Officials lay more groundwork to reinstate mineral leases near BWCAW despite opposition
Legislation introduced in Congress would reinstate Twin Metals Minnesota’s federal mineral leases and reverse the 20-year mining moratorium near the BWCAW.
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No permit required: Superior National Forest’s 13 hidden canoe routes
The BWCAW isn’t the only place for unforgettable canoe-camping adventures. We’ve selected thirteen routes in the Superior National Forest, outside the designated wilderness. These routes offer excellent paddling without the need for a permit. We include maps and key details to help you plan your trip.
Major cleanup targets restoration of Thomson Reservoir along the St. Louis River
Federal, state, and local crews are actively cleaning up areas of environmental contamination on the Thomson Reservoir. This reservoir, which is part of the St. Louis River, plays a central role in a broader effort to repair historic industrial pollution that has long plagued the watershed and the largest river feeding into Lake Superior.
Avoid these rookie mistakes on your next backcountry trip
Test your gear before every trip, consider your backup plan, treat your list like Santa, prepare for bad weather, and a few more mistakes we’ve learned from the hard way…
Public weighs in at Forest Service open house on BWCAW fee increase
The USFS has proposed increasing BWCAW recreation fees. Members of the public weighed in at an open house at the Kawishiwi Ranger Station.
Collective focuses on long-term climate resilience for northern Minnesota communities
Local communities, Tribal Nations, state agencies, and multiple organizations have launched a partnership to develop a regional climate response plan in northern Minnesota. With a focus on climate issues, the newly formed Northland Climate Resilience Collective was funded through a grant from NOAA.
Should walleye limits be reduced on Minnesota lakes?
The Minnesota DNR is looking for public comment on the possibility of reducing walleye limits in the state. They attribute this to changes in environmental and ecological conditions, combined with advancements in fishing methods. If the bag limit changes, the walleye possession would decrease from six to four fish.
BWCAW visitor use has gone up due to increased interest in day-trips
While the overall number of visitors has remained steady since the pandemic, the number of visitors increased between May 1 and September 30 last year. This was largely due to a rise in day-use (non-motorized) permit reservations. Off-season visits also grew, though summer continues to draw the most traffic.
5 fun ways to entertain your family on your Northeast Minnesota camping trip
Dreaming of a family camping trip but want to ensure it’s fun for everyone? Check out these tips to make your next trip your best trip.
Book Review: The Scenic Route, Building America’s North Shore by Arnold R. Alanen
In The Scenic Route: Building America’s North Shore, author Arnold R. Alanen takes readers on a 150-mile journey that showcases the man-made features and unique personal stories that define one of Minnesota’s most scenic byways. This in-depth field guide will draw readers back to its photos and maps time and time again.
Exploring the Primitive Management Areas of the BWCAW
For those who truly want to get off the beaten path, the BWCAW’s twelve Primitive Management Areas (PMAs) offer the most remote and untouched wilderness experience. Exploring these areas involves risk and demands strong outdoor skills with proper planning. Help may be hours or even days away, and local resources are limited.
3 must-see beaches on Minnesota’s North Shore
There are no shortage of epic beaches and overlooks along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior. Here are three that should not be missed.
Feds propose increasing Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness user fees
The U.S. Forest Service–Superior National Forest is inviting public comments on a proposal to increase recreation fees in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The Forest Service would use the additional revenue to improve campsites and portage trails, expand outdoor education programs, and support Search and Rescue operations.
Help count loons in Minnesota this summer
Volunteers are needed to count loons this summer. The Minnesota DNR is seeking people to observe and count the state bird between July 4-14 for their monitoring project. The information gathered will help protect and support the continued health of the birds. Current populations hover around 12,000, more than any other state besides Alaska.
Legislation fast-tracks mining leases near BWCAW
June 11 Update: In a win for wilderness and conservation efforts, Congress is set to remove Section 80131 from the draft budget bill. This section would have directed officials to move forward with reinstating copper-nickel mining leases near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Bob DeGross retires as Voyageurs National Park Superintendent
After more than three decades of service, Superintendent Bob DeGross retired from Voyageurs National Park. He joined Minnesota’s only national park in 2016, inspired by early conservationists Sigurd Olson and Aldo Leopold. As he steps into retirement, he reflects on the challenges facing the National Park Service and emphasizes the vital role the park plays for both visitors and surrounding communities.
Closure order issued near the Horse River in the BWCAW
A lightning strike sparked a wildfire near the Horse River in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This comes after an active wildfire season has scorched nearly 30,000 acres in the Superior National Forest this year. The Forest Service has issued a closure order for the route along the Dog Sled Portage and has encouraged visitors to avoid the area.
Wildfires burn in the southern part of the Superior National Forest
Crews are battling three wildfires in St. Louis County, Minnesota. The fires, which are burning in a mixed forest, are partially contained. Ground and air support, along with suppression efforts, will continue in the Superior National Forest until further notice. We will continue to share updates.
Why you should plan a camping trip to Lake Jeanette this summer
Just 40 miles from Ely, Lake Jeanette offers opportunities for secluded camping, swimming, paddling, and fishing. The Astrid Trail is accessed from the campground, with more than seven miles of hiking and connects four smaller but equally gorgeous lakes.
Hiking one of the BWCA’s most remote trails: The Sioux-Hustler
Tucked deep within Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, just miles from the Canadian border, the Sioux-Hustler Hiking Trail offers a truly remote experience. This 32-mile loop winds through rugged boreal forest, quiet lakes, and historic logging paths, giving hikers a rare opportunity to experience true solitude. Learn more about the experience and tips for planning your adventure.