Birl Lake
Birl refers to the logging practice (most typically in the northern U.S.) of rapidly treading on a floating log in order to get it rotating.
Birl Lake is the first of three little lakes all interconnected by small creeks that drain into Makwa Lake. There is not a portage trail on any maps that I have researched that connect Birl Lake to Makwa Lake. However, given the short distance, there is almost certainly an ad hoc trail to be found.
There was a large fire in this area around 1863-1864. This fire is known as the North Kawishiwi River/Alice Lake/Cypress Lake/Saganaga Lake Complex. This burn began south of the current BWCAW's southern boundary near the town of Isabella, Minnesota.
Approach to Birl Lake
There is a good chance that a portage trail of some sort can be found in the small bay near the western end of Makwa Lake that leads into Birl Lake.
Bushwhack to Birl Lake
Whether a trail exists or not, the entire bushwhack is through the forest for less than 20 rods.
Exploring Birl Lake
Surprisingly there are no trip reports on this little lake. Birl Lake is an easy PMA lake to visit along with its two small neighbors. These would be excellent lakes to visit if you want to get off the main thoroughfare and find some solitude.
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