Looking for someone who might be able to run down the process of getting permits and a weeklong (Sun-Sun) trip with multiple overnights, not looking to be in/around any big water but how does one string out campsites to get appropriate permits and proper put-in places. Looking for max exclusion. Avid outdoorsman, geared up, just looking for a decent - already travelled - route with associated campsites. Appreciate any guidance in advance!

You would start by going to the Reservations.gov website, choosing permits, then Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. When that page opens, choose "Explore available permits". The next page appears at first to just be an error page but it waiting for you to make a choice near the top left called, "Select permit type". Once that is completed it will show the entry points. You should specify the dates you are interested in as soon as you select permit type and it will show the entry points and availability for the 10 days following your date of choice. There is a little information available for each entry point to let you know the distance from the parking lot to the actual entry.

There is a lot more information available on the top of this forum where it shows maps and entry points. For instance, should you choose June 6th, Angleworm lake has 2 permits available. From the parking lot to the lake is a 640 rd portage (about 2 miles) and there are 2 permits available per day for that entry. If you click on the map it shows the lakes and portages and campsites. Clicking on the yellow line (portage) will give you more information from someone who has taken it. Likewise, clicking on a campsite will pull up reviews, some with pictures.

Sharpey, I suggest you click on planning at the top of the page and review the rules there.

Briefly, you need a permit for entry. You will be looking for an Overnight Paddle permit. The permit is specific to both the date you enter and the place you enter - the Entry Point (EP). Permits are limited with each EP have its own quota. You can reserve your own at rec.gov . You can also have an outfitter acquire it for you.

Do you have a specific date you are locked into or do you have flexibility? There is no sense planning a route from an EP that has no available permits for your date.

You must stay at a designated campsite. They are first-come, first served - not reservable. Travel in the BW involves a lot of variables - weather, speed - paddling and portaging, your interests while there, etc.

Seclusion is more likely the farther you travel from EPs.