Boundary Waters Trip Planning
Interested in planning a canoe trip but not sure where to start? Many outfitting businesses provide route and trip planning options as well as gear rental, guiding services, and even lodging before and after your camping trip.
Permit opener is January 26, 2022! We recommend getting your permits earlier this year since they are limited. You can reserve your permit at Recreation.gov when they become available.
Photo: Nate Ptacek
Need help looking for a route or figuring out what to pack?
Check out the two blogs below:
A permit is always required to enter the BWCA Wilderness:
- Visitors taking an overnight paddle or hiking trip into the BWCAW from May 1 – September 30 are required to obtain a quota permit through Recreation.gov.
- Self Issued permits are required for day use visitors year-round and for all overnight visitors entering the BWCAW from October 1 – April 30. Self Issued permits are available from kiosks at BWCAW entry points and Forest Service offices (no reservation required and no recreation fees).
A BWCAW permit allows a group of up to 9 people and 4 watercraft to enter the wilderness.
Please read and follow all of the Boundary Waters Wilderness Rules and Regulations.
Contact one of these northern MN Boundary Waters Business Coalition members to help you plan & outfit your canoe trip:
Check out more Boundary Waters Business supporters here.
Do you just need a little help with route planning maps? Try Paddle Planner. It’s a great route-planning tool (and many outfitters use it too!)
