Permit canceled due to wildfires? Discover new ways to explore northeastern Minnesota

While many permits have been canceled due to ongoing wildfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore areas outside the wilderness and nearby communities. We’re sharing ways to enjoy the region, discover new adventures, and make the most of your visit.

Strong storms spark wildfires, closures

In early July, a strong storm moved through parts of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). As a result, lightning strikes ignited wildfires that are now burning across nearly 70,000 acres. To protect visitors and local communities, the U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest (USFS) decided to close the wilderness. This order went into effect on July 14 and resulted in numerous permit cancellations.

However, there is no need to cancel your visit to the north! There are countless recreational opportunities throughout the Superior National Forest and surrounding region, offering memorable experiences for visitors. Begin your adventure in one of the gateway communities like Duluth, Tofte, or Grand Marais, each offering a variety of places to explore, stay, eat, and relax.

Some of our favorite places to visit in and around the national forest

Have you ever visited Minnesota’s only national park? Voyageurs National Park, located just northwest of the BWCAW, offers a remote experience similar to the Boundary Waters. This 218,000-acre park is a watery landscape of boreal forest, with 84,000 acres covered by water. Hundreds of islands dot the scenic landscape, and most campsites are accessible only by motorized boat or canoe. Houseboats are also a popular way to explore the park’s many beautiful lakes and quiet corners. Learn how to obtain a backcountry or frontcountry reservation.

Looking for other ways to canoe-camp? Check out these thirteen paddling routes in the Superior National Forest that have a wilderness-like feel. These trips offer excellent canoeing opportunities without requiring a permit. We’ve included maps and key details to help you plan your adventure. Want more? Discover other canoe-camping options within the national forest. It includes links to Forest Service reference guides for each district’s backcountry campsites.

Find even more secluded campsites in one of northeastern Minnesota’s state forests. If you’re not looking for many amenities and enjoy camping in quieter, wilder settings, these campgrounds are a great option. You’re not likely to find these on Instagram, and they don’t require reservations. You can choose between developed campgrounds or dispersed camping, which offers a truly remote feel and self-sufficiency. Best of all, most sites have access to water for boating, fishing, or swimming as well as nearby hiking trails.

Don’t forget the North Shore

While you’re experiencing some of the state’s best forests, plan a trip to visit its greatest lake. Lake Superior borders northeastern Minnesota, where the North Shore offers countless recreational opportunities. Start your visit with an easy hike to take in beautiful views and interesting history. These trails feature gentle grades, are less than three miles long, and have relatively few rocks and roots, making them accessible for most hikers. Want more of a challenge? Hike a section of the Superior Hiking Trail or spend a full day trekking to Carlton Peak or another well-known peak for dramatic overlooks of Lake Superior. Or, explore and hike to one of the numerous waterfalls along the shore. The hiking and photographic opportunities are endless! 

Experience Lake Superior from the seat of a bike on the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail. More than 36 miles of one of Minnesota’s most scenic, non-motorized trails are currently open. The path winds along the North Shore, through charming communities, and offers breathtaking views of the lake. When complete, the 86-mile trail will connect the communities of Two Harbors and Grand Marais. Bring a picnic lunch and take a break at one of the iconic rock beaches along the way.

Bonus experiences

Wildlife viewing is a highlight for many visitors to northern Minnesota. While moose, black bear, and wolves roam the forests, they tend to be elusive. If you hope to capture one with your camera, seek quiet forest roads during early morning or evening hours. You may catch a glimpse of these animals or spot one of the forest’s more observant residents, the Great Gray Owl. Before you go, don’t forget to read these wildlife safety tips.

Have we mentioned how incredible the night sky is? Northeastern Minnesota is home to some of the darkest night skies in the country. Constellations and planets sparkle in the inky darkness, creating stunning displays above campsites and forested areas. The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, can fill the horizon with ribbons of light. Check out our handy guide to find the latest forecast and tips for viewing this unforgettable phenomenon.

While wildfire season is not expected to end anytime soon, that doesn’t mean you have to skip your adventure north. The Superior National Forest covers 3.9 million acres, offering endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Not only that, there are many great state parks and forests to wander in.

Lastly, our summer bucket list may just have the exact outdoor experience you’ve been looking for. Most of all, each northern community is ready and waiting to welcome you!