I'm tentatively planning a backpacking trip on the Sioux-Hustler in mid-May of 2018. Are permits for this entry point limited? Will I need to be on the ball when reservations open in January or will May not be that busy? This will be my first experience in the BWCA so please excuse my basic questions!

I don't think you'll have any problems. I have never had a problem getting a permit for hiking. I would suggest making a reservation, rather than just showing up at the Ranger Station, but in all honesty, even without reservations, I have never had a problem getting a hiking permit.

Great trail. Enjoy your trip.

quote HappyHuskies: "I don't think you'll have any problems. I have never had a problem getting a permit for hiking. I would suggest making a reservation, rather than just showing up at the Ranger Station, but in all honesty, even without reservations, I have never had a problem getting a hiking permit.

Great trail. Enjoy your trip."

Thanks for the input. Any thoughts on that time of year? I feel like May would be better than June in regards to bugs, etc.

I think May is a great time for a hike on the Sioux Hustler. The brush has not grown up yet and bugs should be either subdued or nearly non existent. Trails can be a little muddy, particularly along the river on the way into the loop. Beaver dam and stream crossings can also be wetter than later in the year, but not a big deal.

Interestingly, when I was up there this fall, the second beaver dam on the trail just before climbing up to the loop, was much drier than usual even though it was a wet year. Makes me wonder if the beaver(s) are no longer there. Anyway, I really like early hiking trips and think May is a great time to go.

I think the quota at the entry for backpacking was, like, 1000 ... meaning, essentially, no quota. That for the hiking entry with its small parking area, a separate entry from the river entry north. At least, the few times I have hiked there, though it has been several years. So, I did not bother with a reservation; just walked in to the ranger station and got a permit. Not sure if same system is still in effect, though. A call to the ranger station in Ely would be useful.