Skip to main content
Island River (EP34) permit

Island River (EP34) Gear Checklist

What to carry on Island River (EP34), and why. 10 more are worth the pack space.

10Total Items
10To bring

What to bring on Island River (EP34)

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    A bear-resistant container or a rope and bag for hanging food. The Forest Service requires food, trash and scented items to be stored away from your tent

  • Bring

    Water filter or treatment for every lake you drink from

  • Bring

    A map and compass for the lake chain you are paddling; portages are marked but the country is not signed like a trail system

  • Bring

    Portage pads or a yoke for the canoe, and packs you can carry in one trip if you can manage it

  • Bring

    Rain gear and a warm layer. A north wind on open water is a different climate from the parking lot

  • Bring

    A camp saw for the dead-and-downed wood the fire grate rules allow

  • Bring

    A collapsible water container so you filter once, not fifteen times

  • Bring

    Head net and repellent for the June and July bug window

  • Bring

    A spare paddle strapped in the boat

  • Bring

    Dry bags for sleeping gear

    cans and bottles are banned, but wet down is the trip-ender

9 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Plan a trip here

General backcountry gear

General backcountry kit. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness's own rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Island River (EP34)

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Some items are required seasonally. Check current regulations.