Powwow Trail
~3 days · 30.1 mi · moderate · Loop
Quick facts
What the Powwow Trail is known for
Loop in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness south of Isabella Lake, Minnesota, circling through lake country burned in the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. About 27-30 miles, typically 2-3 days with camps at designated BWCAW sites (permit required); expect fire regrowth and rough tread, and check current conditions.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 4,888 ft to 5,404 ft over 30.1 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 7.0 mi · 23%
- Downhill 7.1 mi · 24%
- Flat 15.7 mi · 53%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Powwow Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Powwow Trail in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 30.1 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Powwow Trail?
The Powwow Trail climbs roughly 1,237 ft total — about 41 ft per mile, topping out near 1,660 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.