- 1). Research your trip. The BWCAW has over 1,000 lakes and 1,500 miles of streams and rivers. It's a good idea to become familiar with the terrain. Study maps of the different regions to get a feel for what each area has to offer. Decide what is important on your trip, whether it's waterfalls and rapids, large lakes, towering cliffs, ancient pictographs, fishing or wildlife.
- 2). Reserve a permit. Visitors to the BWCAW must enter the wilderness via a pre-selected entry point. Permits are required and are valid only for the stated entry point on the stated day of the permit. Some entry points allow up to 18 permits a day to enter the wilderness; others limit entry to one. This quota system helps limit use and ensures that the 2,200 campsites in the BWCAW will be available. Permits are available through the U.S. Forest Service online (see Resources) or at any of the Superior National Forest ranger stations.
- 3). Exercise prior to your trip. Carrying a 16-foot canoe over your head with a 60-pound pack on your shoulders a half-mile from one lake to the next can be a challenging physical workout. Many of the portage trails in the BWCAW are boulder-strewn and littered with tree roots, are usually quite muddy and frequently follow severe elevation changes. Travel can also be difficult on some of the larger lakes, where wind can become a serious impediment and test your paddling endurance.
- 4). Practice outdoor skills. Know how to build a fire, even when conditions are wet. Practice tying your food pack high in a tree and securing it with the proper knots before you go. Know proper first aid and how to use a compass and read a map. Dialing 911 isn't a reliable option in the BWCAW, and even with a satellite phone, help may be a few days away.
- 5). Follow a gear checklist. Good checklists are available online from the many outfitters that supply services to the BWCAW. You can use them as a packing guide for what you'll need in the wilderness. If you don't own a necessary piece of gear, consider renting from an outfitter. Most outfitters can supply everything you need or provide any items you may be lacking.
- 6). Check with outfitters or rangers before entry. You will need to pick up your permit prior to entry. This is the perfect time to get the most recent updates on water levels, blowdowns, fire restrictions or activity, recent bear encounters and the latest weather forecast. You may even pick up a hot tip on where the fish are biting along your planned route.
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