What is a BWCAW permit?
Put simply, its a formal document similar to a park pass. Issued permits allow visitors to enter and travel through the wilderness. There are two ways to secure a BWCAW permit. Before you do, there are some important details to know:
- Permits are required for all groups visiting the BWCAW. Visiting the Quetico requires and additional RABC permit.
- There are different types of permits – day use, overnight paddle, overnight hike, day use motor, etc.
- From May 1st – September 30th, all permits must be reserved online in advance, with the exception of non-motorized day use permits.
- From October 1st – April 30th, all permit types are self issued at entry points.
- Permits become available the last Wednesday of January each year.
- Permits operate on a quota system and are limited.
- Overnight permits are specific to entry point and entry date.
- Permits limit group size to nine people and four watercraft.
- Permits are managed by the U.S. Forest Service and available permits can be found on Recreation.gov.
- Alternate leaders are members of your group authorized to pick up the permit in the event the group leader cannot make it. Alternate leaders can only be designated during initial permit purchase.
- You can remove or add group members up until the permit is issued.
- Permits must be picked up in person at a ranger station or cooperator (that’s us!) by the group leader or an alternate leader.
- Everyone has equal access to permits – cooperators do not receive an allocation of permits.
What does a permit cost?
- A $6 non-refundable permit fee.
- $16/adult and $8/youth (17 and under).
- The base cost is always two adults and the permit fee = $38.
- If a permit is cancelled more than 48hours prior to entry date, you will be refunded everything except the $6 fee.
How do I obtain a permit?
Option 1: You purchase one online! Begin by visiting Recreation.gov and search for your desired entry point and date. From there, simply follow the prompts and submit your payment info. Remember to designate any alternate leaders if you wish. Navigating the site can be a little tough, so please contact us if you have questions!
Option 2: Give us a call! We are happy to help you in the process. To secure a permit for you, we will need you to provide the following:
- Your name, address, email address and phone number.
- Your payment information.
- First name, last name and email address of any alternate leaders you wish to add.
We will use your contact and payment information to purchase a permit. This ensures the permit cost is covered, and makes any charges or refunds regarding the permit much easier.
We base route suggestions on available permits, and work hard to find a permit and route right for you. If your desired Entry date or point is not available, you will need to consider a different timeframe or route.
Can I make changes to my permit?
Yes! Once your permit has been reserved you make some changes, and will need to log into your Recreation.gov account to do so.
You CAN change:
- Who is in your group – Except the group leader. Note that changing and alternate leaders will remove their alternate status.
- How many people are in your group – Up to nine maximum. You can add or remove members up until your permit is issued.
- Your exit point and exit date. Be sure to confirm those changes with your outfitter!
You CANNOT change:
- Your entry point or date – These are set in stone unless you fully cancel you reserved permit.