jjj-
You might like the Kekekabic Trail.  It is a several day hike from the Ely area up to the Gunflint Trail.  You can see its route on a canoeing map.  There is a group which looks after it...the Kekekabic Trail Club...they travel the trail yearly clearing up fallen trees, making the route clear for travelers and take care of some small bridges.  I am sure there is a lot of information on the web about the trail.
Regarding tippy canoes....they all feel that way at first.  Do you not swim?  Wear a life vest when you are out in the canoe and should you tip, you are only wet, no real disaster.  It takes a while to feel comfortable in a canoe but it comes with time spent in the canoe.   ;)