Hudson Lake Loop

Overview

The Hudson Lake Loop is a Boundary Waters route that begins and ends at Entry Point 30 on Lake One. From the well-traveled Numbered Lakes, it works outward through a chain of smaller wilderness lakes to Hudson Lake, the loop's farthest point, then returns by way of Lake Four and back down the Numbered Lakes corridor. Forming a complete circle rather than retracing one path, the trip offers steady variety from start to finish.

The early miles pass through Lake Two and Lake Three, interconnected waters with island-dotted shorelines and short connecting portages. Beyond the chain, the route threads Horseshoe, Brewis, Harbo, North Wilder, and Hudson lakes, a sequence of quieter waters linked by modest carries and narrow passages. Forested shorelines frame most of the paddling, mixing compact lakes with slightly more open water. The return through Lake Four gives the loop a natural rhythm, moving from busier entry waters into more secluded country and back.

This loop suits paddlers with some tripping experience who are comfortable with frequent portages and steady lake-to-lake travel. Moderate daily distances leave room for a relaxed pace, side exploration, or longer stops. Groups that prefer to keep moving will find the interconnected layout easy to follow, while those who value flexibility can shift their nights to match their energy. Overall, it offers a well-rounded sample of classic Boundary Waters scenery within a manageable circuit.

Route Highlights

• Loop route beginning and ending at Entry Point 30 on Lake One
• Quiet wilderness lakes linked by short connecting portages
• Mix of compact lakes and open-water paddling
• Flexible camping opportunities across the circuit

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Lake One → Horseshoe Lake

Travel the Numbered Lakes chain through Lake Two and Lake Three, settling into the route's short portages before reaching the quieter water of Horseshoe Lake.

Day 2

Horseshoe Lake → North Wilder Lake

Continue through Brewis and Harbor lakes, following narrow connecting passages into the more secluded country around North Wilder Lake.

Day 3

North Wilder Lake → Lake Four

Paddle to Hudson Lake, the loop's farthest point, with time to explore before crossing toward Lake Four to begin the return leg.

Day 4

Lake Four → Lake One

Retrace the Numbered Lakes corridor through Lake Three and Lake Two, closing the loop back at the Entry Point 30 landing on Lake One.