything you want it to be (and more).
Located in Ely, Minnesota — the canoe capital of the upper Midwest — we’re your one-stop resource for:
• Canoe and kayak rentals
• Guided trips
• Live bait and tackle
• Camping and fishing gear
• Custom trip planning
We Start With You
- What kind of experience are you looking for?
Fishing for walleye, bass, lake trout, or northern pike? - Capturing stunning wildlife and northern landscapes through photography?
- Exploring ancient pictographs, historic sites, and towering pines?
- Or simply immersing yourself in the peace and solitude of the wilderness?
Whether you’re following in the paddle strokes of the French Voyageurs or sticking to a relaxing basecamp, we’ll help you plan a trip tailored to your goals, skill level, and interests.
Choosing the Right Options
You might prefer to:
• Travel solo or in a group
• Use a professional guide
• Include a towboat service to save time
• Fly into Quetico by floatplane and paddle back to Ely
• Accommodate a group member with special medical or physical needs
No matter the challenge or complexity, Spirit of the Wilderness is here to help you plan with confidence.
We’ll guide you through selecting the best:
✔️ Canoe or kayak rental
✔️ Outfitting package
✔️ Trip route and permits
✔️ Gear and supplies — all within your vacation budget
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned paddler, your next great wilderness experience starts right here — with the local experts who know the BWCA and Quetico best.
