BWCAW Permits and Entry Points
One of the most important aspects of planning a canoe trip is obtaining an entry permit. Daily limits are set for each entry point by the U.S. Forest Service.For best selection, you should apply as early as possible. Permits are available through the season, but you will need to be a bit more flexible concerning both date and entry point as time passes. Weekend departures and dates from the middle of July until the middle of August fill up first.
Please remember that you must depart on the date of your permit at the chosen entry point. Delays due to travel or weather are not honored.
As with all aspects of your trip, Duane's will help with the permit process. We are a Forest Service cooperator and issue BWCAW permits at our base, so you can pick up your permit when you arrive for your orientation. A permit allows a group of 9 campers and four canoes. Larger groups will require separate permits, and must stay separated throughout the trip.
To reserve your permit today please visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permit page on Recreation.gov.
When Permits Are Released
Overnight paddle permits are required from May 1 through September 30 and are limited by a daily quota for each entry point. Reservations open on Recreation.gov at 9:00 a.m. Central Time on the last Wednesday in January, and you can also reserve by phone at 1-877-444-6777. Outside the quota season, overnight visitors use free self-issued permits available at the entry points. Day-use visitors also need a permit year-round.User Fees
The U.S Forest Service charges a user fee in addition to the permit required for overnight travel in the BWCAW. The overnight user fee is $16.00 per adult per trip. The user fee is $8.00 for anyone age 17 and under, or for anyone that holds a Senior or Access pass. This user fee applies to any overnight trip in the BWCAW between May 1st and September 30, the same period as quota permits are required.Reserving a permit also carries a $6.00 non-refundable reservation fee paid to Recreation.gov. A minimum deposit of $32.00 is collected when you reserve, and the balance of your user fees is paid when you pick up your permit. This fee has been established to allow the U.S. Forest Service to provide services and enforcement to better protect the BWCAW. Fees and cancellation rules are set by the Forest Service and can change; the Forest Service has discussed raising BWCAW user fees in future years, so check Recreation.gov for the current amounts before you reserve.
Picking Up Your Permit and the Leave No Trace Videos
Permits must be picked up on your entry date or the day before at the issuing station named on your reservation, such as our canoe base. The permit holder, or an alternate leader named on the reservation, must be present. Before pickup, your group should watch the first two Forest Service Leave No Trace videos, and the third is shown when the permit is issued. Carry your permit with you at all times during your trip.Entry Point Transportation Charges
Our delivery and pick-up service provides you with more flexibility in your trip planning. You can begin at one entry point and return to another. Free parking at our base gives you extra peace of mind.We are authorized to provide canoe outfitting services into the BWCAW under permit by the U.S. Forest Service, This permit signifies complete insurance coverage and professional outfitting service.
| Entry # | Entry Point Name | Full | Partial |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Crab & Cummings | Free | $30.00 |
| 14 | Indian Sioux South | $50.00 | $75.00 |
| 16 | Moose/Portage North | Free | $70.00 |
| 23 | Mudro | Free | $50.00 |
| 24 | Fall Lake | Free | $35.00 |
| 25 | Moose Lake | Free | $50.00 |
| 30 | Lake One | Free | $50.00 |
| 32 | South Kawishiwi River | Free | $35.00 |
| 33 | Gabbro Lake | Free | $35.00 |
| 35 | Isabella Lake | Free | $75.00 |
| 36 | Hog Creek | $50.00 | $85.00 |
| Any Point | Gunflint Trail | $200.00 | $250.00 |
- All prices are one way and per van 9 people maximum per van.
- "Full" applies to guests with complete outfitting; "Partial" applies to partially outfitted groups. Please call to confirm current transportation charges.
Choosing an Entry Point
Entry points near our base range from easy, lake-to-lake routes to remote rivers with longer portages. Fall Lake and Moose Lake give quick access to big water and to Basswood Lake and the Canadian border. Lake One, the South Kawishiwi River and Gabbro Lake lead into the Kawishiwi River country with many loop options. Mudro and Crab and Cummings start with portages and quickly leave the crowds behind, and Isabella Lake and Hog Creek reach the quieter southern part of the wilderness. Tell us how far you want to travel, how many portages you are comfortable with, and whether fishing is a priority, and we will suggest entry points that match. Our Boundary Waters trip planning guide covers the rest of the process.Ely Area Entry Points
Frequently Asked Questions
When do BWCA permits go on sale?On the last Wednesday of January at 9:00 a.m. Central Time, on Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
How much does a Boundary Waters permit cost?
The overnight user fee is $16.00 per adult and $8.00 for youth 17 and under or Senior and Access pass holders, plus a $6.00 reservation fee. Check Recreation.gov for current fees.
Can we start on a different day or entry point if our plans change?
No. You must enter on the date and at the entry point shown on your permit. Delays due to travel or weather are not honored.
Where do we pick up our permit?
At the issuing station on your reservation, on your entry date or the day before. If you choose Duane's as your issuing station, we issue it at our base during your orientation.