2026 Spring Trail Crew Recap: Trip #5: Powwow Trail

Our incredible 6-person volunteer crew just wrapped up Trip #5 (May 13–17, 2026), clocking in a massive 644 total volunteer service hours to help restore the Powwow Trail!

Here is how the adventure went down:

The Battle of Lake Three: "The Mighty Headwinds" earned their name on Thursday morning. Facing a fierce South wind and whitecaps on Lake Three, the crew dug deep, hugged the western shoreline, and pushed through. It took a grueling 9.5 hours of intense paddling and hiking to reach the Mirror Lake campsite—but team spirit never wavered!

The mission: Take back the trail from overgrown willow brushes.

The Progress: The crew successfully cleared 0.6 miles of trail between Mirror Lake and Path Lake!

The Action: It was an all-out battle of "Man vs. Willow." The crew focused heavily on digging out massive root balls.

The Casualties: The work was so intense that one Root Slayer shovel completely broke, and a long-handled one bent. (Note to future crews: Bring a Root Slayer and a lopper for everyone!)

Camp Life at Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake treated the crew well with beautiful, flat tent pads. Pro-tip for future crews: Bring a large 10-liter water filtration system to share so everyone doesn't have to brave the steep climb down to the lake for water!

This crucial maintenance work wouldn't be possible without our amazing public and private partners. A massive shoutout to: The US Forest Service (Superior National Forest) & Piragis Outfitters for permits. Frank Udovich at Kawishiwi Lodge for the bunkhouse lodging and essential canoe gear.

The crew returned safe, sound, and a little sore on Sunday afternoon. Thank you to Verena, Goeran, Vamshi, Tony, Kay, and Melinda for your hard work and dedication to keeping our trails open!