My family, myself, and our staff are proud to be part of a legacy of so many adventures, expeditions, and life-long memories made for over 40 years.
Whether portaging over a wilderness trail or as part of your daily commute, your stories and experiences have become our heritage of crafting the toughest gear right here at the edge of the Boundary Waters in Ely, Minnesota. A Legacy:
Portage North, formerly Kondos Outdoors, was born in Ely in 1980 out of a need from outfitters requiring gear that withstands the rigors of being on trail all seas
05/05/2026
Start your Minnesota summer with Minnesota spirit!
The Prospector Satchel -- built in Ely, MN, now in Saskatoon and Sorrel
Ready for everything from waterfall stops to everyday carry.
Simple. Durable. Minnesota Made.
05/04/2026
Built for the kind of work that doesn't take shortcuts.
When organizations, like , operate in the Boundary Waters day in and day out, they need gear that is dependable, they don't guess...
..they choose what works.
Proud to build gear that earns that kind of trust.
Durable, Purposeful, Ingenuituve.
Thats not just Portage North, that's Ely, MN
Proudly
Kondos Outdoors
PBS North
Incredible Ely
Simple. Tough. Ely-made.
11/16/2025
Firewood duty never looked this good.
The Gatherer Wood Sling — tough enough for the woods, refined enough for the cabin.
Shop it here: https://portagenorth.com/gatherer
Made in Ely, Minnesota. Built to haul, built to last.
10/28/2025
Introducing the Guide Pack 32 – Special Edition.
A new color-blocked design inspired by the Northwoods: Copper body, Sorrel lid, Blueberry accents.
Same legendary durability. Same Made in Ely build.
Just a fresh take on a timeless classic.
https://portagenorth.com/guide-pack-32/?attribute_pa_color=copper
08/31/2024
🆕🔥 Introducing the Prospector Satchel !!
The perfect blend of rugged durability and timeless style is here! 👜✨ Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or navigating city streets, the Prospector Satchel is your ideal companion.
Premium Quality: Made with ultra-durable Cordura® 1000D fabric.
✔️ Fresh Look: Features our new range of fabric colors.
✔️ Functional Design: Plenty of space and pockets to keep you organized.
✔️ Versatile Style: Complements both outdoor adventures and city life.
Carry adventure with you wherever you go! 🌍💼
🔗 https://portagenorth.com/prospector-satchel/
07/16/2024
We're looking forward to seeing everyone at the Winter Camping Symposium . Can't wait!!
Registration for the 2024 Winter Camping Symposium is now open! A couple of notes, please make sure that you register for both the event and whether you will be camping or staying in a cabin. Registration for camping only, will not allow you access to the classes, speakers, and entertainment . A new rule this year for all YMCA camps, is that no dogs are allowed, unless it is a certified service dog. Thank you for all your support!
If you have any questions, please feel free to message us on Facebook, or email us at [email protected]
06/13/2024
Do you love wild places only accessible by canoe and portage?
Portage North exists to put you there with gear you can trust and the knowledge to use it! Check out some of our new how-to articles below and see how we can be a part of your adventures this summer!
| Tuesday | 10am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 10am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 5pm |
| Friday | 10am - 5pm |