3-DAY SOLO Wilderness Canoe Camping | BWCA 2022 vlog

[@Trampslikeusjb]

The sounds of loons in the evening and through the night is my favourite!!

[@donalddakota8069]

Looks like a nice time. For tics, peppermint oil will make them back out. Look up how to J-stroke with your canoe paddle, then you will be able to paddle on either side of the boat as long as you want without switching left and right. Thanks for sharing, take care.

[@adam326327]

I left Minnesota for the navy thirty years ago and am in San Diego now. My soul yearns for this. Minnesota calls to me still. Soon I can retire and live up there in the woods. 💜

[@riverwalker5413]

Heading to upper peninsula in a week, for two weeks of trout fishing.....watching these videos takes me there.....thanks for sharing your experience

[@SolotheSeries]

A very refreshing solo to watch ❤

[@bustermot]

Hardcore. My family and I have the same canoe and if my buddy dropped out I’m not sure I would do the same even tho I love being solo. I’m impressed with your tenacity.

[@Naughtz]

It is so refreshing seeing a young lady enjoying nature and not once on a cell phone!! Mad respect from your neighbor up north🤙🇨🇦

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you!

[@Touchthepancake]

What?!!

[@alannahalmeda8358]

bit of a backhanded compliment, no? 🤨

[@steverodbro7954]

Appreciate and enjoy your videos. Visited BWCAW 2 or 3 times a year many years ago. Now my kids do, and soon maybe the grandkids. Your videos are really true … have the right feeling. Two comments: Glad to see you wear your PFD…it’s a must do. People should just try to put one on while IN the water, and they will understand why you put them on BEFORE going in the water. Another tip: Tie a 15 ft length onto the bow of your canoe of that crummy yellow floating plastic rope. It’s not good for much, but doubles the ability to get back ahold of your canoe if you dump. Also, tie that ultralight canoe to something when you get out. It doesn’t take much of a breeze to send a canoe out into the lake while you’re left looking on from shore. Have fun. Be safe.

[@Ravedave5]

The birdsong when you are paddling at the start is the white throated Sparrow. It's my favourite bird call and always reminds me of the bwca. Premithrin works pretty well against ticks.

[@jodimiddendorf]

I wish I could identify more birds. Thanks for sharing!

[@mileswinslow7553]

Mine too...

[@amorimontagnus2042]

Beautiful canoe, congrats on your solo trip. Might I suggest some more practice with your paddle for steering so you don't have to switch sides every three strokes, you may get into trouble had there been high winds. Happy to see you using the proper tool for the vessel though, good luck on your future trips.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Lots of people comment this on my videos. I do use C stroke/J stroke and even skulling. I much prefer to switch sides when solo paddling especially in high winds. I find I have more “pull” per stroke when doing this and don’t mind the switching and getting packs mildly wet. I’ve even won first place in solo Paddling competition twice 😉. Not saying that to toot my horn, just want to alleviate the concern many people have for me! I really do appreciate these comments and everyone’s care. ☺️

[@parkerbirdsell4194]

ha ha gotta love a good stroke..... of the paddle that is

[@scottwhittaker1681]

Thanks for sharing your adventure. Have to wait patiently for Sept. for my bwca trip. Regarding the ticks, as an old turkey hunter, I highly recommend the sawyer permetherin. Just hang pants, shirts, and socks on a line and spray them down and let dry before wearing. Best wishes.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Good luck on your September trip!

[@mikeu5380]

Fabulous video. Thank you so much for your generosity in sharing your trip with us. One thing I need to mention (I'm sure you expect nosy advice from an old canoeist!) When canoeing solo, the dean of North American canoeing Bill Mason (and daughter Becky) advises that one sit toward the middle of the canoe length, slightly to one side (angling the canoe), and using J-strokes to steer. All of this reduces the paddling energy expended. Cheers!

[@jodimiddendorf]

I definitely use j stoke sometimes. But when using my large two-three person canoe solo the j-stroke doesn’t really work. The canoe catches wind too easily and full strokes are necessary. Definitely more effort but otherwise it does not with with this canoe. Thank you for your comments and for watching with us! Someday I hope to have a solo canoe so I can get around easier by myself. ☺️☺️🤞

[@mikeu5380]

@@jodimiddendorf Jodi, I am honored you replied, and I fully understand your situation. I wonder if you've seen the documentary on Bill Mason, "Water Walker." Fair (and light!) winds to you.

[@jodimiddendorf]

@@mikeu5380 I have not. I’ll check it out. ☺️

[@jaysonallen3100]

Sweet video! Thanks for sharing! Bit of a challenge soloing a 17' but you did well. Perfect your J stroke and you won't have to switch so often and stay dry 😉

[@jodimiddendorf]

It just hurts me to slow down with every J-stroke. I feel better Changing sides every paddle. My things do get wet though…

[@TamarAllen]

Excellent advice 😉

[@AnneDragonfly]

I used to canoe w my brother. He was always commenting, painstakingly describing and demonstrating the benefits of using J stroke. That in the amidst the spectacular beauty of nature. So I switched to kayaking with women.

[@jaro399]

From Polish - Greetings wherever you are.

[@LTian-so4td]

Love your artwork of your site! I’m gonna do that to when I go camping next week! Awesome idea ! And hey to the 23 pizza rolls !

[@jodimiddendorf]

It’s nice to look back at the artwork too!

[@redheadsched]

Love the grouse drumming humor😅😅. I’m starting to buy equipment for a trip in a couple of weeks. After watching this video, I think I’m going to buy a 3 person tent vs smaller so that I have more room for a refuge during rain and heavy insects time. Great vid!

[@Zundaaa]

Hahaha! At 8:17min I was just thinking, wow how peaceful to sit there when suddenly that insect blasted by the camera! :D Awesome video! Thank you so much for taking us along! :)

[@jodimiddendorf]

😂 Thanks for watching!

[@donspringer8222]

Thank you for bringing many fond memories of camping in the BWCA. Awesome video!

[@kurtbraasch4200]

Great video, Jodi. You keep it real. I am also a mosquito & tick magnet. Thanks for sharing your adventure. Cheers!

[@jodimiddendorf]

I'm happy you enjoyed!

[@mikedenning9261]

I recommend the J-stroke for straight canoeing on a lake or calm water. Saves on all of the switching sides.

[@jodimiddendorf]

I’m not a j-stroke fan. Especially in this canoe. It’s huge and catches wind. Easier to switch sides in my opinion. Many people do agree with you. I find it interesting! Different folks different strokes! 😉

[@PAOutdoorAdventure]

I just got back from the BWCA EP 37 from Kawishiwi Lake to Malberg Lake. It was my first 7 day solo trip and I absolutely loved it! It was an amazing trip! Love your videos!

[@jkd5656]

How long did it take you to go that far? Looking at the same solo in a couple weeks

[@PAOutdoorAdventure]

@@jkd5656 I stayed on Polly to break the travel up. So a day and a half going in and coming out. I didn’t push it to hard. I do a lot of fishing and don’t pack light though LOL

[@johnnyhalf6558]

Haven't been up that way in over 20 years . Used to portage just outside Ely "fall lake to Basswood "B.W.C.A.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Haven’t done that trip yet. I bet it’s lovely.

[@michaelkostelnik5382]

nothing like time alone in such a beautiful place

[@yooperventures2830]

Enjoyed your video. When paddling solo the j stroke is really helpful. It's a great skill to have paddling stern in tandem as well. Once you learn it you'll be really glad you did. Happy paddling!

[@jodimiddendorf]

I actually do know the j-stroke and c-stroke but I don’t love them. I prefer to keep moving forward quickly, even if my things get a bit wet in the canoe from dripping paddles. Everyone is so different ☺️☺️

[@yooperventures2830]

@@jodimiddendorf Awesome. I've always hated switching sides. I've paddled mostly solo canoes and never once felt the need for a double blade paddle. Paddling a tandem solo takes a bit a more skill for sure. 😊

[@Angela-qc3qd]

I really enjoyed this video! Thanks for sharing. I’m missing the summer right now and this brought me some summertime sun!😊

[@hareshlachminarain9451]

You’re absolutely amazing Jodi. Love the video and the way you narrated it.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you so much!

[@thebeardeddiverscuba]

Great video, I just discovered you as I am getting ready for my own boundary waters trip in a couple weeks. I to paddle a canoe the same lol I hate the different strokes I just like switching sides.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Whatever works best for each paddler!

[@amyroche2264]

Made it to MN. Had my first trip to a cabin on Snowbank Lake and got to paddle into the BWCA for some day trips. Sublime. And no ticks!!! Going to be watching your videos more closely now bc I want to take my daughters out for a real adventure next summer. I’ve got lots to learn. Thanks so much for your fantastic videos!!!!

[@jodimiddendorf]

I love this! Welcome to MN. What a great cabin location to go to! Let me know if you have questions!

[@davescanoeingadventures]

Fantastic video. I have yet to go solo. I can imagine how refreshing it could be tho.

[@FishNMore]

The BWCA be hitting different this year😌

[@MikeBarryBees]

Looked great!! Great video! We got back last week from our trip. Rain and thunderstorms with 3 days of howling wind. Tough paddling in and out, but still a great trip because a rough trip camping in the BWCA is still better than a good day at work in Louisiana 95 degree weather!! Us southerners were quite chilly at night in the low 40’s. Glad the weather held out for you!

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you! Thunderstorms can be super cool, and a tad unnerving in the BWCA. Glad you still had a good time. I was fairly cold at night too, I’m thinking I need to start bringing my warmer sleeping bag on spring trips. I even packed a sleeping pad this trip for extra warmth.

[@MikeBarryBees]

@@jodimiddendorf yes indeed. We had thermarests, but the sleeping bags and tents were summer weight stuff. But we just made do as we were just happy to be up there once again. Happy summer!!

[@DennyT71]

Jodi, way too make lemonade out of a lemon. Your friend can't make it and you go on anyway. Beautiful scenery 👌 Thanks for sharing. I've done a couple trips to Quetico and I'm jealous. You make it seem so enjoyable, everything you've experienced you take such joy in. That's wonderful.

[@terryrensch2561]

I just got a canoe esquif 16 prospecteur fully fitted out not used or been in a canoe but now looking to get some training in here in the UK before my Great Glen canoe trail in Scotland during August raising money for the Atzhiemers Society. I will be getting out for other adventures wild camping with the canoe and doing some wild life photography. I am retired so got some time on my hands in between part time job Great video and so peaceful out there in Canada on the lakes here in the UK we have got a few lakes and rivers which I plan to paddle on wish i did this years ago when i was younger 😊

[@squirrelcovers6340]

Pizza rolls? That's genius! YES💙

[@johnhenning8634]

I enjoyed your video. I came late to canoeing but have been lucky to have 67 trips, a few elsewhere but most in Quetico to Brent Lake, and for the past few years with Covid, into Saganaga in the BWCAW. All of my trips are solo now, my paddling buddies having either gotten old and quit or my best. passed on. i will look at your other videos and plan my two trips this coming canoe season.

[@danielpohl29]

Pick up a few packs of mosquito coils. Set them up on your perimeter + bug spray, and you'll kive bug free for the most part. Its amazing how well mosquito coils work

[@uptownphotoguy]

Awesome adventure. Great that you went solo and enjoyed!

[@jodimiddendorf]

It truly was a lovely trip. Thanks for watching!

[@miksretirementadventures9795]

Hey Jodi, You've inspired me to to do a solo adventure into the BWCA. I'll be retiring soon and want to go back It's been too long for me. I'm usually a Quetico guy. But I want to try and do some fishing. Specifically for trout of any kind. That peace serenity is unforgettable. I subscribed and I'll keep watching. Thanks For Sharing Brian

[@BushKayakersCampingAustralia]

Good effort . What a beautiful wilderness and awesome place to go paddle camping !

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you!

[@TheNorthwestWind]

awesome trip

[@thecoffeefuelledwoodsman]

Thank you for the relaxing time in the woods! We have had a large increase of Ticks in Nova Scotia (took 22 off my dog from a 1.5hr hike). Used to seeing a few, but now I expect to pull at least 7 off the pup every trip out. My last few camp trips this year I have not seen any, but I also started using Sawyers Permethrin on my clothes and boots as recommended by Shug Emery. I tried a few natural repellents and did not find they had any effect here. Mostly Deer and Brown Dog ticks in this area. Thanks again!

[@TamarAllen]

Great vid lady on sharing with having to go solo!

[@overmanfarms]

Whenever I need some warm nature therapy during our cold MN winters; I’ll watch one of your canoe camping videos! I’m getting antsy to get outdoors again and enjoy warmer weather! But I do have a question; what kind of Wenonah canoe for you have? It looks super nice! Love these wilderness vlogs of yours ❤️

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thanks for the kind words. I’m looking forward to paddle season too. I have a Champlain KV 18’. It’s WAYYYY too much Canoe for my solo ventures, but it’s what I have for now and it works ☺️.

[@Saltfly]

Permethrin on your shoes, socks and pants for the ticks. And a thermacell for the mosquitoes. Maybe two. They work wonders.

[@jodimiddendorf]

I love permethrin. Thank you for sharing this.

[@WickedEarthAdventures]

Awesome video! it must have been so peaceful there! I love the editing when you were making the sandwich!

[@omegaomtv]

Good job props on doing this trip by yourself. Lots of courage.

[@billblogso]

Beautiful trip. Thanks for sharing

[@amyroche2264]

Wow. This is so inspiring. One month to go before my big move. Thanks for mentioning the ticks. But😱. I really need to wrap my head around those things. I don’t want them to deter me from getting outside.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Woohooo it’s getting close! There are wood tick removing tools you can buy if you never want to touch one! I still think they are fairly mild. 🙂

[@RickyVentures]

Hello from our local Minnesota KZbin channel. Great trip and video!

[@mpeterson8765]

I love your videos. I once lived in the upper Midwest and did a BWCA/ Quetico trip every year. Now I live in California but going to do another trip to the BWCA with my sons and grandson using canoes I am building next summer. For ticks, use permethrin ON YOUR CLOTHES ( not on you). It paralyzes and kills ticks and mosquitos. DEET repels them. Keep enjoying life and sharing your experiences. We all enjoy them.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you for your kind words! Good luck on your trip. Very cool that you are building canoes!

[@AnneDragonfly]

I hear those black capped chickadees. ❤️🙏🏽🌲

[@squirrelcovers6340]

You just appeared in my suggested videos. SUBSCRIBED! It's nice to see solo women out enjoying nature. May I suggest a headnet to make the bugs a bit tolerable. I know they can absolutely ruin a trip.

[@nicolebaldwin8177]

Looks amazing! I'd have to have my dog with me for company. But I hope to go camping, I rough it in a travel trailer, someday in MN. I want to hear the loons.

[@littlegriffoffgridalberta6837]

Beautiful little lake & nice campsite :) and I'm a bit like you I love the water but stay away from the rapids lol !

[@perfumeworld2329]

Wonderful Trip. Thanks Jodi

[@Mark_L]

It’s midnight. My wife and dog are next to me in bed. So, thanks for bringing me along on your trip. I can feel the solitude of your surroundings. Beautiful views.

[@jodimiddendorf]

I am thankful that you could enjoy this video :)

[@playhouseinthewoods6103]

As O would say you go girl. No disrespect meant. Great video really enjoy how laid back the trip was. As far as comments about how you do or shouldn’t do things pay them no mind. I think that is why they say paddle your own canoe and don’t worry about how someone else paddle’s theirs. Keep it up.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you! ☺️

[@squirrelcovers6340]

How would that be taken as disrespectful??

[@playhouseinthewoods6103]

Because some people may say that it is plain to see that she is no girl,and would not get the reference to Oprah.

[@JeanBeranek]

Awesome video. If you ever go downtown ely stop in the steakhouse I gave them a big brown trout mount about 10 years ago. Get a bucky Burger 👍

[@darrylhansell3300]

Awesome video! Just bought myself a Langford used kevlar 16.5. Getting back into canoe tripping.Was inspiring to see the video! Oh i get posion ivy too..Gold Bond anti itch( yellow bottle) only thing that works..its also for cuts and bug bites etc..i put that S... on everthing!

[@paulkhanna1]

Ticks have just been awful for me this year. I’ve never had more than 1-3 ticks on me for a season, and on one leg of a trip I had at least 20. Edit: you brought and cooked pizza rolls. You’re an absolute legend.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Haha thanks! Try it 😉

[@TR_Swan]

Looks like a great time. Big boat for solo! Thank you for sharing. As far as ticks. In Eastern PA they are about the same this year. I have had 4 in my yard this year and only 1 while afield. I don't think its worse/better than last year. Perhaps someday I'll make it to BWCA.....

[@jodimiddendorf]

The BWCA is truly lovely!

[@johnhenning8634]

PS I am a sit and switch guy in my Wenonah Encounter. Enjoy what you do, don't worry about what other people think you should do.

[@jeffcrosby4485]

I hope you have a wonderful day today beautiful.Your living my dream I wish I had someone like you in my life too do things like that with it's not safe to be alone be safe .I love watching KZbin you give joy to every day .

[@ebrahimsainodin]

Wow so amazing

[@johnburrows6055]

Thanks for the nice video Jodi, very relaxing. I'll be going widerness camping this weekend, in eastern Ontario where i live. The blackflies aren't out yet, i hope.

[@gretchenbueide6155]

So lovely . I’m planning my first solo trip. Going into Sawbill entry #38. Thoughts?

[@coryzwilling7889]

best video yet, keep up the great adventures

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you ☺️

[@alainbelisle4543]

Absolutely beautiful !

[@sharonp9710]

And now I desperately need to go camping!

[@fredericsupercycle4136]

WOWWW such a NICE trip dear!!!!! any bear around there? i've been canoe camping a few times too but a bit different as you did; such a good activity for photography!!! :) you give me the taste to continue canoe camping!! TX for sharing Jodi!!! :)

[@jimhanson7476]

Beautiful video, well done Jodi..

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you!

[@cainmenard5720]

“They didn’t know that I already have a boyfriend.” I lol’d. great comedic timing.

[@stephenjones6902]

Great video Jodi. I must try canoeing, it looks like fun.

[@jodimiddendorf]

It is lovely!

[@donsurdej7824]

You are amazing, great video thanks so much

[@brookemcc]

If you use a J stroke you won’t have to switch sides so frequently. It will keep your canoe straight. Enjoy your trip

[@jodimiddendorf]

I am one of the few who really just prefers to switch sides when paddling. Especially when I use the large white canoe solo. This canoe is tough when there isn’t enough weight, because of how high it sits and how even if it’s calm, the breeze blows you around 😂 the J stroke is barely enough steering power per stroke and it’s just frustrating. I just find it more efficient for me to switch sides especially in this canoe. I know I’m in the minority, but sticking to what feels best for me has been serving me well. 😊😊😊 are you a Boundary waters person? I hope you get to get out there this summer!

[@michaelmccoy1944]

Good stuff...thank you!

[@wiseoleowl5154]

My crew is heading this way in September on our way to Pine. 👍👍

[@jodimiddendorf]

Love that! Going to visit the falls on the way too?

[@wiseoleowl5154]

@@jodimiddendorf Not sure at this point. One member of the crew has a semi bum knee. He doesn’t want to do the 202 rods south out of Pine into Canoe.

[@colkri]

Great stuff! Can I ask what food barrel you're using here?

[@melissaweidendorf3425]

2-3 ticks per year?! Try hiking off trail, I've had more than 20 in the last week! lol Great video, thanks for sharing!

[@dive2drive314]

I love rain when im driving, but not camping. Lol

[@catienewby8522]

"They didn't know that I already have a boyfriend." LOL

[@macski6924]

Beautiful!!!

[@davegott996]

Very nice thanks for sharing

[@raczyk]

Where did you get the nice music do dub over the video, very relaxing.

[@BushcraftAdventure]

↟↟This is what l would like to try🛶🤔 Nice adventure..thanks for sharing🙌🏻✨ Best regards.. Ꭿℓℯℵ

[@ssheldon3042]

Awesome trip thanks for sharing!

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you! It was a blast.

[@chrisponsano4378]

Watch a few videos about canoe paddling. A proper J-stroke will keep you from switching from side to side.

[@paulholscher8021]

I found this self video to be extraordinary in clarity. Did you use a "GoPro" for the recordings?

[@naps3386]

I recommend some type of GPS emergency communicator like SPOT or inReach when going on solo trips.

[@jimfromoregonusa9899]

Excellent and thoroughly enjoyed...

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you!

[@samorayee420]

you are amazing . i believe your page will grow up more and more . hopefully see more video

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you so much!

[@donevjen]

Great video! Strong work!!

[@ibobdingle]

Inspiring, thanks for sharing :)

[@archibalcox]

and some day ill fall asleep forever with nature in my embrace and we will be together again

[@LosProductions]

Just went this week and the mosquitos were crazy!! Never seen so many like this

[@jodimiddendorf]

The sound they make at night is crazy! Sounded like they were going to swarm and fly me away!

[@Guy61440]

I’m not sure about prevention of ticks. But, we are seeing more and more ticks due to the lack of giant forest fires that use to be extremely common in the eastern half of the US. Many people believe that populations are increasing due to increasing winter temperatures. While the temp raising is a major concern, it is not the cause of increased tick populations. Ticks overwinter in leaf litter and burrowing into the ground. This allows them to stay warm no matter the winter temps. Our forests are being choked out by invasive species that block sun from getting to the ground and just create more tick habitat. Ticks prefer shade and heavily covered areas. Believe it or not studies have shown that tick populations are higher in forested areas than tall grass prairies.

[@777cretbo]

Looks like up the gunflint trail? ... What lake is that 2nd campsite on? beautiful !! Fishing pole a must, Fish dinner

[@jodimiddendorf]

Yes Up the Gunflint!

[@jenniferganoza2444]

My bf and I are going to gunflint trail in the end of July. Thanks for update on the ticks. Oh where did you get your headband. It looks like a buff maybe but just wondering as so many don't fit me and definitely want a good one when we go

[@jodimiddendorf]

Good luck on your trip! This headband was from Dunham’s I believe. It’s a tad big on my head but when I bunch it up it stays in place. I also bring a scarf and wrap that around my head to keep bugs away from my ears when not wearing a bug net on my head.

[@jenniferganoza2444]

@@jodimiddendorfthanks!! I'll have to check out Dunham's. Using a scarf is a great idea too! I have way too much hair and it's so thick and long. It's nice to have it up but also just tamed and not in my way. Buffs and headband wraps are more helpful for me than the standard ones sold elsewhere. Thanks again!!!!

[@jimbohler6684]

First off, what a great trip with a forecast that was less than great. Second, you must not fish, or just jot on this trip? And lastly, you have one of the brightest dispositions offline anyone I've ever seen in the BWCA. Keep up the positivity.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Thank you! That is so sweet. I do fish but I usually don't fish when I'm solo camping. I tend to not catch anything. Hahah

[@jimbohler6684]

I just reread my comment. Thanks for reading it. Thanks for replying. Apparently I should have proofread my comment, because autocorrect was not on my side.

[@jodimiddendorf]

@@jimbohler6684 I could still understand it! Ha

[@mikesteinberg6836]

Have you tryed a Thermocell for the bugs yet? They are the ONLY thing i have found to keep almost all the bugs and especially sketters away.

[@jodimiddendorf]

Yes I have tried thermocell! I like the product and often use it. Didn’t think to bring it this trip unfortunately. I do use a Gear bug repellent that I spray on my clothing and tent and life jacket outside and let it dry before use. The bug repellent has permethrin in it and that works wonders for me too!