The permit
Quota permits are required for overnight paddle trips from May 1 – September 30; outside that window permits are free and self-issued (October 1 – April 30). Standard fees are a $6 reservation fee plus $16 per adult and $8 per youth/senior — verify current amounts on Recreation.gov.
Access & route
Method of travel is paddle. Access is an 80-rod portage to South Hegman. Trip options with additional portages. For more information, please contact the Kawishiwi Ranger Station in Ely at 218-365-7561.
Description: USDA Forest Service, Superior National Forest.
The water you'll paddle
This entry point puts in on South Hegman Lake, which earns a water-quality grade of C with about 8.5 feet of clarity. See the full report card →
Location
Watch permit season for South Hegman Lake
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Frequently Asked Questions
Entry Point 77 (South Hegman Lake) releases 2 overnight-paddle permits per day during the May 1–September 30 quota season. Reserve early — low-quota entry points fill fast.
Reserve through Recreation.gov's Boundary Waters permit. There's no direct link to a single entry point — open the availability grid, choose "South Hegman Lake" and your start date, and complete the reservation.
Yes, but it's free and self-issued. From October 1 to April 30, fill out a self-issued permit at the entry point. The quota and reservation apply May 1–September 30.