top of page

BWCA Day Trips: Canoe & Motor Access from Ely

Day trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) are possible by both canoe and motorboat — but permit requirements differ depending on how you enter.

​

At Packsack Canoe Trips, we help guests understand the difference between free non-motorized day use permits and reserved motor permits, so your trip is legal, smooth, and stress-free.

Image of a family enjoying a Boundary Waters day trip out of a Kevlar canoe rental from Packsack canoe trips in Ely.

BWCA Day Use Permits (Non-Motorized)

Non-motorized BWCA day trips (canoe or kayak) require a Self-Issued BWCA Day Use Permit, which is:

  • Free

  • Not quota-restricted

  • Available at entry points and Forest Service stations

​​

These permits allow:

  • Day paddling

  • Fishing

  • Exploration

  • Same-day exit (no overnight camping)

​

⚠️ Overnight camping is not allowed on a day use permit.

Motorized Day Trips on Basswood Lake (Permit Required)

Motorboats are allowed on designated areas of Fall Lake, Newton Lake, and Basswood Lake, but motor use requires a separate permit — even for day trips.

​

Motor Permit Requirements

  • Paid motor permit

  • Reservation required

  • Quota-limited

  • Reserved through Recreation.gov

  • Horsepower and route restrictions apply

​

Motor permits can be secured in advance or walk in permits may be available. Availability can be limited during peak season.

Canoe Day Trips into the BWCA

Canoe-based day trips do not require reservations and are a popular option for:

​

  • Families

  • First-time BWCA visitors

  • Flexible schedules

  • Guests staying in Ely or on Fall Lake​

​

👉 View Canoe Rentals
👉 Partial Outfitting Options

Motor Day Trip Routes to Basswood Lake

With the correct motor permit, boaters may:

​

  • Launch from Fall Lake

  • Travel through the Fall–Newton–Basswood route

  • Operate motors only where permitted

  • Fish and explore Basswood Lake during the day

  • Return to Fall Lake the same day

​

Because routes, portages, and conditions vary, local knowledge is extremely important for safe and legal travel.

​

👉 We’re happy to explain permit requirements and route considerations before your trip.

Picture of a BWCA waterfalls taken on a day trip into the Boundary Waters in Ely, Minnesota

Fishing on BWCA Day Trips (Canoe or Motor)

Fishing in the Boundary Waters is world class, fishing on a day trip is a great way to experience the BWCA, and taking your catch home to eat is a real possibility with day trips.

​

Fishing is allowed with:

  • A valid Minnesota fishing license

  • The correct BWCA permit (day use or motor)

​

Motorized fishing is limited to:

  • Waters where motors are permitted

  • Permit-approved routes and horsepower limits

Plan Your BWCA Day Trip with Confidence

Whether you need:

​

​​

We’ll help you do it legally, safely, and correctly.

👉 Contact Packsack Canoe Trips

bottom of page