The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), of Minnesota, and the Quetico Provincial Park of Ontario, Canada, offer a variety of wilderness canoe trip opportunities. Selecting the proper clothing for your adventure will ensure a comfortable trip no matter what Mother Nature brings.

The following items are recommended for all trips:

Today's outdoor technology offers a vast array of light weight, water proof and water-resistant clothing items. Over the many years of canoe trips, we have found that layering our clothing offers the optimum protection and warmth against the elements. And although you do not need to go out and purchase a whole new wardrobe for your wilderness excursion, the following items may offer additional peace of mind and comfort.

The most important item you take along on your trip will be your rain suit. Your rain suit will not only protect you from rain, but also act as a wind resistant layer and an additional layer of warmth in cold weather.

A medium weight Polar-Tec or Polar fleece jacket and pants offers warm and comfort for spring & fall trips. Choose light weight Polar-Tec for June through August trips. Polypropylene garments offer a fantastic wicking system that assures dry skin and warmth. Wool socks, fingerless gloves and sweaters also provide extra warmth even when they become damp. Cotton is not recommended as it tends to hold moisture close to the skin causing a chilling effect.

Hiking boots or work shoes that are water resistant keep feet warm and dry when portaging. On spring and fall trips, when keeping yourself dry and warm is essential, we choose to wear knee high rubber boots in place of the hiking boots. (High water levels in the spring and low water levels in the fall can create challenges in portaging.)

Even in our northern climate, don't forget sun protection; 15 or 30 SPF sunscreen, a large billed cap, light weight long sleeve shirts and light weight pants are important. The top of your knees can get awfully red after a day of canoeing!

Thanks to Canadian Border Outfitters for sharing this information on Boundary Waters.