Once back at River Point, the gear turn-in was quick and efficient. We said our goodbyes to Mitch and headed for the showers, warm and welcoming after days in the woods.
We had arranged to stay in a bunkhouse for the night before we set out on our trip. Having both used several outfitters in the past, we didn’t have very high expectations for the bunkhouse accommodations we’d find. However, were pleased to discover that bunkhouse #2 was clean and comfortable, with a table we could use to organize our gear for the trip. The nearby private bath and shower rooms were a pleasant surprise as well. Updated and modern, they were just what we needed after a long drive north. As evening settled in, we were able to enjoy a campfire at the fire ring outside the bunkhouse and gaze at the stars we would get to know so well over the next five days.
The morning of our departure, we met Mitch at the van and loaded our gear. The drive to Farm Lake was filled with more stories and fishing ideas as we enjoyed a delicious breakfast basket that fueled us for the day ahead.
As my buddy and I pulled into the complex, the first thing I noticed was the beauty of the resort. The buildings, the signage, the landscaping all reflected the pride that you and Steve obviously have for this place.
My husband and I stayed in the Hideaway Cabin before leaving for our trip to the BWCA. Jane was SO welcoming and accommodating the moment we stepped foot into the office. Steve made sure we had everything we needed for our trip. Our interactions with them were always so pleasant! The cabin we stayed in was absolutely darling--perfect for two, with a gorgeous view of the lake. It was clean, inviting, and everything worked perfectly! When we ran into staff members during our day, they were cheerful and welcoming. We are DEFINITELY coming back next year!!
Our time in the Boundary Waters went too fast, as it always seems to do. Before we knew it, we were at the challenging exit portage at Little Gabro Lake. We were on time for our pick up, but wondered if Mitch would be (I’ve had bad experiences with pick-ups from other outfitters). My fears proved unfounded. As we navigated the portage with our gear, Mitch met us along the rocky path with a warm greeting and an offer to help carry our gear. The van ride home was filled with stories from our trip, and Mitch added a few of his own.
We parked and walked to the office where we met you and received our first orientation to the BWCA and to River Point Resort. You greeted us warmly, offered us a complimentary beer, and shared the details of River Point, the town of Ely, and the Boundary Waters. If we didn’t already feel welcome and relaxed, your greeting certainly put us there!
I’ll admit to a little tug of sadness as we pulled out of the drive and pointed the car back towards home. As I reflected on our trip, I realized that River Point had exceeded my expectations at every point of the trip. I’m hoping that it won’t be too long before I can make another BWCA trip through River Point, and will enthusiastically recommended your resort and outfitting service to anyone who asks. Thanks for the great memories.
Incredible Outfitter - Read my email to the owner below:
My family and I had an absolutely wonderful experience with River Point. We just stopped by for an afternoon during a trip to Birch Lake and were taken aback by how friendly and helpful staff and owners were. They assisted us in restocking supplies, finding great places to fish, and simple Birch Lake inside tips they had to share. They seem to really have a lot of experience. We loved it so much, that I have decided to apply to work with them for Summer 2017!! =)
Had a great time. Fishing was good and the service was excellent. Highly recommend. They do a lot here from just a north woods vacation to something good for the kids, fishing or canoeing. Am going to bring the family back when the kids are old enough for a BWCA trip.
Once on the water, we were pleased to find Mitch’s directions to be spot on. We were catching fish right away, and were able to find and secure one of his recommended campsites which would become home for the next several days.
The next few days were filled with fishing, fishing and more fishing. We tried several spots that Mitch recommended, finding success at each location. Meanwhile, the evenings were dark and moonless, providing a rare opportunity for this “city boy” to see the Milky Way.
The next stop was the outfitting shed where we met Mitch. Warm and friendly, Mitch was a true wealth of information about the boundary waters. As he went through our gear with us, Mitch shared stories of past trips and asked us about what we wanted to find during our trip. Since our focus was on fishing, he spent quite a bit of time talking with us about our best options and potential routes. He pointed out the best campsites and even drew diagrams on our map to help us navigate tricky sections in the lakes. In no time at all, it felt like Mitch had been a friend for years.
I should have known the moment I turned on to River Point Road that something was different about River Point Outfitting Company. The beautiful wooden sign and long, winding drive set the mood for an experience that would become truly “North Woods”.
My family and I have been going to River Point at least once (sometimes twice!) a year since 2011 and we just love it as well as the owners and their son. We go to fish and relax and have always had a fantastic time! Jane and Steve (and staff) have always been accommodating, warm and welcoming to our family, including my infant son. It's a beautiful spot with immaculate lodgings and grounds. A true gem! Ely is wonderful and after having visited many of the other resort options, I can honestly say River Point is the best!
River Point Resort Outfitting Co is a US Lodging based in Ely, Minnesota. River Point Resort Outfitting Co is located at 12007 River Point Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA.
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