"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".