October 1 to April 30 - Self-issued permits are required for non-motorized day use visitors year-round and for all overnight visitors entering the BWCAW.

May 1 to September 30 - Any visitor taking an overnight trip (paddle, motor, or hiking) or a motorized day trip is required to obtain a quota permit (reserved or walk-in).

All quota permits for entry points are released on a first come, first served basis at 9:00 a.m. CT on the last Wednesday in January.

BWCA is built for paddlers but a great resource for planning, many links in one place.

Shout out Ely, Minnesota, so many great restaurants and other attractions, makes it more than just the back country.