The classic first-timer's route out of Lake One. Short portages link a chain of open lakes east toward Insula, with easy bail-out options and reliable campsites the whole way.
- Shortest, most forgiving portages in the wilderness
- Big open water on Insula
- Bail out early or push deeper — your call
The route
Lakes on the route are colored by water-quality grade; the entry point is ringed in dark. Toggle the portage layer to see the carries.
The water you'll paddle
| # | Lake | County | Grade | Clarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | One Lake | Lake | C | 7.5 ft |
| 2 | Two Lake | Lake | C | 7.5 ft |
| 3 | Three Lake | Lake | C | 8 ft |
| 4 | Four Lake | Lake | C | 8 ft |
| 5 | Hudson Lake | Lake | C | 8 ft |
| 6 | Insula Lake | Lake | C | 7.5 ft |
Every Boundary Waters lake is under Minnesota's statewide mercury advisory — see eating your catch.
Notable portages near this route
| Portage | Rods | Miles |
|---|---|---|
| Kiana – Insula Portage | 168 | 0.53 |
| Carol – Insula Portage | 53 | 0.17 |
| Powwow Trail | 9 | 0.03 |
Named portages within ~3 km of the route. Source: OpenStreetMap contributors. Carry a detailed paddling map for the full portage sequence.
Where to stay for the The Numbered Lakes Loop
Base your trip in Ely — outfitters, cabins, and lodging near the Lake One.
Top-rated places to stay near Ely
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Frequently Asked Questions
It's rated beginner and typically takes 2–4 days covering roughly ~18 miles. The classic first-timer's route out of Lake One. Short portages link a chain of open lakes east toward Insula, with easy bail-out options and reliable campsites the whole way.
At Entry Point 30 (Lake One), which releases 13 permits per day. Reserve it through Recreation.gov during the May–September quota season.
The lakes on this route — One Lake, Two Lake, Three Lake, Four Lake, Hudson Lake, Insula Lake — carry our A–F water-quality grades, shown below. Remember that every Boundary Waters lake is under Minnesota's statewide mercury fish-consumption advisory regardless of clarity.