Tofte to Homer Lake (Entry Point 31, Sawbill Lake)
While Sawbill Lake is a well-known entry, venturing east from there towards Homer Lake offers a less congested experience with very reasonable portages.
Minnesota · United States · Season: Late spring through early fall
Overview
While Sawbill Lake is a well-known entry, venturing east from there towards Homer Lake offers a less congested experience with very reasonable portages. The route takes you through a series of smaller, picturesque lakes like Beth and Grace, culminating in the beautiful Homer Lake. This area feels more intimate than the larger central BWCA lakes, with narrower channels and a stronger sense of being deep in the forest. It's a great option for those looking for a quieter, more reflective trip. The portages are generally short and mostly flat. Nearest town is Tofte on the North Shore. Ideal for a 3-5 day trip. The proximity to the North Shore makes it an appealing option for combining with other activities. Expect fewer people than many other routes, making it a good choice for families or those new to multi-day paddling. Wind can pick up on Homer Lake, but the surrounding terrain offers good protection.
Planning notes
Where: Minnesota, United States Best season: Late spring through early fall Good for: Canoeing, Camping, Fishing Featured on: Top 10 Flatwater Canoe Routes: Boundary Waters Multi-day (#7) Access point: Tofte, MN 55615, USA Check current permits, closures and fire restrictions with the managing agency before you commit to dates.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Tofte to Homer Lake (Entry Point 31, Sawbill Lake), United States.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 47.5738, -90.8363
- Latitude (DMS)
- 47° 34′ 25.6″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 90° 50′ 10.5″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Tofte to Homer Lake (Entry Point 31, Sawbill Lake), not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.