Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Permit & Season Information

A permit is always required to enter the BWCA Wilderness: 

  • Self Issued permits are required for ALL visitors 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).
  • Self Issued permits are required for non-motorized day use visitors year-round and for all overnight visitors entering the BWCAW from October 1 – April 30. Self Issued permits are also required for Day Use Motor visitors from October 1 - April 30. 
  • Visitors taking an overnight paddle, motor or hiking trip, or a motorized day trip into the BWCAW from May 1 – September 30 are required to obtain a quota permit through Recreation.gov. Walk-In permits may be obtained at any permit issuing station on the entry date or one day prior when available, however, reservations are recommended since there are a limited number of quota permits for each entry point. 
  • One permit per group; 9 people and 4 watercraft limit.

Important Dates

DatesInformation
May 1 - September 30Quota Season
October 1 - April 30Non-Quota Season
Last Wednesday of January at 9:00am CTPermits for all entry points are available on the last Wednesday of January at 9:00 a.m. CT

How Does the Quota Work for this Permit?

Quota

A quota system limits the number of groups entering the BWCAW each day by limiting the number of permits available for each entry point. Quotas reduce natural resource damage and help to protect the Wilderness for future generations.

Group Size

Nine people and four watercraft are the maximum allowed together in the BWCA Wilderness. You may not exceed the limit as a group at any time or anywhere (on water, portages and campsites) in the BWCAW. Smaller groups enhance the wilderness experience, chances of seeing wildlife, and decrease resource impacts.