The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) covers 1 million acres with over 1,100 lakes along 150 miles of the Minnesota-Canada border. Get the latest news on BWCA regulations, the mining debate, wildlife, trail conditions, camping permits and more.
How is the international border marked in the BWCA?
Along the northern edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) lies an invisible line. The international border stretches over 150 miles of water trail, following the shorelines of Quetico Provincial Park to the north and the BWCA to the south. Careful observers may notice the subtle demarcation of the international boundary as they paddle by. Short metal reference markers are punched firmly into hard granite rock.
Haven for birds and birders: Superior National Forest an Important Bird Area
Springtime marks the return of migratory birds to northern Minnesota. In 2003, the Superior National Forest was listed under the National Audubon Society’s Important Bird Area Program. Encompassing 3,900,000 acres, the forest shelters the largest number of nesting birds of any national forest.
Minnesota DNR survey indicates stable moose population
Minnesota’s moose population continues to be stable, according to a recent survey. Learn more about the findings from the MNDNR report and the ongoing conservation efforts in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
Advocates aim to save historic BWCA hiking trails
Boundary Waters Heritage Trails is a new non-profit with the expressed interest in promoting and preserving historic trails within the BWCAW.
Minnesota’s dry winter sparks concerns for spring wildfires
Wildfire is a normal part of healthy ecosystems in the Superior National Forest. However, USFS personnel are warning that this spring could see a higher incidence of wildfires due to low snow cover and precipitation. As a result, they encourage those who live and recreate in the Quetico Superior region to be watchful.
Book Review: Gunflint Falling by Cary J. Griffith
On July 4, 1999, the sky fell. Or so it seemed. On that day the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness was hit by a historic storm unlike anyone had ever seen.
Teens enter essay contest for chance to win “no parents” BWCA trip
The entry deadline is just a few days away. The writer of the winning essay receives a parent-free, fully outfitted five-day canoe trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for themselves and up to three friends.
Winners of 2023 Boundary Waters Photo Contest
Each year the Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness receives thousands of submissions…
A year of wonderful wildlife, superior splendor in northeast MN
Top outdoor experiences in northeast Minnesota – from camping in Superior National Forest, an epic hike on the Superior Hiking Trail to a BWCA adventure, get inspired for your next trip
Fernberg Road plan for logging, burning to reduce wildfire risk
Forest Service seek to create firewall between the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and help protect private property.
An unforgettable 12-day journey through the heart of the BWCA
No matter how well you plan your BWCA canoe trip, not everything goes as expected. This journey through the Boundary Waters was no exception. Rough water, difficult portages were just the beginning.
Superior National Forest invites public to open houses
Events will offer interested groups and individuals informal conversation with Forest Service leaders.
Forest Service taking input on BWCA towboat limits
Agency kicks off review of commercial motor use with comment period on issues to consider.
How does a forest wildfire affect water quality?
New study says lakes near the 2021 Greenwood Fire saw significant and surprising impacts.
Magical history tour through the BWCA
Dig into the history of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, your next trip will be richer with an appreciation for how it came to be.
Boundary Waters Boy Scout camp celebrates a century of wilderness adventure
Program based near Ely has helped young people explore and experience canoe country since 1923.
Plan the perfect BWCA day trip
There are few places in the world where you can experience the wild solitude and dark skies found in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. A BWCAW day trip is a great way to experience the magic of this special place.
The top 10 clearest lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Which lakes in the BWCAW are the most crystal clear? Satellite data analyzed by the University of Minnesota yields insights. #10 – Lac la Croix…
How to visit Eagle Mountain – the highest point in Minnesota
Looking for a hike where you’ll be be challenged and rewarded with solitude and scenic vistas? Then Minnesota’s Eagle Mountain is for you!
Spice Lake Wildfire in Boundary Waters Canoe Area
A wildfire is currently burning near the end of the Gunflint Trail in the BWCAW. The US Forest Service says the fire was detected between Spice Lake and Ogishkemuncie Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Campfires banned in BWCA due to dangers caused by drought
Local, state, and federal agencies announce prohibitions to reduce wildfire risks.
Report documents how “model mines” actually contaminate environment
Professor of geology studied several mines that supposedly have not polluted, and found they don’t meet proposed Minnesota standards.
Federal judge considers motorized towboat ban in Boundary Waters
Group requests injunction to prohibit activity they say illegally degrades wilderness as lawsuit over issue proceeds.
New film explores the dark skies of Minnesota-Ontario
‘Northern Nights, Starry Skies’ features inspiring images, cultural knowledge, and light pollution threats.
Boundary Waters receives ‘International Quiet Park’ designation
The BWCAW’s lack of human noise is recognized as increasingly important. This award honors the quietest places in the world.
Retracing Arthur Carhart’s BWCA canoe route 100 years later
Three paddlers follow famous 100-mile route that helped shape the concept of wilderness.
Beyond the Boundary Waters Mining Ban: What’s Next for Minnesota Wilderness
After last month’s announcement that protects the BWCAW for 20 years, more threats and protection work remains.
Wilderness advocates ask court to enforce Boundary Waters motor limits
Wilderness Watch requests halt to commercial motor use in Boundary Waters until Forest Service comes up with management plan.
Boundary Waters permit reservations available starting Jan. 25
The Forest Service urges wilderness visitors to plan ahead and secure BWCAW permits now.
Scientists search for cyanobacteria in the Boundary Waters: Part II
“Soon enough we were afloat again on the other end of the portage — and then we were paddling through green slime. The cyanobacteria in a shallow bay on the west side of the lake was ten times thicker than on Sawbill…”