If I were to take my motorcycle up to the north side of the park ,with my sleeping gear and important clothes crammed into my 30liter blue barrel and my other stuff rolled up into half of my #3  Deluth pack ,could I buy food enough to fill my barrel up there,to fuel me back to the south end of the park? I'm thinking ramen noodles or rice and foil packets of tuna or chicken,or maybe jerky ...oatmeal,raisons,coffee or tea,and maybe a bottle of whiskey. ...? Sustanence only. I'm a poor fisherman. How could I arrange a shuttle back? Is that too ambitious? Would some modification be more feasable?   I'm thinking early September. I,as of now,do not yet have an entry permit,but am very open on time. What do I do to get an open permit? Who should I hook up with for conoe/paddle/etc.,rental? Is that too far /expensive to have an outfitter go to retrive his boat?  Is this doable?       What do You all think? I very greatly respect the opinion of everyone on this site,and could only continue to make this happen with some guidance from experienced conoe trippers as I know frequent QJ.  My thanks,ahead of time...

I don't remember there being a grocery store in Atikokan - you would have better luck buying groceries in Ft Francis if coming from the West, or Thunder Bay if coming from the East.  You could always get fz dr foods from any of the outfitters in Atikokan.

getting a permit starting out of French Lake is just a matter of getting in line there at the ranger station the morning you want to enter (unless the unlikely happens and two other parties are ahead of you that day for the two unreserved spots).  fairly likely to be able to get a permit for a Batchewaung entry as well, especialy if you are flexible and able to start on a weekday.

shuttle?  contact any of the outfitters in Atikokan (just google for atikokan outfitters) and see waht they would charge you for a package - canoe rental and shuttle - alternatively, you could arrange to leave your cycle in US, ad get an outfitter to rent a boat and shuttle you up to Atikokan, and you paddle back to your bike - you would have to have the outfitter meet you at the take out of course, so they could get thier boat back.

what do I think ?   - I think it is gonna be expensive - I did pay for an outfitter to shuttle a group of four from Ely to Beaverhouse Lake entry, and we paddled one-way back to Moose Lake in BWCA - that was in mid-nineties sometime, and cost about $250 at that time, just for the shuttle ride north.

only way you'll find out is to contact outfitters now and ask them how much

I only did a one-way trip that once -mostly I just plan a loop trip and finish back at my truck where I started - lots easier

There is food, gear and an LCBO in Atikokan so no worries there.  Never heard of an open permit though.  Can't help with the return trip shuttle. 

Thanks.After getting off this site last night,I got Beymer's Quetico Guide off my shelf and had a  lot of my questions answered. It now seems to me that a loop would make much more sense.By "open"permit,I ment available. It's not getting too late?  If Atikoken is a town,and not just
an out post,many of my concerns are taken care of. Any pitfalls to watch for? This would be my first trip to Canada. I'm just now applying for my passport. Being semi- selfemployed,the time is not as important as the money. Again,thanks for the imput,and even more so for your patience.

Would leaving my bike at ranger station be 'cool'? I suppose I better talk to a couple of outfitters. Guess I'm going  about this bass ackwards.  The less food I pack on the bike the more gear I can take. Not so very much room back there. My pickup would be easier,but cost a whole lot more to drive up there,and I'd miss out on the 360 degree view...I might miss a warm dry cab on the way out...     :-/

I've never had a problem with my vehicle at a parking lot on the north side of Q but I've never parked a motorcycle either.  Chain it to a tree?  Atikokan is a small town with year round residents so it has everything one might need but since you will be renting a canoe anyway you can leave your bike at the outfitter I assume.  I would pick a date and get a permit and hook up with an outfitter and rent your gear too.  What you save in gas you would spend in rentals.  Sounds like fun though.

Last year we worked with Quetico North outfitters, right on Hwy 2, just east of Atikokan.  We did a north-to-south traverse through the Park.  It was a bit of a hassle getting it set up, but once on the water, it was wonderful.  Here's how we did it:

1. Before the trip we arranged with Canadian Border Outfitters on Moose lake, to allow us to park a truck and canoe trailer in their parking lot, and we arranged for a tow with them from Prairie Portage to CBO for the end of our trip. 
2. We had a friend drive us and all our gear to Fort Frances.  We met a driver (and co-owner)  from Quetico North Outfitters at a parking lot in Fort Frances.  We loaded our canoes and gear onto her van and she drove us directly to the EP Stanton Bay on Pickerel Lake. Very nice lady (can't remember her name!)  She had our permits ready for us.
3. We paddled through the Park, ending at Prairie Portage, got our tow to CBO, loaded up our truck, and drove home.

It was one of our best trips.

Hope some of this helps.

prouboy

You did not say when and how long you were going nor did you mention where you were coming from. With gas prices the way they are it may be possible to find a ride in a nice warm dry vehicle by chipping in for gas. I know there have been times traveling up there alone when I would have welcomed a paying rider and/or extra driver. Of course you may have to conform to someone else's schedule. Just a thought.

I'd rent the canoe from Ely or crane lake outfitter.  Drive there, leave yopur cycle there secured for free, outfitter takes you around to Atikokan (they all will for a fee), you paddle back to outfitter and your cycle.

Got a passcard/passport?  RABC?

Wally seems to have his logistics down.  In addition, for low cost, you can UPS stuff to that outfitter, allievating the bulk on the cycle.  Has to be least option, but you don't get to motorcycle to Atikokan.

Based on looking teh other day, I think you can find a permit - perhaps second choice for weekend entry but still lots of options.

"My pickup would be easier,but cost a whole lot more to drive up there,and I'd miss out on the 360 degree view...I might miss a warm dry cab on the way out...'

be sure you do miss any moose crossing the highway -

and at least goggles if not a full face shield on your helmet (not sure of motorcycle laws in CA, but you likely need a helmet)  for bug deflection if nothing else

there are two first come first served permits available for Pickeral Lake entry  (at least I haven't heard that that has changed).  I did get one of those one short trip I did in 2005 - just ask at the Dawson Creek ranger station -( not sure if you can get one of those at Atikokan) - they told me that they can't pre-issue them the day before, that I had to show up at the office in the morning of the day I wanted to enter, and suggested that if I was there when they opened, I'd be first in line.

but the last 3 or 4 years or so, I have found openings from Atikokan thru Batch entry to be available for Sundays (I have had Monday entry dates reservation to be conservative considering a 1350 mile drive to get there) - I have just changed my entry to the day before with no problem - the office was empty when I got there on Sunday - likley, that would be much tougher to change to a Saturday which is a busier day.

but if you know when you want to go, just contact an outfitter and they will get your permits for you.  since the outfitter will have to drive you and the canoe to the put in, and also pick you and the boat up, I'd assume you would be leaving your cycle at the outfitters, not at the lake.  Be sure to ask them how much they charge for this, as well as the rental fees -- It is possible that it may be cheaper for you to drive up with your truck and pick up the canoe yourself - be clear on what you want the outfitter to do for you, and be sure they give you the total cost, including the taxes.

and one other thing, just in case you aren't aware of it - IF you have a DUI on your license, it  will give you a lot of problems entering canada.  there was a thread on here about a change in this policy, but not sure if its come about as yet ?  scroll down in the general forum to find it if interested/needed          otherwise, with a DUI, you can buy your way into Canada for $150  - does not seem to be an issue if you go with a RABC

All good advise, but I agree with Wally.
Why go back into Canada to get your bike? Whoever you rent equipment from has to get it back. Why not have them drop you off at the start with the eqiupment and you paddle it back. Then you just head straight home. Outfitter would hold your bike too.

Prouboy, "Linda"

Jim J Solo wrote on Apr 11^th, 2012 at 1:17pm:

All good advise, but I agree with Wally. Why go back into Canada to get your bike? Whoever you rent equipment from has to get it back. Why not have them drop you off at the start with the eqiupment and you paddle it back. Then you just head straight home. Outfitter would hold your bike too. Prouboy, "Linda"

What?  Typo with my name? 

prouboy

Mad_Mat wrote on Apr 11^th, 2012 at 12:38pm:

and one other thing, just in case you aren't aware of it - IF you have a DUI on your license, it  will give you a lot of problems entering canada.  there was a thread on here about a change in this policy, but not sure if its come about as yet ?  scroll down in the general forum to find it if interested/needed          otherwise, with a DUI, you can buy your way into Canada for $150  - does not seem to be an issue if you go with a RABC

IMO - an RABC wouldn't be required to paddle into the US after a legal entry into Canada.

Hmmm, that's right isn't it?


Not too long ago I read that Canada was lightening up on some 'undesirable' restrictions. It didn't matter to me much ... but I believe it had something to do with an attempt to address a decrease in tourism revenue. 

FWIW I agree w/ a US outfitter arranging for your put-in. You may be able to fly out of Crane for a comparable price.  Personally, I think you're overthinkin it. Someone still needs to transport the canoe the other way.

IMO - an RABC wouldn't be required to paddle into the US after a legal entry into Canada.

Hmmm, that's right isn't it?

I think that is correct, but technically you need to clear US customs after returning from Canada.  You can do this at the customs station near Ely. 

Anyone ever notice that no one ever asks about doing the reverse route? Like it's paddling uphill or something. ;) That sort of exchange would be perfect if you could find the right person ... and trust them.

I'm getting alot of fat to chew on here... and some pretty good suggestions,too! This is just an idea that gelled up in my little head this week,though I,ve been trying to mesh my passion for canoe tripping with my love for my "big two wheeler"for some time now,it's just now-maybe-hopefully,that the planets can be pushed into place and I could make this happen!   The UPS idea is good(I should of thought of that). The lean on an outfitter to help on either end idea is something that should have been obvious. The reverse trip makes a lot of sense ,too. I will have to focus on the' pick up an entry permit there 'deal a bit,too. Travelling on the bike is a little bit like in the canoe,you've got to give weather it's due regard...and be :)ing in an exact place at an exact time can be stressfull at the least.  You know,I never been there,but Ithink it actually is up hill headed south. Anyway,going from 'less people' to 'more people',seems like it might feel better after already having been out in the elements and the 'unknown' for awhile.   ...for  what?...how long? I'm just now thinking this out at all. I'm sure I should already know,but what's to be done about this park/specific RA... stuff? I'm really glad I have you guys to ask about this stuff_(priceless!)

-Oh,  I'm 600 miles south of Ely.  Gas Will be an issue. (they're talkin' $5.00/gallon---it's sure to be $4.00/g)   ...and though I can neither confirm,nor deny this...there may have been a" youthful indiscresion" back in 1986.( That's got to be beyond the "collective memory"...Oui? )    Beyond the gas prices,all of the Canadian fees,combined with rentals, ... a trip like this is a little bit more than a poor man's gettaway.  Good thing it's so very beautiful up there. I appreciate your help. thanks.   

if you are really trying to do a trip as cheaply as possible, maybe you should consider the BWCA side of the border ?

there is a single flat fee ($15 per party, or per person or something like that for BWCA)  Quetico fees ("Backcountry camping fees") are 21.50 Can $ per person per day  non-resident if you enter  Quetico from the south - $17 per day from west, and $15 per day from the North.  depending on how long a trip you are doing, that can put a hurt on your budget bigger than the gas bill.

not sure if 1986 data is in the computer database they check at border crossings, so may still be on thier radar;  I don't think its an issue with the RABC but I don't know that for a fact.

"IMO - an RABC wouldn't be required to paddle into the US after a legal entry into Canada.

Hmmm, that's right isn't it?"

correctomundo

RABC is Canadian Document only honored by Canada Customs - for re-entry into US, you need the real Passport (or maybe some CanPass type of card IF that works)

Puckster wrote on Apr 11^th, 2012 at 5:37pm:

Jim J Solo wrote on Apr 11th, 2012 at 1:17pm: All good advise, but I agree with Wally. Why go back into Canada to get your bike? Whoever you rent equipment from has to get it back. Why not have them drop you off at the start with the eqiupment and you paddle it back. Then you just head straight home. Outfitter would hold your bike too. Prouboy, "Linda" What?  Typo with my name?  prouboy

No just the Quetico North shuttle driver's name you couldn't remember.

Thanks Jim J!

"I know that the bwca would be much cheaper than going into Canada, but kinda want to run with the big dogs. I've heard so much good stuff about the big Q and am worried about what's currently left in our US park.   i.e. the s.w. central portion is burnt (Pigami Creek fire),the n.e. portion( Knife Lake area) is either burnt or still choaked with the '99 blow down,the southern portion of the Gunflint Trail is 'popular' and busy with the easy access crowd,and the n.e. section (Little Souix and beyond) are where all the permits are being gobbled up! Where are all of those "emotionally disturbed bears with the punkrock haircuts" going to be hanging out?  You guessed it! Either in Stu's favorite bear/whitail hunting area (which will have maximum allowable usage this year),or south of Pan Lake, which will also be maxed out.  The most disapointing thing I've experienced in my (only 7) trips up there has been the stress of a congested ,overcrowed ,very non-peaceful portage scene. ...ruins the whole thing!  I've got a bad back, and throwing two packs--one on each sholder like a purse, while bitching at my group to hurry up,just ruins my "wah"...  (think that means 'peace of mind' achording to James Clavel in SHOGUN -I think)   Anyway,though the bwca is grand, this year,I'd like a little more "remoteness".

knafelc wrote on Apr 13^th, 2012 at 2:54am:

"The most disapointing thing I've experienced in my (only 7) trips up there has been the stress of a congested ,overcrowed ,very non-peaceful portage scene. ...ruins the whole thing!  I've got a bad back, and throwing two packs--one on each sholder like a purse, while bitching at my group to hurry up

Ah, your note brings up bad memories -- portage gridlock, campsite anxiety.  When you have almost a quarter million people using the BWCA hard to find solitude! 

prouboy

I can think of one particularly busy Q portage years ago that still puts my shoulders back, as in locked and loaded. Yeah, too many people can spoil things for sure. I'm not fond of seeing or hearing neighbors. I'll sometimes stay an extra day when I know I have a decent, off route, lake all to myself.

All things considered, IMO, for the time and expense of being dropped off on the one end of the park or getting a ride back, I'm thinking a loop back to your bike would make more sense $, time and effort wise.

You can find crowded portages in Quetico too but they'll normally be nearer entries and popular destination lakes. Paddling to the interior, turning left, and looping back to where you started would be just as, if not more remote all told. It doesn't sound as impressive as a one way, N to S route though does it?

If you want remote, study Beymer's book and go someplace else.

Now for the bad news:
Ever use a bolt cutters? I'd want my bike indoors or at the vary least out of site.

Youthful indiscretions? Really old things will come up for sure if you happen to qualify for a random(?) full background check. I don't know. I'd find out about any new considerations before shipping stuff to where you may not be able to access it. Consider the chances and repercussions. Hey, maybe drive to the other crossing and try your luck again or wait for a new shift....  :D

...much fat...  much chewing to be done. Perhaps I need to swollow any grandios ego and spit it out like a huge green lugie,but I'm still going do some sort of bike/conoe trip this year since some rare and 'temporal'  (is that a word?) conditions should come together for me. I wonder how to become a bit more ashured that some foolishness from over a quarter of a centry ago won't come back to haunt me. I'm confident that I'll work out the rest. I do appreciate the concerns to consider,... ;)  that's why I asked.

" I wonder how to become a bit more ashured that some foolishness from over a quarter of a centry ago won't come back to haunt me."

I'd apply NOW for an RABC permit.  (and yes, you still have to have a regular passport for re-entering US - if you don't already have one, apply for one now - it can take up to a couple of months).  If you get the RABC permit, fine and dandy - plan an entry from the south thru Prairie Portage or Cache Bay and loop back to your cycle, which is at one of the outfitters based on Moose Lake or Sag - no shuttle involved at all.  Alternatively, start the same, but finish up North and make arrangements with Canadian outfitter to bring you back to US - as long as you have your Passport, no issues crossing the border from N to S - its only entering Canada that may be a problem.

Plan B - do your research (just google for Entering Canada with a DUI on licence or something that general, and you'll find lots of hits)  Canada Customs - and find the info about buying your way in - I think its $150 to forgive you your sins.  You have to fill out some forms at the border and pay your penance - BUT - there is no absolute guarantee that you will be allowed to cross the border in either direction - it is always up to the crossing guards, no matter which way you are going.