ELY, Minn. — Although we're barely into the heart of a Minnesota winter, paddlers are already dreaming of pristine lakes and the treasured outdoor experience offered by the Boundary Waters.
The U.S. Forest Service announced Monday that the 2025 Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)permit reservation process opens on January 29 at 9 a.m. Permits are required for groups visiting the popular wilderness area between May 1 and Sept. 30. Those seeking permits are encouraged to apply online by using a special page on the U.S. Forest Service website but applications can also be made by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
To make sure you're ready when applications open, Superior National Forest (SNF) Managers recommend that you:
- Check out the site dedicated to BWCAW trip planning and carefully consider whether a primitive wilderness trip is the best option for your group. You might discover a gem of a campsite outside the Wilderness (265 of them!) that provides a unique backcountry experience with no permit reservations or visitor use fees required.
- Plan ahead by having at least three travel options (dates and entry points) before making a reservation: Exploring new destinations is part of a wilderness experience!
- Reserve only the permit(s) you can use. Choose an entry point that fits your skill level and a trip date that works for your schedule.
- When a permit holder makes multiple reservations in their name on the same entry date or has overlapping reservations, all but one permit will be canceled by the Forest Service without notification, because a group leader can only lead one trip at a time.
- Do your research now. Look online for route planning guidebooks, trip ideas and information. You can also contact local outfitters, guides, resorts or cooperator permit issuing stations. Refer to the back page of the BWCAW Trip Planning Guide for more information.
Potential visitors are reminded that the BWCAW is a federally regulated area with established regulations and rules. Permit holders are responsible for sharing the Leave No Trace Video series with their entire group prior to arrival.
The Superior National Forest is a three million-acre wilderness area bordered by Canada, Lake Superior and Voyageurs National Park. It is considered the largest national forest east of the Mississippi River.