As we celebrate 70 years of Wilderness Canoe Base, we pause to give thanks.

We give thanks for the generations of campers, staff, trip leaders, volunteers, congregations, and families who have shaped this ministry and carried its story forward.

We give thanks for the wilderness itself – for granite ridges worn smooth by time, clear northern lakes that mirror the sky, the call of loons at dusk, campfires beneath the aurora borealis, and portages through the boreal forest that remind us that God often speaks most clearly when we slow down and pay attention.

For seventy years, Wilderness Canoe Base has been a place where young people discover courage and resilience, where community is formed one paddle stroke at a time, and where faith comes alive in the beauty of God’s creation.

Most of all, we give thanks to God – the One who planted this vision, guided it through seven decades, and continues to call us into wonder, stewardship, community, and faith.

As we celebrate the past, we also look to the future. If Wilderness Canoe Base has been meaningful in your life, we invite you to help ensure that future generations can experience the wonder of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and encounter God’s presence in this sacred place.

“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it.” Psalm 24:1

Thanks be to God for 70 years of Wilderness Canoe Base.

Thank you to those who were able to be a part of the celebration weekend and for those who are praying for this ministry from afar. (See a few highlights in the pictures below!)

What a gift it was to gather with so many people from across the decades — former campers, staff, volunteers, families, donors, and friends whose stories are woven into the life of Wilderness. The weekend was full of laughter, memories, meaningful conversations, good food, and the kind of deep connection that reminds us why this place matters so much.

We are especially grateful for the WCB summer and seasonal staff, Steph, the kitchen crew, the pontoon drivers, and the planning committee who poured so much time, care, and energy into making the celebration possible. From meals that never seemed to stop coming, to hundreds of pontoon trips back and forth, to the countless behind-the-scenes details, their hospitality reflected the very best of Wilderness.

This anniversary was more than a look back. It was a reminder that Wilderness continues to shape lives through community, creation, faith, and adventure. The stories shared over the weekend made it clear: this place has mattered for generations, and by God’s grace, it will continue to matter for generations to come.

Thank you for showing up, for sharing your stories, and for being part of this community. We are grateful for you.

With gratitude,

Heather Eggert, Executive Director

Stephanie Carpenter, Wilderness Director

PS See you for Celebration Part 2, October 24 at Roseville Lutheran.