How To Plan

your Trip

Planning a Boundary Waters trip is easier than it looks once you take it in order. Start with your group, pick your dates, and we’ll help with everything after that. Cliff Wold’s can help you figure out permits, entry points, outfitting, meals, transportation, and the details that make your trip easier to manage before you reach the water.

Group with paddles ready for a Boundary Waters canoe trip from Ely, MN

Travel

Planning Process

We’ll help you move from early ideas to a clear BWCA trip plan.

Start

with Your Group

How many people are going, and what’s everyone’s experience level? Your group size, comfort with portaging, wilderness experience, and trip goals all shape the route, pace, and outfitting support that will make sense.

Pick

Your Dates

Every season has something to offer up here. Spring brings fishing opener and fewer people on the lakes. Summer is our busiest time, with warm weather and families heading out on vacation. Fall means quieter lakes, fall colors and good fishing. Whenever you decide to come, we recommend booking early to get the dates you want.

Choose

Your Route

Your entry point and route should match your group’s goals. Some paddlers want easier access and relaxed travel days. Others want deeper routes but those may come with longer days of paddling. Cliff Wold’s can help you compare options and plan a route that fits your group.

Choose Your Entry Point

Reserve

Your Permit

Secure your BWCA permit with confidence. We can help you reserve the right permit for your route, entry point, and travel dates while making sure your group is ready for the adventure ahead.

Reserve Your Permit Today

Book

Your Outfitting

Get the gear, canoes, meals, and support your group needs for the trip ahead. Whether you need a full outfitting package or just a few essentials, we’ll help you build the right setup for your route and experience level.

Make a Reservation

WE HELP YOU PLAN WITH

Confidence

Not sure where to start? You don’t need to be an expert, that’s our job. Routes, permits, packing, fishing, ask us anything before your group heads out.

Compass icon for BWCA trip planning

TRIP PLANNING AND ROUTE SUGGESTIONS

WHAT TO BRING

PERMIT AND REGULATIONS

Fish icon for Boundary Waters fishing

FISHING INFORMATION

Ready

TO START YOUR TRIP?

Let’s start building your trip. Share what you’ve got so far (dates, group, route ideas) and we’ll help with the rest.