BWCA Permits

Day trippers have the ability to be spontaneous while overnight trips require planning. Day permits can be filled out on the day you plan your trip and can be mailed on the same day. Golden Eagle Lodge has free day use permits available in the office.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is operated on a reservation system to control the number of explorers to ensure the wilderness remains as such. Permits are reserved for a specific lake entry point number on a specific day for all camping. Permits can be reserved for a specific number of days, but the exit date remains flexible. The party limit is a maximum of 9 people and a maximum of 4 watercraft.

A fee often exists for Boundary Waters excursions; however it depends on your route and number of days. With the limited numbers of permits being issued, it is in the best interest of you and your party to make reservations early if you are planning overnight adventures. The more desirable routes fill up quickly, as well as the popular holiday weekends. Lottery reservation requests are able to be placed in mid – November and processed in mid – January for the following summer in the BWCA. Mail, fax, and online reservations (earliest date being January 20) or phone reservations (starting February 1) will be awarded on a first – come, first – serve basis.

To make a reservation on your own or call 1-877-550-6777. The fee to create a reservation is $12 with a $20 deposit if the trip is an overnight. The user fee is $10 per adult and $5 per child for the entire trip. You can pick up permits at an outfitter or the USFS Ranger Station.

When making a reservation, you will have to choose a trip leader and alternate trip leader. One of these trip leaders must pick up the permit themselves and stay with the group throughout the excursion.

Great Fishing!	Wild Blue Berries

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