BWCA Portage 885

Climbs briefly up out of Fall Lake. As expected when following an old railroad grade, the trail is very flat over the entire course. Did this with sled dogs in the winter and there were very few surprises and the trail was breathtakingly scenic, especially in the stretch were it traces the eastern shoreline of Muskeg Lake. However, even in winter, I could surmise at least 3 separate spots along the 4 mile course that would be flooded or exceedingly muddy in warmer months. Bugs would likely be a major issue then as well.

Nice and flat to Ella Hall. Definitely doesn't see a lot of summer traffic, but it gets busy again in the winter. Past Ella Hall, the portage is frequently flooded so it can be tedious to press on.

I did this portage a long time ago, it was actually really nice. I think it was a road before the boundary waters were a thing. It certainly is long. Also, if your map says 4 mile portage, it really only goes to ella hall and mud, so please don't try going further. You will be sorely disappointed. And just sore, that would be a lot of portaging in one go.