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CANOE TRIP LOGISTICS
 Well it's that time of year when some of you find yourselves already getting tired of winter....ah, well....ok! Many of you (us included) haven't had much if any winter yet. Never the less, you're thinking about getting away from the crowd. Now is the time of the year to start getting your ducks in a row for your annual (or maybe your first time) canoe trip. One of the important things in planning a canoe trip is knowing the process. Many of the "veterans" are familiar with the permit systems for either the Boundary Waters or Quetico Park and choose to make their own reservations. Others are content to let us take care of the "paperwork". We're happy to help either way. The following points are a few of the main logistical things that you should be aware of.
First are the differences in the two reservation systems. Quetico Park permits are available 5 months, to the day in advance of the actual trip starting date. A permit for July 1st becomes available on Feb. 1st. July 15th is not available until Feb. 15th...you get the idea. All other permits prior to the current date are "in play", meaning if they weren't reserved when they became available, they're still open. Boundary Waters permits, on the other hand, become available for for all entry points (except Moose and Fall Lakes which are currently open to application for drawing on Jan.20th) January 25th, on a first come, first served basis.  Camping fees are often a determining factor when choosing between the parks. Each has a minimal reservation fee for booking the permit. The big difference are the camping fees. The Quetico Park camping fees (through the southern entry at Prairie Portage) are $21.50 per night per adult and $8.50 per night per youth. The Boundary Waters charges $16 per adult and $8 per youth, however those fees are for the entire trip, regardless of the number of days or nights. Once you have decided on your entry point and have secured the permit(s) you are obligated to enter on that date and entry point. For a Boundary Waters trip, other than fishing licenses (if desired) there generally isn't anything else logistically required beyond that for securing the entry. Additional issues for going into Quetico Park include the CanPass (or Remote Area Border Crossing Pass) to enter Canada at a remote location and a passport (or documentation for youth) to re-enter the U.S. from Canada.  Whether you choose The Boundary Waters or Quetico Park, be aware that there are popular times that fill up quickly. Mid July (weekend of the 14th) through mid August weekend of the 11th) is the peak of the season. Historically, Sundays and Mondays are the most popular days to start and Fridays are the most common "off the water" day. The logistical process for starting your canoe trip plans can be a little confusing, but be assured that we're happy to help you through it. Also, for those of you that are more comfortable with the process, check out the "New for 2012" items below. And remember, either way, we look forward to being a part of your 2012 canoe trip plans.
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Indianapolis Customer Night - Reminder
For all of you in the Indianapolis area remember that tonight is the Customer Night-North Woods Rendezvous at the Indianapolis Marriott North. Bring all of your friends that are interested in learning more about the Boundary Waters. If you have never been drop by to see if this might be for you. The program begins at 7 pm. As always there will a great presentation, door prizes, and refreshments. We look forward to seeing you there.
Indianapolis Marriott North
3645 River Crossing Parkway
Indianapolis, IN 46240
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