Spirit of the Wilderness Frequently Asked Questions
At Spirit of the Wilderness in Ely, MN, we’re dedicated to helping you confidently prepare for your Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) or Quetico canoe trips with expert outfitting, permit support, and gear guidance. Whether you’re planning a multi-day wilderness canoe adventure, a guided trip, or need quality canoe and kayak rentals, our full-service outfitting includes canoes, camping equipment, food packages, and route planning. We tailor trips to your experience level, interests, and group size, ensuring a safe and memorable wilderness experience. With flexible lodging options and knowledgeable staff ready to assist, contact us today to start planning and reserve your BWCA or Quetico canoe trip.
FAQ’s
1. What areas do you outfit and guide?
We outfit and guide canoe trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park—two of North America’s top wilderness paddling destinations.
2. What’s the difference between BWCAW and Quetico?
BWCAW offers easier access, maintained portages, and designated campsites with a fire grate and pit toilet. Quetico is more remote and rugged, with unmarked campsites and less-maintained portages We’ll help you choose the best option for your group.
3. Do I need a permit?
BWCAW permits are required year-round. Quota permits are reserved for May 1-September 30. These permits cost $6.00 non-refundable transaction fee, plus usage fees of $16.00/adult, $8.00 for youth.
Day-use permits are available at each entry point kiosk.
The reservation system opens the last Wednesday in January at 9 AM CT on Recreation.gov.
BWCAW permits be reserved and issued by Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters, Ely MN.
Quetico permit reservations are handled by Ontario Park Reservation Service, either online or by phone. Permits can be reserved 5 months to the date prior to a specific entry date for a specific entry point.
To enter Canada via a remote crossing, i.e Prairie Portage Ranger Station, a Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) must be applied for by mail and issued by Canadian Customs. This usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Currently, RABC application acceptance and processing has been paused. Therefore, entry into Canada must be done through Fort Frances or Thunder Bay Canadian Customs. Only Quetico entry points accessible from the north are available.
Spirit of the Wilderness is ready to guide you through obtaining a Quetico permit, applying for a RABC and Ontario fishing licences.
Call us at 218-365-3149 for more details
4. What outfitting services do you offer?
As a full-service outfitter we offer complete and partial outfitting; Aramid (kevlar) or aluminum canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle (SUP) boards, packs, tents, sleeping gear, kitchen supplies, food, maps, route planning, tow boat (water taxi) service on specific lakes, ground transportation to/from entry points and regional airports and more.
Rent everything or just what you need.
5. Do you offer guided trips?
Yes. We provide day trips and multi-day guided wilderness adventures—ideal for families, beginners, or paddlers who want expert support.
6. How do I choose a route?
We tailor routes to your interests, fitness, experience, and trip length—whether you want to base camp, fish, photograph, or travel daily.
7. Do you offer bunkroom lodging?
We offer affordable lodging at our Ely facility. Each room sleeps up to 9 people, and includes restroom w/shower, fresh clean towels for each person, medium size fridge w/freezer, microwave, coffee maker and coffee, heat or AC depending on the season, ample off-street parking.
We request you use your own sleeping bags, unless renting them from us. This allows us to keep our rates low and pass the savings onto you. Reservations are advised.
8. What is your cancellation and deposit policy?
A deposit reserves your dates and outfitting items. Cancellations must be made 15+ days in advance of your reservation to receive deposit refunds less $25.00 or 10% (whichever is greater) service fee.
Early return policy: You will be charged for equipment & canoes for the calendar days used and refund 50% for unused calendar days or 100% in-store credit. Outfitting food, permit/usage fees and fishing licenses are not refundable
9. What should I bring?
Bring personal clothing layers, rain gear, footwear, toiletries, a headlamp, and medications. We provide a full packing list based on your trip and season.
10. Are these trips beginner-friendly?
Yes. We outfit and guide many first-time paddlers. With our gear, route planning, and optional guides, beginners can enjoy a safe, confidence-building wilderness experience.
Be sure to visit our website or call Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitting and Retail Store, at 218-365-3149 for more details and to start planning your next wilderness adventure.