Marathon Lake Campsite - Powwow Trail

- RJMH+G9, Ely, MN 55731

For Minnesota's adventurous backpackers and lovers of deep wilderness, the Marathon Lake Campsite on the Powwow Trail represents a unique, rugged challenge deep within the Superior National Forest, near the Ely region. This is not a typical recreation area; it is a primitive, designated location along one of the most challenging hiking trails in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The Powwow Trail is renowned for offering an unvarnished wilderness experience, having been severely impacted by the 1999 blowdown and the 2007 Pagami Creek wildfire.

The Marathon Lake site itself is a small, primitive stopover along the Powwow Trail’s 25-mile loop, situated in an actively regenerating post-fire landscape. The character of this campsite, much like the trail it sits on, is defined by its resilience and remoteness. It offers a glimpse into the dynamic cycle of the boreal forest, where new growth pushes through the remnants of a dramatic fire. This location serves primarily as a resting point for those completing the demanding multi-day loop, providing a scenic view of Marathon Lake—a quiet body of water central to the trail's western section. For local hikers seeking an authentic, challenging Minnesota wilderness experience that requires true self-sufficiency and dedication, the Marathon Lake Campsite is a worthy objective.

The Marathon Lake Campsite is an interior stop along the renowned Powwow Trail, located deep within the Superior National Forest and the central region of the BWCAW. The trailhead access is shared with BWCA Entry Point #86, which is typically accessed via a network of Forest Roads (like the Tomahawk Road/FR 377) from the direction of Ely or Isabella, MN.

Address Reference: RJMH+G9, Ely, MN 55731, USA. This GPS coordinate identifies the general wilderness area, not a drivable location.

Accessibility: This site is not accessible by road or canoe; it is a backpacking campsite only. To reach Marathon Lake Campsite, hikers must first enter the BWCAW via Entry Point 86 (Powwow Trailhead) and hike approximately 6-7 miles along the main trail (the "stick" and part of the "loop") to reach the lake's vicinity. The trail itself is widely considered one of the most rugged and difficult in the BWCA, often featuring rough terrain, numerous blowdowns, brushy sections, and mandatory wetland/beaver dam crossings. This location is designed for experienced backpackers with strong navigation skills and an awareness of the post-fire environment.

The Marathon Lake Campsite is an example of extreme primitive camping, reflecting its challenging location deep inside a protected wilderness area. In contrast to more established campgrounds, this site offers minimal human-made infrastructure.

• Permit Requirement: An overnight hiking permit for BWCA Entry Point #86 (Powwow Trail) is required for any overnight stay, though Powwow Trail permits are unlimited during the quota season (May 1–September 30).
• Camping Infrastructure: The site is a former designated backpacking site, which may not be officially maintained. Visitors report the presence of a rock-formed fireplace (a fire ring), but it may lack a permanent steel fire grate.
• Waste Disposal: No Latrine: Unlike many BWCA sites, the Marathon Lake Campsite explicitly does not have a wilderness latrine (privy). Hikers must practice rigorous Leave No Trace ethics, including digging a cathole (6-8 inches deep) for human waste at least 200 feet from the trail and water sources.
• Water Source (Challenging): The lake serves as the water source. However, due to its shoreline, access can be difficult. The shores are often muddy, and low water levels can make getting to clean water challenging, requiring filtering or treatment of water gathered from the lake.
• No Facilities: There is no potable water, electricity, trash disposal, or cell service. Hikers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying all necessary food and gear, and packing out all trash.

The appeal of the Marathon Lake Campsite lies not in its comforts, but in the challenging nature of the journey and the profound wilderness experience it provides.

• Post-Fire Wilderness Ecosystem: The area offers a unique perspective on ecological recovery following the Pagami Creek Fire. Hikers traverse a landscape of regenerating forest, experiencing the dynamic growth of new jack pines and mixed forest amid the remnants of the fire, though this also means less shade and limited campfire wood.
• True Backpacking Solitude: As one of the most remote and challenging hiking trails in the BWCA, the Powwow Trail, and subsequently the Marathon Lake Campsite, offers an exceptionally high degree of solitude and isolation, far from high-traffic canoe routes.
• Scenic Stopover: The campsite provides a necessary and beautiful break with views of Marathon Lake, a peaceful body of water reflecting the boreal landscape.
• Connection to The Powwow Trail: This site is a key marker on the 30-mile 'lollipop' loop, serving as a vital stop for hikers pressing on toward other key landmarks like the Diana Lake bridge to the west or the Wye intersection to the east.
• Wildlife and Habitat: The rugged landscape is a natural habitat for iconic Northwoods wildlife, including moose, bear, and various bird species, offering excellent opportunities for unobtrusive viewing.

For official information regarding the Powwow Trail, trail conditions, and required permits, contact the Forest Service office managing the area.

Superior National Forest - Tofte Ranger District (Nearest Managing Office for Powwow Trail):

Address: 7355 West Highway 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Phone: (218) 663-0012

Permit Reservations: Overnight permits for BWCA Entry Point #86 (Powwow Trail) are self-issued or can be reserved through Recreation.gov during the quota season (May 1–September 30).

For experienced Minnesota locals, particularly those who have already conquered canoe routes and are looking for the next level of wilderness immersion, the Marathon Lake Campsite on the Powwow Trail is the perfect challenge. It is an opportunity to engage with the most demanding and rewarding aspects of Minnesota's natural landscape.

This site’s suitability lies in its authenticity as a pure backpacking destination. It demands respect for the land, meticulous planning, and adherence to the most stringent Leave No Trace ethics—skills Minnesotans pride themselves on. Hiking the Powwow Trail and reaching a site like Marathon Lake is not merely a camping trip; it is an intimate conversation with a recovering ecosystem, offering unparalleled solitude and a profound sense of accomplishment. It’s a chance to fully rely on your own skills, navigate a rugged, fire-scarred landscape, and truly disconnect, returning with a deeper appreciation for the wild heart of the North Star State.

Marathon Lake Campsite - Powwow Trail

RJMH+G9, Ely, MN 55731, USA