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Angleworm - Hegman Lakes Ski Route

As an ungroomed trail, the Angleworm - Hegman Lakes Ski Route is available for both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. This is wilderness skiing within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.  It is not groomed, so skiers need to be familiar with backcountry skiing and be able to navigate with map and compass. Skiers should have backcountry equipment capable of handling deep snow.

Skate skiing is possible under some conditions on the lakes. Skiers will be using both summer portage trails and frozen lakes to navigate this route.  Be aware of ice thickness and safety when skiing  on lakes.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

5181

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Safety

 You have the responsibility to be adequately prepared for a trip in the wilderness with 

  • good footwear,
  • ample water,
  • emergency supplies, and
  • sufficient time to make the trip. 

You should be self sufficient: there is no cell phone coverage, and due to the nature of the trail, there is no easy way to get assistance in, nor any easy way to get people out in emergencies.

Travel

  • A compass and accurate map are essential.
  • Bring reliable maps. Maps can be purchased at some Forest Service offices, area businesses and outfitters, or directly from the map companies.
  • If you get lost, don’t panic. Sit down, relax and think. Chances are that you will figure out your location in a few minutes.
  • If you plan to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigating, be sure you also bring a map and compass as a back up in case your GPS unit fails.
  • Dress in layers and be prepared for every kind of weather situation.

You will need a permit to enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

  • BWCAW entry point #

When visiting, please remember

  • Trails are for non-motorized use only.
  • Only use facilities that are provided.

Pets/Dogs

  • Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
  • Do not allow them to interact with wildlife.

Make sure to thoroughly read the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness page and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip Planning Guide for tips on wilderness trip preparation.

Prior to reserving your permit, please also review the following:

Kawishiwi building

Address: 1393 Highway 169 Ely, MN 55731
Phone: (218) 365-7600
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends. No BWCAW permit issuance and no retail sales products. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov

Getting There

Parking

There is parking available off the Echo Trail.

Additional Information

Operated By

USDA Forest Service

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated August 6th, 2025