This is a small, weedy lake where BWCA Entry Point 39 is located. The only route from Baker Lake is to the north into Peterson Lake over a 35 rod portage. If water levels are really low, this portage can become much longer and more difficult and may also require paddling a short distance between carries.
From Peterson Lake you have to portage one more lake further north into Kelly Lake before more route options open up. This second portage into Kelly Lake can also be avoided if there is enough water. The Temperance River flows through Baker Lake and out its south end. It's a scenic route from Baker Lake up to Brule Lake.
There are no campsites on Baker Lake. The lakes does support a population of northern pike and walleye.
Besides the Temperance River, another small creek named Horn Creek flows into Baker Lake.
The Baker Lake Rustic Campground is also located here. You can camp here for free and reservations are not required. It is a small campground, so don't arrive too late, otherwise you may find it full. You could just basecamp at the campground and explore the other lakes in the area with an empty canoe. Sure would make those portages easy.
Have not been able to determine who this lake is named after yet.
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PADDLING FROM THE BWCA ENTRY POINT 39 LANDING TO THE PETERSON LAKE PORTAGE
Baker Lake from the entry point landing. Heading to your left leads to Peterson Lake. The Temperance River flows out of Baker Lake to the right just out of view (July 10, 2016).
This was during a period of low water levels in October, 2024. As you approach the Peterson Lake portage, the bottom of the nearly dry Temperance River is visible to the right (October 6, 2024).
Looking northeasterly from the entry point landing (July 10, 2016).
A view of the south end of shallow Baker Lake (July 10, 2016). (Image not expandable.)
From the entry point canoe landing, you can see the majority of Baker Lake. The entire lake is only about 20 acres (July 10, 2016).
Portage to Peterson Lake -or- Explore Another Route ***********************************************END OF ROUTE***********************************************
PADDLING FROM THE PETERSON LAKE PORTAGE TO THE BWCA ENTRY POINT 39 LANDING
Low water levels expose the rocks of the Temperance River bed to the right as you pull away from the portage (October 6, 2024).
Explore BWCA Entry Point 39 -or- Explore Another Route ***********************************************END OF ROUTE***********************************************
