The Snowbank and Disappointment Lakes Loop is a pristine wilderness backpacking route through Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). This 23.5-mile loop traverses rugged glacially-carved terrain, connecting a series of crystal-clear lakes through dense boreal forest. Unlike most BWCA routes that require canoes, this trail can be hiked entirely on foot, making it a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness without watercraft.
The loop offers quintessential North Woods scenery: towering white pines, rocky outcroppings, serene lakes reflecting endless sky, and the haunting call of loons echoing across the water. With 60 designated campsites along the route, backpackers have excellent flexibility in planning daily mileage. The trail is best suited for intermediate to advanced backpackers comfortable with wilderness navigation, as the route includes rocky, root-covered terrain and can be challenging to follow in places.
Expect solitude, especially on weekdays and outside peak summer months. The BWCA enforces strict quotas that preserve the wilderness character, so you'll rarely encounter crowds. This is a leave-no-trace wilderness area with no facilities—plan for complete self-sufficiency.
A BWCA overnight permit is required year-round and must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. Entry Point 27 (Snowbank Lake) is the designated entry point for this loop. Permits are distributed on a quota system with limited daily entries.
Reservations open on the last Wednesday of January at 9:00 AM Central Time for the entire calendar year. Popular dates (July-August weekends) sell out within hours. Permits cost $16 for up to 9 people, plus a $6 reservation fee per permit.
Key regulations: - Maximum group size: 9 people - Camp only at designated campsites (marked with fire grates and latrines) - No cans or bottles (except fuel canisters and personal care items under 32 oz) - All trash must be packed out - Human waste: Use designated latrines or dig cat holes 150+ feet from water - Campfires allowed only in established fire grates at campsites - Bear-resistant food storage required: Use bear canisters or hang food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from tree trunks - No soap in lakes or streams (even biodegradable soap)
Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM. Motorized equipment and wheeled vehicles (including game carts and wheelbarrows) are prohibited.
Mid-June through September offers the most reliable conditions. May and early June see peak blackfly and mosquito populations—bring a headnet and prepare for relentless bugs. By late June, insect pressure diminishes significantly.
July and August provide warm swimming weather and stable conditions, but these are also the busiest months. Weekend permits are extremely competitive. Water levels are typically lower in late summer, which can make some shallow connecting streams between lakes more challenging to navigate.
September into early October is spectacular for backpacking. Fall colors peak in late September, transforming the forest into brilliant reds and golds. Bugs are gone, temperatures are crisp, and permits are readily available. Nights can drop below freezing, so bring appropriate insulation. Most campsites remain snow-free through mid-October.
Winter (November-April) is possible but requires advanced skills. Snow depths exceed 3 feet, and temperatures plunge well below zero. Ice-covered lakes create navigation challenges, and many trail sections become indistinct under snow.
Spring thaw (April-May) brings flooding, thick mud, and hazardous ice conditions. This is the least favorable season.
Water is abundant throughout the route. The BWCA's lakes and streams provide unlimited water access, but all water must be treated. The pristine appearance is deceiving—beaver activity means giardia is present throughout the region.
Filter or purify all water. Most backpackers use filters or chemical treatment. In winter, melting snow is necessary as lakes freeze solid.
No resupply is possible on-trail. The nearest town is Ely, Minnesota, about 20 miles from the Snowbank Lake trailhead. Ely has full services including grocery stores, outdoor shops, and restaurants. Stock up before heading in—there are no opportunities to resupply during the loop.
Plan for 3-4 days of food depending on your pace. No mail drops are available.
Bears are common in the BWCA. Black bears are habituated to campsites and will investigate food storage. Proper bear-resistant storage is not optional—bears have learned to locate poorly hung food and will destroy packs to get it. Use bear canisters or the PCT method (hang at least 10 feet high, 4 feet from trunk). Never store food in your tent.
Moose encounters are possible, especially near wetlands. Give them wide berth—they're unpredictable and can be aggressive, particularly cows with calves.
Weather can change rapidly. Severe thunderstorms develop quickly in summer, bringing dangerous lightning, high winds, and heavy rain. Monitor sky conditions and seek lower ground if storms approach. The exposed lakeshores and ridgelines offer no lightning protection.
Navigation requires attention. The trail is marked but not heavily maintained. Expect blowdowns, overgrown sections, and faint tread in places. Bring a detailed map and compass or GPS. The Superior National Forest BWCA maps are excellent. Cell service is nonexistent—don't rely on your phone.
Rocky terrain with exposed roots and glacial erratics makes ankle injuries common. Wear supportive boots and watch your footing, especially when carrying a heavy pack.
Hypothermia is a risk even in summer. If you fall in a lake or get soaked by rain with temperatures in the 50s-60s, hypothermia can develop quickly. Pack rain gear and extra insulation.
From Ely, Minnesota, drive east on State Highway 169 for approximately 18 miles. Turn left (north) onto County Road 4 (Snowbank Lake Road) and continue for about 4 miles to the Snowbank Lake entry point parking area.
The road is paved until the final section near the trailhead, where it becomes well-maintained gravel. Any vehicle can access the trailhead in summer. Winter access requires high clearance and possibly 4WD depending on snow conditions.
Closest airport is Duluth International (DLH), approximately 120 miles south. Rental cars are available. Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) is 250 miles south with more flight options.
No commercial shuttle services specifically serve this trailhead, but Ely-area outfitters may offer transportation for a fee. If doing a point-to-point hike rather than the loop, coordinate a vehicle shuttle in advance.
Parking is free at the entry point, but the lot is small and can fill during peak season. Arrive early or consider starting your hike on a weekday.
Start your hike early in the day, especially if entering on a weekend. Other permit holders may claim the most desirable campsites along Snowbank Lake by early afternoon.
Campsite selection strategy: On day one, consider pushing past the first cluster of sites on Snowbank Lake to find more secluded options. The sites near Disappointment Lake tend to be quieter. Many backpackers prefer the smaller, more intimate lakes deeper in the loop.
Bring a camp chair or sit pad. Most campsites have fire rings but limited natural seating. The rocky terrain isn't conducive to lounging.
A lightweight tarp or rain fly can save your trip if multi-day rain sets in. Having a dry space to cook and relax makes a huge difference.
Pack extra fuel. Campfires are allowed but not guaranteed—wet conditions or burn bans may prevent fires. Don't count on fire for cooking.
Insect protection: In May and June, a bug shelter or screened tent vestibule is worth the weight. Permethrin-treated clothing helps significantly.
Fishing is excellent if you have a Minnesota fishing license. Lake trout, northern pike, and walleye are abundant. A lightweight rod can provide fresh meals and entertainment.
Leave detailed trip plans with someone at home. There's no cell service and limited traffic, so self-rescue is critical in emergencies. Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it.
The Superior National Forest website has the most current information on conditions, fire restrictions, and closures: https://www.fs.usda.gov/superior
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