sedges: "Years ago I was contemplating a repeat of a Rainy to Grand Portage trip I had done in 1968, before the current permit system was established...
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An historic trip! Must have been fun. Nice when there are less people and minimal red tape, but it will still be a good adventure nowadays, no doubt.
Thanks for all the other thoughts as well. I didn't realize the VNP office was so handy to the river. I'm guessing starting to paddle at first light can be helpful in the BWCA when wind is being an issue?