Books I have found interesting or useful.
Lake by lake detailed descriptions of routes
in the western region of the BWCA.
Lake by lake detailed descriptions of 70
routes in the eastern region of the BWCA.
Lake by lake detailed descriptions of 73
routes in Quetico.
Probably the best single book I have on back-country
cooking. The only one with an eye specifically
on canoe camping and the can and bottle ban
in the BWCA and Quetico.
Another good collection of recipes that are
workable for the BWCA and Quetico.
Good collection of workable recipes and tips
on cooking in the wilderness.
Lots of variety from a few basic ingredients.
The definitive book about flat-water and
white-water travelling, by famed Canadian
canoeist Bill Mason, newly revised by his
son Paul. Beyond mere technique, "Path
of the Paddle" reflects Bill Mason's
love and joy in canoeing and traveling through
canoe country. A must read.
Veteran wilderness canoeist Cliff Jacobson
discusses all aspects of canoe camping in
the BWCA. Possibly the best single source
of information for planning a canoe trip,
especially in the BWCA/Quetico area.
Best ways to pitch tents and tarps as well
as discussion on various emergency shelters
using materials found on-site.
Practical advice on the most useful knots
for the canoeist and camper.
Complete discussion of hygiene for the outdoors.
A lighthearted yet serious treatment of a
subject with which all wilderness travellers
must deal -- even those who claim that theirs
"don't stink." Highly recommended.
More tips and techniques on being comfortably
"at home" on wilderness canoe trips.
Down-to-earth tips and information on planning
a trip, organizing, packing, clothing, equipment,
and food planning.
A very good treatment of the special hygiene
considerations of female wilderness travellers.
A very good read for the wife contemplating
her first night without porcelain and running
water.
"How to prepare for, survive,and even
enjoy harsh weather camping." Good tips
that make even non-harsh weather camping
more comfortable.
My favorite wilderness author is Sigurd F. Olson. He was one of the great environmentalists of the twentieth century, an award winning conservation activist, and best selling author. In his writings, he had a unique ability to capture the feel of the north woods. The following Olson books are all currently in reprint by the University of Minnesota Press:
The authorized biography of Sigurd Olson
A reflection of the author's solo journey
of discovery of canoe country and his inner
self.
"Reflections for the back-country traveler."
From the back cover: "While on a four-day
canoe trip in the Boundary Waters of northern
Minnesota, Andrew Rogness wrestles with his
vocation, his relationship to his family,
his feelings about aging, his feelings about
what it means to be a man, and his experience
of God."
The definitive history of the border country,
from the fur trade era to the opening of
the iron ranges and the logger's way of life.
The definitive history of the men of the
fur trade.
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Page last updated Oct. 18, 2005