Tim Bates: An Unsung Hero of the Boundary Waters

Tim Bates met his wife on the Gunflint Trail. For decades, he paddled and portaged a canoe past thousands of BWCA visitors, though most never knew his name. A gifted paddler and wilderness enthusiast, Tim passed away in December 2025 after a battle with prostate cancer. He was 60. Tim worked at the University of Minnesota Duluth outdoor education program. He was also a co-founder of the Duluth Folk School. He was a certified canoe instructor who introduced the Boundary Waters to many people during the past 30 years.  In this episode, we hear the story of Tim Bates, a quiet legend of the Boundary Waters.  This episode is supported by Bent Paddle Brewing Company and Friends of the Boundary Waters.  Special thanks to Julie Bates, Kelly Bates, Ken Gilbertson, and Pat Kohlin for making this episode possible.