Canoe River Routes

Washburn County offers many opportunities for canoeists. The Namekagon River is part of the National Scenic Waterway system managed by the National Parks Service. Canoeing opportunities also exist on the Yellow and parts of the Totogatic River.

Birchwood Canoe trails:

Washburn County has two primitive canoe routes within the Birchwood canoe unit, six miles north of Birchwood. Both routes are in a primitive area with little to no development and provide a unique opportunity for a quiet, back country experience. The canoe route areas lie within heavily forested, rolling topography with a high density of small glacial lakes. These lakes are land locked deep soft water lakes with steep banks and wooded shores. Bass and Panfish are abundant. A canoe portage and trail system has been marked to guide canoeists.

Sawmill Lake Primitive Canoe Route:

This canoe route begins at the Sawmill Lake campground. The portage trail accesses 9 separate lakes, with most portages less than 100 yards. The lakes along this route are relatively deep, with maximum depths of up to 40 feet. Bass and Panfish are abundant, however many of these lakes are prone to winterkill. Of particular interest is the presence of Green Sunfish.

Click here for Sawmill Canoe Route Map
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Loyhead Lake Primitive Canoe Route:

This canoe route is located 7 miles north of Birchwood. The route begins at Loyhead Lake at the boat landing on the Birchwood Fire Lane. The portage trail accesses 7 separate lakes with most portages less than 200 yards.

Click here for Loyhead Lake Canoe Route Map
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