Border Route Trail Permit: Route and Dates
Border Route Trail permits are booked by advance reservation in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The route covers 53 miles.
This guide covers the Border Route Trail BWCAW permit.
$16/adult + $8/child per person per trip (May 1 to September 30 quota season) plus a $6 non-refundable reservation fee; free self-registration October 1 to April 30
Permit Cost
5-7 days
Duration
53 miles
Distance
strenuous
Difficulty
About Border Route Trail
A 53-mile trail along the Canadian border in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, from the Gunflint Trail east to McFarland Lake, connecting the Kekekabic Trail to the Superior Hiking Trail.
The Border Route Trail
- Distance
- 53 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Trip length
- 5-7 days
- Difficulty
- strenuous
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Superior National Forest, along the Minnesota-Ontario border. Nearest town: Grand Marais, MN
Points along the route
- Border Route Trail West Trailhead (Round Lake / Gunflint Trail)Mile 0, 1,744 ft
- High Cliffs OverlookMile 8.3, 1,915 ft
- Lonely LakeMile 9.4, 1,709 ft
- Bridal Veil FallsMile 15.2, 1,649 ft
- Topper LakeMile 18.4, 1,815 ft
- Mucker LakeMile 20.7, 1,650 ft
- Rose FallsMile 26, 1,652 ft
- Rove LakeMile 31.4, 1,658 ft
- John LakeMile 51.9, 1,464 ft
- McFarland Lake / Border Route Trail East TrailheadMile 53, 1,465 ft
Border Route Trail permit detailsandAll Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permits
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This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Border Route Trail permit?
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Border Route Trail permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When can I use a Border Route Trail permit?
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The season typically runs May 1 (quota permit season opens) to September 30 (quota permit season ends; self-issued permits October 1 to April 30). Check with BWCAW for exact dates.
How long is the Border Route Trail route?
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The route is 53 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 5-7 days.
How difficult is the Border Route Trail route?
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This is a strenuous route, demanding and requires excellent fitness.
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