BWCA Bound

Spring and fall are all about fishing and hunting in the Lerson home. However, we usually reserve one vacation a summer for something more mainstream, like a trip to Disney, SeaWorld, or Branson to name a few of our favorites. This summer, however, we decided we were in no mood to vacation with pandemic rules. Seems impossible, right? I mean, word on the street is they’re even requiring masks when visiting some state and national park attractions. Why on Earth would I want to subject my family to such extremism. So, where is this true freedom from the pandemic? Well, one such place is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Northern Minnesota. If you’re Canadian, it is just adjacent to Quetico.

Sure, we will have to wear masks when we check in at the ranger station and go through the “Leave no trace” routine. But that’s it. After that, the masks stay in the car, never to be seen again! Well... at least for the length of our stay in the wilderness.

To do something like this, you have to love the outdoors. So much so that you’re willing to be away from electricity, water and even a solid shelter for days. It’s always an adjustment the first day or two, but by the end of it, we’ve forgotten how much these things rule our lives. My wife isn’t as much of an outdoorsman as the rest of us, but even she is attracted to this place for this very reason. Add to that the immense beauty and tranquility, like nothing you’ve ever seen before, and even she can be sold on this place being the replacement to our typical family summer vacations.

If you’ve never been here, you need to go check it out. If you’re intimidated, there are places that will outfit you with all the necessary gear. If you’re still not sure, you can even find some guided trips. But no matter what your style, just make sure you add this gem to your bucket list. You can thank me later.