Island River Canoe Route

Overview

The Island River Canoe Route begins and ends at Entry Point 34, where the Island River enters the Boundary Waters. The route follows the river downstream to Isabella Lake before returning upstream by the same path, an out-and-back built around moving water rather than a chain of portage-linked lakes.

The Island River is narrow and twisting as it winds through low, marshy terrain on its way to Isabella Lake, a recognized Superior National Forest canoe route in its own right rather than a connector between two bigger destinations. No portages interrupt the river itself on this stretch, so the current does the work that a carry would elsewhere. Isabella Lake opens up at the far end, holding a wide mix of fish for a Boundary Waters lake, including largemouth bass alongside the more usual walleye and northern pike.

This route suits paddlers who want a short trip built around river paddling rather than portaging, including groups newer to the Boundary Waters. Water levels shape how it paddles more than distance does — a low-water stretch can slow the current's help considerably, so it's worth checking conditions before setting out. Isabella Lake has room to camp at the far end for those extending it into an overnight rather than a day trip.

Route Highlights

• The narrow, winding current of the Island River, with no portages to interrupt the paddling
• Isabella Lake's mixed fishery, including largemouth bass alongside walleye and northern pike
• A recognized Superior National Forest canoe route built around river paddling rather than a lake chain