We spent 4 wonderful days and 3 nights in the BWCA with an amazing guide, Dave Freeman, whose…read moreknowledge, experience, and hospitality made this a trip an experience of a lifetime. Due to his extensive time in the BWCA he knew each river, lake, portage path, and campsite. He carefully chose our daily route based on our needs and the water and weather conditions. Dave taught us about the animals we saw and heard. He also provided tips on canoeing. And each wilderness meal he prepared was delicious. We traveled from California to visit Lake Superior and knew we wanted to experience the beauty of the Boundary Waters wilderness with experienced guides. After some research, we chose Ely Outfitting Company and were so glad we did. The Ely Outfitter team helped us select a route and guided us through the permit process. They were always available for questions or revisions via email and phone calls. We chose the fully guided option as we were flying in and didn't want to hassle with all the equipment. From the thoroughness of the gear provided to the menu that the Ely Outfitting team put together based on our selections, the experience came off without a hitch. We highly recommend booking a trip with the Ely Outfitting Company. We're already considering how and when we might return to travel this magical place with Ely Outfitters.

Ely Outfitting Company should be your only choice for any Boundary Waters Canoe Area adventure…read more I recently booked a fully outfitted, professionally guided trip through EOC, and every aspect was exceptional. The gear was top-of-the-line, well-maintained, and spotlessly clean--tents, sleeping bags, pillows, all of it! The food was plentiful, delicious, and offered a surprising variety for a backcountry trip. What truly sets EOC apart, though, is the people. Amy in the office was kind, responsive, and efficient--before, during, and after our trip. The outfitting team that got us set up and checked us in afterward was equally friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. And then there's our guide, Dave Freeman. I expected a skilled and experienced leader when I heard he was a National Geographic Explorer of the Year--but that title alone doesn't capture how perfect he was for our family. This trip was a memorial journey to honor our dad, and we had some very specific hopes for the experience. Dave truly listened and helped us make every part of it meaningful. He kept us safe, made it fun, and became part of our family along the way... even if he does cheat at Uno. Ely Outfitting Company--and especially Dave Freeman--are the absolute best in the BWCA. I wouldn't go with anyone else.

Been renting cabin for years. Entire family goes there. Bruce takes care of us at the cabin. It…read moreis quiet and easy assess to the lake. Great fishing. They also have camping spaces and RV spaces

My Boy Scout troop had an amazing experience in the Boundary Waters (June 2025) with the fantastic…read morehelp from Canoe Country Outfitters. From taking care of our permits, to preparing our gear, food, and everything, CCO was the best from start to finish. They made planning the trip so easy for my group. The food they provided us for 1 week in the Boundary Waters was great and easy to carry and prepare. At the end of our trip when one bag was left at the final portage, Brian took a boat back and found it for us. What amazing service and care! Thank you to the whole CCO team for organizing our trip.

We stayed in the Sheridan House for two nights and did a morning canoe trip with Jake. As novices,…read morethis was a great and easy trip where you feel a little rugged for a measly city slicker. The location is about 9 minutes from town. He is very knowledgeable and adventurous. He had a lot of good stories, was a good teacher with paddling and was very chill. I would definitely organize another trip with them. Because we are novices and were in a three-person canoe, Jake did all of our brief portages. Safety was the highest priority. He was very mindful for us to not rush the experience.

My sister and I went on 2 half day canoe trips with them. Jake and Tommy were great guides! From…read moreour first contact with them the service was personalized and professional. Not only were our trips beautiful, safe, and fun, but they were educational as well. Jake was very informative about the flora, fauna, and history of the area. We learned a lot more than we expected to! I had high expectations for our trips and I am happy to say that my expectations were exceeded. I would highly recommend this outfitter to anyone looking to spend time in the Boundry waters!

Nothing but positive energy from Ray! Great guy with stellar customer service. Will be back!read more

went in with motor trouble and craig fixed me right up , fast, back on the lake nice great peopleread more

YEAR AFTER YEAR...it keeps getting better!!!…read more I discovered the Vermillion Dam Lodge though a fishing guide and absolutely love it! Owner Ed and his right hand man Marty run an incredible operation accommodating hard core fishermen as myself, families and visitors from all over the world. They host fishing seminars and group events as well. The lake is one of the best small mouth bass, walleye and MUSKY fisheries on the planet. The rooms are very comfortable; everything on the property is tidy and well maintained. VDL is mobility challenged and dog friendly to top it off. World class fishing, friendly staff, gorgeous scenery with eagles literally flying overhead - WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE???

Twenty six family members descended on VDL on an August Saturday for a week stay. We had several…read morecabins of various sizes to meet the needs of grandparents and young cousins from 5 years on up. We had decided to have the resort provide dinner on our arrival after a long drive. It was delicious. The rest of the time we shared cooking details at one of the larger houses. Kitchens are pretty complete for most fare and the Lodge provides some special needs like large serving platters for big meals. We were blessed with mostly nice summer weather. We hired a variety of boats which got most of us out on the water several days. Boats were clean and well maintained. Climax day was two pontoon boats and a speedboat to pull tube rides. We didn't have many experienced fishermen or women. One couple hired a guide one morning which scored a bunch of delicious small walleye. But more important, our guide tried several spots in different parts of the lake and gave us a rewarding tour and understanding of the entire lakes system. For others there were two golf outings at different courses. A rainy day sent some to International Falls and a boat tour of Rainy lake. Others went the other direction to Ely and wildlife. So a modest drive provides some alternatives. But for the most part the resort provides a wide range of activities right on the lake and the property. A real bonus is the resort staff who were always friendly and helpful, a real reason to come back another time.

We found Voyageur North via yellow pages years ago. We've been coming back every few years…read morewithout even checking other outfitters. The new owner maintains the torch-of-excellence. It has to be 25+ years and 2023 was my 7th trip. Every single trip has been spectacular in one way or another, from newsworthy storms to unprecedented heat and cold and wind and even the good weather. here are a few pointers: * Voyageur North are authentic. They're not wearing $80.00 tshirts that say outdoors. The whole crew is out in the BWCA every free minute. Look at their hands. * Decide and work with them on the trip YOU want and they'll make it great. Go full Monty with food or just take ride service. Rent some extra stuff if needed. They'll do it. Summer trips can vary from expedition treks to relaxing base camping to fishing to all else. Example. If you're a cooler, hammock and inflatable toy camper, pick base camp and day trip. We are remote types so they helped us streamline the pack and find a lake for ourselves. * They won't upsell anything. If you need something you might need to ask. * Let them help pick the right permit. Call in winter to make summer plans to get better choice. Popular permits might not be what you need for your trip. * If you're a good fisher, then bonus. You're in good hands. They will do that expert fishermen-talking-codeword stuff. We are amateurs. I followed their expert advanced PhD instructions to capture a giant toothy flapping trophy fish on a pointy, very pointy lure - out of my league. now I know. my bad, not theirs. fish lived thank goodness. My fingers will heal. *these folks are not nags. Follow the rules to keep BWCA weird, rare and beautiful. HOPE THIS HELPS R.

Absolute BEST outfitter in Ely, they take care of you completely, any issues, they will fix them…read more!!!! H I G H L Y recommend for any and ALL your outfitting needs in the BWCAW!!!

Well maintained, super friendly owners, and fun MN themed course. Ice cream, sodas and t-shirts in…read morethe shop. Clean bathroom. We will be back!

This was about forced family fun time. We were on a weekend get away with our teenager. The course…read morewas clean and staff were nice. We laughed, we had fun, and we'd return again!

I absolutely loved my experience here. The bears are so fun to watch and the behind the scenes tour…read moreis a blast. There is a great viewing platform for watching bears outside the tour and they were quite active while we were there. The facilities inside the center were beautiful and informative and well maintained. The staff is so knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions yoy have.

This place is amazing. The experience is fun for all ages. You get a chance to see bears up close…read moreand learn so much about them and the other animals living in MN.