BWCA Planning a Quetico Trip Boundary Waters Quetico Forum


BWCA Messageboard

BWCA and Quetico Park Books and Magazines

Find Outfitters for the Boundary Waters Quetico

Boundary Waters (BWCA) photo gallery and individual photo journals

Boundary Waters Message Board and Forums.

username

password

Remember Me

Fenske Lake Cabins
Site Search
	Contact Us
	Route Guide

Chat Rooms (1 Chatting) | Search | Login/Join

* For the benefit of the community, commercial posting is not allowed.

View BWCA Photo and Trip Report Contest Page

Poll: What is your favorite month in the BWCA/Q?
(482 responses)

2012 BWCA Photo Contest Results

Boundary Waters Quetico Forum

Quetico Forum

Planning a Quetico Trip

View Boundary Waters Map Locations

Route Guide

community sponsor

Gunflint Northwoods Guided Trips

Last Visit: 05/22/2013 01:08PM
Sort by

Author

Message Text

LuvMyBell

08/14/2012 07:55PM

I'm in the initial planning stage for my first Quetico trip. I've been reading through numerous posts and trip reports to gather as much information as possible.

I've got the permit and RABC permit process under control. I've ordered and received a Chrismar Adventure Map. After reading the information on this map I'm confused. A big deal is made of the fact that maps of the Quetico contain portages but not campsites. Since you have to camp in established campsites just like the BWCA I thought it was strange they weren't shown on maps. I went to the web and quickly found the PCD database and map that shows all Quetico campsites as a red dot.

I don't get it????? It'll be a simple, albeit time consuming, exercise to transpose campsite information to my maps and load into my GPS.

I get the no thunderboxes and I understand fewer people. Fishing might be better because of less pressure (fewer people) depending on the ability of the fisherman.

Any other major differences I need to be aware of? I'd also be interested in opinions on why commercially sold maps don't contain campsites when the info is readily available online?

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

kanoes

08/14/2012 08:29PM

you had me til "gps". cant help ya now.

i think bigfoot is blurry. (mitch hedberg)

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

dentondoc

08/14/2012 08:40PM

First, it is NOT required to camp at an established camping spot in Quetico. However, most people do use established sites rather than brush out their own space ... its a time saving thing. I've done this a time or two in a pinch, but generally stay on an established site.

Another difference is fishing ... no live bait and no barbs.

While the Chrismar maps don't show campsites, maps sold commercially by Fisher and McKenzie do show campsites (and portages). There are a few instances where both show portages incorrectly and there are some campsites on Fisher that don't appear on McKenzie and vice versa.

If you are really "into" using a GPS, you can download portages and campsites from PCD and load them onto your GPS (or other mapping software). Its not rocket science, but its not trivial either.

dd

May the warm winds of Heaven blow softly upon your house. May the Great Spirit bless all who enter there. May your mocassins make happy tracks in many snows, and may the rainbow always touch your shoulder. (Cherokee Prayer)

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

boonie

08/14/2012 08:44PM

Although I have not been to Q, I have always been under the impression that there were no designated sites (with latrine & firegrate) that were required to camp at. I believe the ones you are referring to are established campsites, but not designated campsites.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/14/2012 09:02PM

quote boonie: "Although I have not been to Q, I have always been under the impression that there were no designated sites (with latrine & firegrate) that were required to camp at. I believe the ones you are referring to are established campsites, but not designated campsites."
Not trying to be a smartass but I don't understand the difference between established and designated...

Like I said I'm in the initial planning fornmy first Quetico trip so I have a lot to learn. My statement about staying at established campsites was based on the following from the Chrismar map:
'Please protect this sensitive environment by using only established sites'.

I've use Voyager Maps for my BWCA trips. Its great to know that Fisher and Mackenzie both show Quetico campsites. I wasn't aware of that info. Thanks.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

timatkn

08/14/2012 09:09PM

Just a warning on camps in Quetico. WHether Fisher, McKenzie, or the PCD shows a camp, it may or may not be a camp (many or most of the PCD camps are false). THere are a lot of unmarked camps not on any web or map and there are alot of false camps as well. Since the sites are not officially designated by the park there is no way for map makers to add them to their maps. THat is, there is no official database. That's part of the fun though isn't it :)

By established the Park encourages you to use sites that have been obviously used in the past, not hack out a new one. Most established sites are pretty easy to spot.

I agree it is confusing if you haven't been there before and sort of conflicting in a way.

THe Chrismar (haven't found a mistake yet--although I am sure there is one) is the most accurate for portages. McKenzie and Fisher are equally inaccurate.

T

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

marsonite

08/14/2012 09:26PM

I'll echo that the Fisher campsite marks are basically a joke, at least on certain lakes. There are many more sites than Fisher shows, and many that Fisher does show don't exist. I haven't used McKenzie.

I personally think the Q campsites are nicer than the BW campsites. My theory is that in the Q, since you can "camp anywhere", people just sort of find the nice spots by a process of natural selection. Many BW sites just aren't that nice, probably because they were picked by a forest service employee who might have been, for example, finding 5 sites on lake x, instead of years of campers. (not knocking the forest service, and yes there are some very nice sites in the BW) but on average.

I think the thing with the PCD sites is that you have to pick the ones that have been reviewed. I don't have the patience to stare at a computer screen for that long.

There are plenty of established campsites in the Q. In the BWCA, I always have this anxiety about finding an open campsite. Not an issue on the other side of the border.

If you are going to use Fisher or McKenzie, I would recommend you compare them to your Christmar and copy the portage information from your Christmar onto the Fisher/McKenze. I learned this the hard way.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/14/2012 09:27PM

So, can you just stop and make camp anywhere then? I understand why they encourage you to use established sites but that is different than 'must use'.

I don't see myself hacking out a new site but if I was on a lake and couldn't see/find an existing campsite I would be tempted to find a clearing and make camp if the lake looked promising for seclusion or good fishing.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

timatkn

08/14/2012 09:38PM

quote LuvMyBell: "So, can you just stop and make camp anywhere then? I understand why they encourage you to use established sites but that is different than 'must use'.

I don't see myself hacking out a new site but if I was on a lake and couldn't see/find an existing campsite I would be tempted to find a clearing and make camp if the lake looked promising for seclusion or good fishing."
Yes you can make camp anywhere. THey "encourage" you not to. They can't or won't fine you or anything.

T

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

Jackfish

Moderator

08/14/2012 09:47PM

LMB... Do you have an idea where in Q you want to go? There are lots of experienced Q paddlers here that will share campsite info.

Also remember that that are far fewer paddlers in Q than what you're used to in the BW. Finding an open campsite, even late in the day, won't normally be difficult.

It's only a spot on the map... until you go there.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/14/2012 09:52PM

quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "So, can you just stop and make camp anywhere then? I understand why they encourage you to use established sites but that is different than 'must use'.

I don't see myself hacking out a new site but if I was on a lake and couldn't see/find an existing campsite I would be tempted to find a clearing and make camp if the lake looked promising for seclusion or good fishing."
Yes you can make camp anywhere. THey "encourage" you not to. They can't or won't fine you or anything.

T"
Thank you for that clarification.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/14/2012 09:56PM

quote Jackfish: "LMB... Do you have an idea where in Q you want to go? There are lots of experienced Q paddlers here that will share campsite info.

Also remember that that are far fewer paddlers in Q than what you're used to in the BW. Finding an open campsite, even late in the day, won't normally be difficult. "
With the limited information i know right now I'm thinking entering at Prarie Portage so I can get a tow to the EP.

I don't think I'd want the hassel of getting both BWCA. And Q permits and taking a day or two paddling through the BWCA to get to a Q EP.

I'm open to suggestions and will be learning as much as I can between now and next Spring/Summer. Thank you.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

Ho Ho

08/14/2012 10:46PM

Okay, as the others say, you do NOT have to camp at an existing site in Quetico. However, with rare exceptions, people almost always do.

Then, as, the others say, the maps are very inaccurate about where there are sites. They show some that don't exist, and omit many many more that do exist.

The PCD is really great because it shows almost all existing sites - but also many that don't exist. In other words, it errs almost exclusively on the side of overinclusion. (It does omit some sites, but not many.) So you can't count on a site being there just because it's shown on the PCD.

So what's a guy to do? First, as the others say - RELAX. There are campsites everywhere in Quetico and not that many people using them. Instead of looking at a map, use your eyes, and find them. If you are on a major travel route, you will have no problem.

But what if you want to go off the beaten track and are wondering if there will be any sites? Then it is worth doing some research. I generally mark all sites shown on the PCD on my map and use those marks as places to look. But some of the best sites I have found are not even on the PCD, and as I said, many sites on the PCD do not exist. So you have to be ready for a little adventure.

If you have a GPS, there are several sources of waypoints that can populate your GPS with all the PCD sites (which, as mentioned, may or may not exist). Look at the posts in the GPS private forum on this site.

Bottom line is that Quetico is managed more as a real wilderness where the government doesn't tell you where to stay - but also doesn't point you to where you can stay. You are more on your own, and it's fun.

Oh, and did anyone mention that the portages are a lot more rugged than in the BW?

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

dentondoc

08/14/2012 10:52PM

quote LuvMyBell: "With the limited information i know right now I'm thinking entering at Prarie Portage so I can get a tow to the EP."
To clarify, most folks get a tow TO Prairie Portage, and once checked in at the ranger station, they then PADDLE to their EP. What ever tow you might take once across Prairie Portage operated by a US-based outfitter is required to stay on the US side of Basswood (or other lakes). Once in Canada, it is motor free (except for those few lakes in which First Nation guides are permitted to operate). But, if you are headed to the far western part of Basswood Lake (say, Basswood Falls area), you can save a 1/2 day or longer paddle by using a tow to, perhaps, Washington Island.

Also to clarify PCD content: Many of the campsite locations are sourced from a resource called Legacy Forest. In those files, campsites are referenced from a historical perspective. In other words, if a campsite has EVER existed at that location, it is referenced. (I stayed on one once that probably hadn't been used in over 20 years ... nice, deep caribou moss all around.)

dd

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

boonie

08/15/2012 06:31AM

LMB- Sorry I wasn't more clear that the established sites were established by paddlers' usage and not by the Park as opposed to the designated sites in BWCA.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/15/2012 07:15AM

quote boonie: "LMB- Sorry I wasn't more clear that the established sites were established by paddlers' usage and not by the Park as opposed to the designated sites in BWCA. "
Got it.....Makes sense to me now.... Thanks

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

billconner

08/15/2012 08:13AM

I second HoHo's advice - just scan the shore line and you'll find sites. I look for points and exposure to breeze and away from low lands and always do well. Frankly, the Fisher and Mckenzie maps have worked well for me - enough of the sites indicated are there that I've never had a problem finding a really nice site, even in popular areas very late in the day, following those maps as a guide.

Best source - come to a wingnight with your maps - I recommend McKenzie or Fisher - and a red sharpie and ask.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/15/2012 09:08AM

I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

Goby

08/15/2012 11:38AM

LMB,

It was mentioned once, but Quetico is barbless for fishing and no live bait (or once live bait). You can have barbed hooks in your tackle box, but once its on the line, the barbs need to be pinched down.

Another thing for the fishing is the need of an Ontario outdoors card. This is in addition to your fishing license and is needed for each person fishing.

Also, portages can be a little rougher and harder to find (both visually and compared to what the map says). I use the Fisher maps and usually go through them in comparison the PCD and mark sites that have reviews. When you purchase the Fisher or McKenzie maps, you will probably be buying several to cover the area you will be in.

As far as a route goes, there are plenty of people here who can help point you down a path. I think it will depend on what you are looking for: solitude, fishing, pictographs,etc.

Tight Lines

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/15/2012 12:47PM

Thanks to all for the help and great advice. I'm sure I'll have more questions as it gets closer to my trip next May. I've got enough information to keep my busy for quite some time...LOL

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

timatkn

08/15/2012 05:34PM

quote LuvMyBell: "I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks."
I have the same GPS unit. I use my Lake master chip for LOTW. THey are discontinued but I think cabelas online still has them. The Quetcio lakes show up well on the chip. I don't bother to add camps or portages as I have my map out too. Really only use the GPS if I feel soemthign doesn't look right to verify position. I have been in contact with Red Pine mapping and they claim they will come out with a Quetico version compatable with lowrance. That would have some camps, portages marked already---but that was April---so don't hold your breath.

T

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

marsonite

08/15/2012 05:41PM

The other thing that is different about the Quetico is their "entry point" system. The entry lakes, at least in the southern part of the park, are well inside of the boundaries. I've been told you only have to head toward your entry lake, and don't have to be to the entry lake the day your permit says.

For example, if you have an Agnes Permit, you could stop and camp on Sunday lake.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/16/2012 08:36AM

quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks."
I have the same GPS unit. I use my Lake master chip for LOTW. THey are discontinued but I think cabelas online still has them. The Quetcio lakes show up well on the chip. I don't bother to add camps or portages as I have my map out too. Really only use the GPS if I feel soemthign doesn't look right to verify position. I have been in contact with Red Pine mapping and they claim they will come out with a Quetico version compatable with lowrance. That would have some camps, portages marked already---but that was April---so don't hold your breath.

T

"

Went to Cabelas and found the Lake Master for Lowrance. It too is now out of stock/discontinued....Back to the drawing board.

All I need is map software. Between the Chrismar, Fisher& McKenzie maps along with the PCD coordinates, I will create my own waypoints for portages and campsites. That's what I did for the BWCA using my Freedom Maps software. I actually enjoyed creating my own waypoints.

Unfortunately, the factory maps that came with the unit and the after-market Freedom Maps software for Northern Minnesota do not provide detail for the Quetico. Hopefully someone will provide the answer to my question on the GPS forum.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/16/2012 09:56AM

quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks."
I have the same GPS unit. I use my Lake master chip for LOTW. THey are discontinued but I think cabelas online still has them. The Quetcio lakes show up well on the chip. I don't bother to add camps or portages as I have my map out too. Really only use the GPS if I feel soemthign doesn't look right to verify position. I have been in contact with Red Pine mapping and they claim they will come out with a Quetico version compatable with lowrance. That would have some camps, portages marked already---but that was April---so don't hold your breath.

T

"
Just in case you are interested since you have the Lowrance iFinder Expedition C handheld GPS.....

I was successful in finding Lowrance F112EX-EC Freedom Map. This is the topo map for Eastern Canada and covers all of Ontario where the Quetico is.

I had been doing a search on Freedom Map F41T which is on the Lowrance website. When I went to Freedom Maps website I got the Freedom Map F112EX-EC number to use in my search.

website The Find had it for $113.60.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

timatkn

08/16/2012 12:09PM

quote LuvMyBell: "quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks."
I have the same GPS unit. I use my Lake master chip for LOTW. THey are discontinued but I think cabelas online still has them. The Quetcio lakes show up well on the chip. I don't bother to add camps or portages as I have my map out too. Really only use the GPS if I feel soemthign doesn't look right to verify position. I have been in contact with Red Pine mapping and they claim they will come out with a Quetico version compatable with lowrance. That would have some camps, portages marked already---but that was April---so don't hold your breath.

T

"
Just in case you are interested since you have the Lowrance iFinder Expedition C handheld GPS.....

I was successful in finding Lowrance F112EX-EC Freedom Map. This is the topo map for Eastern Canada and covers all of Ontario where the Quetico is.

I had been doing a search on Freedom Map F41T which is on the Lowrance website. When I went to Freedom Maps website I got the Freedom Map F112EX-EC number to use in my search.

website The Find had it for $113.60."

I am interested. When you get it and look it over can ya let me know how well it looks?

Thanks,

I am really hoping PaddleNav--red pine mapping makes a lowrance product for the Quetico though. It would have the portages on it already. Soem lake contours. The issue with my LOTW Lakemaster chip is when I am straddling the US/Canada boundary it only shows the Canadian side. I have to put my MN chip in for the other side. I think Paddle Nav covers both in one chip, but it has been 4 months since they told me it should be avaialble in a week......

T

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

PineKnot

08/16/2012 05:29PM

I'll also echo some of the previous comments regarding campsites. In the past couple of years, I've traveled many of the southern Quetico lakes and Saganagons/Mack/Kawa Bay areas. I had most of the campsites from the PCD, Fisher and McKenzie maps on my master map, and I'd say that close to half the campsites on the PCD (and the others) did not exist, and if they did, their ratings were somewhat inflated. There are quite a few campsites not on any of these maps.

Don't be too surprised if you have to explore a bit to find a good site for your party...there are some diamonds in some rough spots.

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are -- Teddy Roosevelt

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/16/2012 06:31PM

quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "quote timatkn: "quote LuvMyBell: "I'll be purchasing a Fisher and McKenzie map for the Quetico area I choose for my first trip. Going forward I'll decide which to use on future trips. For whatever reason, I currently use Voyager maps for my BWCA trips.

I am also a big GPS user. Mine is an older unit (Lowrance iFinder Expedition C) but it works great and more importantly I have finally figured out how to use most of the features.

I'm currently looking for map software for Canada to load as the factory map that comes pre-loaded on the until doesn't really provide enough detail for me. Anyway, I found the perfect product, Lowrance Freedom Map F41T Topo Data Card for South Ontario, but unfortunately Lowrance has discontinued their Freedom Maps software.

It looks like I'll need to try and find a used data card somewhere. If anyone has a lead or any ideas I'd appreciate that information. I also posted a similar request on the GPS forum earlier. Thanks."
I have the same GPS unit. I use my Lake master chip for LOTW. THey are discontinued but I think cabelas online still has them. The Quetcio lakes show up well on the chip. I don't bother to add camps or portages as I have my map out too. Really only use the GPS if I feel soemthign doesn't look right to verify position. I have been in contact with Red Pine mapping and they claim they will come out with a Quetico version compatable with lowrance. That would have some camps, portages marked already---but that was April---so don't hold your breath.

T"
Just in case you are interested since you have the Lowrance iFinder Expedition C handheld GPS.....

I was successful in finding Lowrance F112EX-EC Freedom Map. This is the topo map for Eastern Canada and covers all of Ontario where the Quetico is.

I had been doing a search on Freedom Map F41T which is on the Lowrance website. When I went to Freedom Maps website I got the Freedom Map F112EX-EC number to use in my search.

website The Find had it for $113.60."
I am interested. When you get it and look it over can ya let me know how well it looks?

Thanks,

I am really hoping PaddleNav--red pine mapping makes a lowrance product for the Quetico though. It would have the portages on it already. Soem lake contours. The issue with my LOTW Lakemaster chip is when I am straddling the US/Canada boundary it only shows the Canadian side. I have to put my MN chip in for the other side. I think Paddle Nav covers both in one chip, but it has been 4 months since they told me it should be avaialble in a week......

T"
Timatkn, If the Canada Freedom Maps is anything like the US versions that I have been using for years, it is just what the doctor ordered as far as showing a complete topo picture of the area.

It will not show any campsites or portages. You either need to manually add them or download the PCD database.

I prefer to manually add my own icons. It's actually part of my trip planning process. I do a little at a time and focus on the areas I want to visit first.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

Jackfish

Moderator

08/16/2012 09:34PM

LMB... If you're going to "reply with quote", delete all the non-pertinent stuff, please.

It's only a spot on the map... until you go there.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/16/2012 10:02PM

Good point....Will do.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/19/2012 11:08AM

I've done a search on the web for Quetico Park Rules and Regulations. Most turned out to be interpretations or summaries on US outfitter websites. However I just found actual Canadian Quetico Park rules.

I have read and re-read the rules many times and cannot find anything that mentions the max number of canoes in a group. Is there a limit to 4 canoes in a group like the BWCA?

All I can find is a max group size of 9 people. They rules also recommend that groups at or near the max number of nine get a second permit so the group can split up and travel separately if they choose

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

billconner

08/19/2012 12:48PM

I think ou are correct. It jogs my memory that 9 people can trip together in 9 solo canoes - but it is discouraged. For refernece, I think this is pretty near "official" for the Q: link

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/19/2012 01:44PM

Bill, that is the Canadian Quetico rules document that I found and read over and over. No mention of a limit on the number of canoes.

It does list the required gear you are required to carry in your canoe which opened my eyes a bit. I do not carry a whistle and while I carry rope (painters) in my canoe, they do not float.

It also mentioned you should stay at campsites with established fire rings and should not build a second fire ring. I understood that fire rings in the Q were not built by the park and that those that are there are frowned upon by some as not being natural. Just surprised the park rules even mentions them.

I doubt that I can get more than 3 or 4 of my core group of trippers to go on a BWCA/Q combo trip because of the added expense involved in permit fees and fishing licenses on top of the BWCA fees. But if we do end up with 5 or 6 and more than a couple want to go solo, it's nice to know we could have more than 4 canoes if needed.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

snakecharmer

08/19/2012 03:18PM

quote LuvMyBell: "
It does list the required gear you are required to carry in your canoe which opened my eyes a bit. I do not carry a whistle and while I carry rope (painters) in my canoe, they do not float."

FYI. Those requirements are for Canadian citizens and watercraft licensed in Canada. Foreign watercraft (that are licensed or registered in a country other than Canada) need to comply with equipment requirements of the country in which the vessel is usually kept.

"Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing it is not fish they are after"
~ Henry David Thoreau

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

timatkn

08/19/2012 03:44PM

quote snakecharmer: "quote LuvMyBell: "
It does list the required gear you are required to carry in your canoe which opened my eyes a bit. I do not carry a whistle and while I carry rope (painters) in my canoe, they do not float."
FYI. Those requirements are for Canadian citizens and watercraft licensed in Canada. Foreign watercraft (that are licensed or registered in a country other than Canada) need to comply with equipment requirements of the country in which the vessel is usually kept."
Just to confirm what Snakecharmer said. That reg throws a few people off at times.

T

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/19/2012 05:22PM

I wish there was a comprehensive Quetico rules and regs. I don't doubt what the experts are saying. I'm kinda black or white, right or wrong, when it comes to this sort of thing.I'd really like to read this for myself. Thanks

EDITED....I just realized that the thread was referring to required gear for a canoe and not the max number of canoes allowed in the Q.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

bumabu

08/26/2012 11:22AM

How many canoes did you want to take?

Who I am precedes what I do, not the other way around.

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

LuvMyBell

08/26/2012 08:02PM

quote bumabu: "How many canoes did you want to take?"

We normally have 7 - 9 in our core group for BWCA trips. 2 solos at most. Some years I'm the only solo.

Most of our core BWCA group go solo on our Spring and late Fall Missouri Ozark float trips but there are no portages to contend with.

For the Q trip, I'm thinking 3 - 5 people and it's possible that all will want to solo. This will be a fishing trip more than anything else and going solo means everyone can fish independently. In the end, my gut feel is that there will only be 1 or 2 solo canoes because of the portaging. Given this 4 canoes will probably be all we take but I wanted to know the max number ....just in case.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

Reply Reply with Quote Print Top Bottom Previous Next

BWCA Messageboard