You’re 30 miles from the nearest light bulb,
but we still need to shine a little light on the rule book.
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and Quetico Provincial Park are operated on a reservation system. Permits are reserved for a specific lake entry point on a specific day and are issued for a specific number of days. Each party is limited to a maximum of nine people and a maximum of four water-crafts.
Your outfitter can help you get the right permit for the route you want, and make the reservation for you. As cooperators with the USDA Forest Service, your outfitter is licensed to issue your permit and give you instructions in “leave no trace” camping.
Permits & Fees: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
Permit reservations require a designated trip leader; however, alternate leaders may be listed. One of these designated leaders must pick up the permit in person, and remain with the group throughout the trip. Ask your outfitters to make a permit reservation for you or call 1-877-550-6777 or visit the reservation site.
For information about the permit system, including fees and lottery reservations, please visit Permits & Fees: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) for current information.
Permits & Fees: Quetico Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada
Your outfitter will assist you in securing and paying for Quetico Provincial Park permits. If you wish to make a reservation on your own, call 1-888-668-7275.
For Canadian/Quetico travel:
A valid passport or approved travel document is required – please visit the Homeland Security website for more information. Information about the I-68 requirements is available here.
You will also need a Remote Border Crossing Permit for each member of your party…
Remote Area Border Crossing Permits (RABC)
If you want to visit Canada at any point during your stay (including canoeing in Quetico Provincial Park or fishing on the Canadian side) a Remote Area Border Crossing Permit is required, since you are not reporting to a port of entry. There is a per person fee, renewable annually. The easiest way to obtain the Remote Area Border Crossing Permit application is online. Follow the instructions, and be sure to allow 4-6 weeks for the application to be processed. If you prefer, an outfitter can mail you a copy of the necessary paperwork.
