Returning to the BWCA. Photo submitted by Aubrey Helmuth-Miller

News

The Boundary Waters: Still Coming Back

By Aubrey Helmuth-Miller

February 20, 2024

“When was the last time you lay on the ground and gazed up at the sky while listening to the heartbeat of Mother Earth?” – Doug Good Feather, Think Indigenous

THE BOUNDARY WATERS – Every time I push my canoe into these waters and leave modern life behind for a stretch, there’s something within me that comes alive. Sometimes it takes a day. Or two. Or even three, before my spirit settles in deep. When it does, it is bliss.

Putting into words the allure of the Boundary Waters is like trying to speak water, or sing wind. I’m sure you have your own reasons. I offer stories from three significant trips in my life that illuminate what keeps me coming back to the BWCA. Whether you’ve been on dozens of trips or are planning your first, I hope these stories help stoke your Boundary Waters fire. The first story shared is from my very first trip. I was 16…

To continue reading, login below or sign up here.

Other Recent Articles

Mining Exploration Plan Gets Green Light Near the BWCA Wilderness

Mining Exploration Plan Gets Green Light Near the BWCA Wilderness

Dean DeBeltz, Twin Metals VP of external affairs and project operations, with core samples in a Twin Metals core storage facility. Submitted photoBIRCH LAKE – They can keep looking for copper, nickel, and other precious metals. That was the message from the Minnesota...

Support Local News Covering the Boundary Waters Region

Support Local News Covering the Boundary Waters Region

Paddling between borders on Crooked Lake. Photo Pam Wright for P&PBOUNDARY WATERS – We’ve covered a lot of news this year across the Boundary Waters region. Remote Area Border Crossing permits. Towboat usage in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Changes to...