Explore the natural world within the Boundary Waters

What is the BWCA?

     The Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). In conjunction with Quetico Provincial Park in Canada, this beautiful area is home to more than 2000 lakes connected by rivers and portages that are only accessible to paddlers. It is still one of the most pristine places you can travel to and camp in and is one of the few places on earth where you can find water pure enough for drinking in the wild.

Andy Wade, HA Class of 2001

Number of Trips to date: 17

Favorite thing about the BWCA: The North Woods of Minnesota holds a special place in my heart. Within the BWCA, life becomes real, relationships take on new meanings, time disappears, and God’s love is broadcast across every pristine lake. I am excited to be sharing this life-changing experience with the students. My dream is that they will see the Creator through His creations and that they fall in love with the Boundary Waters as I did many years ago.

Favorite Lake: Iron Lake

Sara Bagshaw, HA Class of 2016

Number of Trips to date: 5

Favorite thing about the BWCA: My favorite thing about the Boundary Waters is the escape from reality to a beautiful, peaceful, and remote place. Being able to slow down and enjoy God’s creation in each and every lake, and the endless stars at night. One day, I hope to see the Northern Lights while we are up there!

Favorite Lake: Omega Lake

Sandy Miller, Class of 2004

Number of Trips to date: 5

Favorite thing about the BWCA: Spending time with the students canoeing in the wilderness is a special experience. It becomes a moment in time filled with serenity on the water, strategy on the portages, teamwork setting up camp, laughs around the campfire, stillness under the starry night, and memories made in a part of creation few people get the chance to visit. I am forever grateful for a loving God who gives us precious moments on this earth to foster relationships and grow together in His grace.

Favorite Lake: Crooked Lake

Doug Thompson, HA Class of 1995

Number of Trips to date: 21

Favorite thing about the BWCA: Each trip to the Boundary Waters offers a retreat from the everyday hustle that’s filled with phone calls and emails. Being there opens my senses to hear and see God in the quiet of a sunrise, in the stars of the Milky Way as they reach out of the darkness, or in the call of the loons across a still lake.

Favorite Lake: Fishdance Lake