Northern Minnesota is experiencing an influx of owls this winter due to an “irruption,” a phenomenon where food availability in their usual habitat declines. This forces them to expand their range. Environmental factors, such as deep snow or limited cover, can also play a role. We’ve listed some of the top locations for spotting these quiet raptors.
Multiple environmental groups traveled to Washington D.C., recently for the latest appeal by Twin Metals Minnesota. The Chilean-owned mining company has been seeking to reinstate two mineral leases near the BWCAW and other critical watersheds. The company appealed to a panel of judges, aiming to reinstate two preferential rights applications that would allow the company to build a mine south of Ely.
The USFS – Superior National Forest, in partnership with the Friends of the Flathorn-Gegoka, recently completed a new trailhead and parking lot. The area is a cross-country skier’s haven, featuring over 29 km of classic trails through the woods. Heavy flooding last summer pushed the project forward when bridges along part of the trail were damaged.
Winter camping in the BWCAW is a magical way to embrace the season’s silence. It’s a great time to explore the region by snowshoe or skis. We’re highlighting three winter camping routes for all interests and experience levels. Plus, we’ll share a few helpful resources to get you started.
We’re revisiting our most viewed topics of 2024! These include stories on forever chemicals in Lake Superior, continued efforts to protect wilderness, the possibility of full mobile phone coverage in the BWCAW, and a peak Northern Lights season.
A new bridge along the Baptism River opens access to 156 miles of trout habitat. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with conservation groups, recently completed the bridge redesign. This improvement allows fish to migrate between habitats and shoreline restoration supports changing climate conditions.
With rushing waterfalls and impressive potholes, hike one of the North Shore’s trails along the Temperance River, to surprising vistas of Lake Superior.
The USFS recently increased recreational fees throughout the forest. This was due to rising maintenance and operational costs. In the summer of 2023, the Forest Service invited public comment on the fee change proposal. An advisory committee representing multiple outdoor interests recently approved the proposal.
Cross-country skiers have another way to embrace the season in the far north. Set in the woods along Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, the Ski North Ultra gives participants a chance to enjoy a day in the woods.
Silver Rapids Lodge owners have canceled their plans to expand the resort near the BWCAW. As a result, they “surrendered” their permit that the Lake County Planning Commission had approved this fall. The Minnesota DNR and citizen groups had filed lawsuits against the commission, citing multiple concerns about the proposed expansion near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The DNR would like the case to move forward.
Tucked along winding, remote roads throughout Minnesota’s Arrowhead region are five fabulous state forests. Together, these five forests tout nearly 1.6 million acres of recreational land where you can camp, paddle, hike, hunt, fish, picnic, and cross-country ski. And unlike the other wonderful places I mentioned previously, these hidden gems are lesser known and see fewer visitors.
The USFS–Superior National Forest recently released their visitor use report. While numbers have returned to pre-Covid levels, cancellations continue to rise. Federal officials and local outfitters consider the possible reasons behind this trend.
New kiosks are appearing in ranger stations, state parks, and local businesses along Minnesota’s North Shore, making it easier for visitors to connect with the region’s cultural, natural, and environmental history.
The MN DNR recently announced it will suspend its review of the PolyMet copper-nickel sulfide permit until late next year. “This decision recognizes that PolyMet owes Minnesotans transparency and honesty instead of continuing to waste scarce resources and everyone’s time.” said JT Haines from MCEA.
The Forest Service anticipates budget cuts across the entire organization for 2025. The federal agency has requested $8.9 billion in funding but expects to receive significantly less. This reduction could negatively impact the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. As a result, visitors should prepare for potential changes.
Biking the Mesabi Trail between Tower and Ely, part of 165 miles of jaw-dropping beauty, connecting 28 communities in MN’s wild north.
Winter enthusiasts and residents should prepare for a colder, snowier winter in northern Minnesota. NOAA recently released its forecast for 2025. Although dry conditions persist in the north, the expected forecast should benefit those who recreate in the BWCAW and beyond.
“Do we have to go hiking?” our nephew fussed as we made our way up Highway 61 along Minnesota’s North Shore…“Hiking is just walking and walking is boring.” “Well, how about this?” I wagered. “Let’s do this hike to Carlton Peak and if you don’t like hiking, we won’t do any more hikes for the rest of the trip.” “Fine,” he grumbled. “But I already know I’m not going to like it.”
The Minnesota DNR and citizen groups have filed separate lawsuits against the Lake County Planning Commission, raising concerns about expanding Silver Rapids Resort near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).
A private land acquisition has expanded Voyageurs National Park by 51 acres. The National Park Service and Voyageurs Conservancy partnered with the Ramsey family over the past year to secure permanent protection for the property. Located on an island in Rainy Lake, the park service sees this as a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to protect natural habitats and parklands for outdoor enjoyment.