BWCA PERMITS
To book a BWCA (Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness) permit, you'll need to use Recreation.gov and navigate to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permit section. Reservations are required for overnight paddle trips between May 1st and September 30th. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and can be reserved online through Recreation.gov.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Create or Log in to your Recreation.gov Account:
You will need a Recreation.gov account to reserve a permit.
If you don't already have one, create an account on Recreation.gov.
2. Find the BWCA Permit Page:
Search for "Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness" on Recreation.gov.
Select "Explore available permits".
3. Choose Permit Type and Dates:
Select "Overnight Paddle" as the permit type for canoe trips.
Choose your desired entry point and entry date from the grid.
Be aware that entry points and dates cannot be changed after reservation, according to Sawtooth Outfitters.
4. Select Issuing Station and Complete Reservation:
If you are using an outfitter, select their guide service as the issuing station.
Enter your trip information and pay the required fees with a credit card.
5. Important Considerations:
Permit Availability:
Permits are released on the last Wednesday of January at 9:00 AM CST for the upcoming season according to the US Forest Service.
Entry Point:
Choose your entry point carefully based on your group's experience level and desired route, as popular entry points fill up quickly.
Group Size:
Permits are limited to nine people and four watercraft per group.
Fees:
There is a non-refundable reservation fee and usage fees based on group size.
Pick Up:
You will need to pick up your permit at the designated issuing station before your trip, either on the day of or the day before.
Self-Issued Permits:
For non-motorized day use or overnight trips outside the permit season (May 1st - September 30th), self-issued permits are available at entry points or Forest Service offices.