Minnesotans have become increasingly interested in winter camping, particularly in the BWCA. But, as in other seasons, it’s essential to minimize your impact and practice good etiquette. We’re sharing both written and unwritten guidelines to help everyone enjoy a positive experience while protecting the natural environment.
The Trump administration and Rep. Pete Stauber are using the Congressional Review Act in an unprecedented effort to undo a 20-year mineral leasing withdrawal in the Superior National Forest. Critics warn the move sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the Boundary Waters watershed.
The Minnesota DNR has approved a plan by Franconia Minerals, a Twin Metals Minnesota subsidiary, to drill for metallic minerals near Birch Lake, about nine miles south of Ely. The approval allows 19 exploratory drill sites along the shoreline and beneath the lake, which drains into the BWCA—prompting concerns about pollution risks to the protected watershed.
Just north of Lower Basswood Falls in the BWCA, a striking set of pictographs appears on a granite wall, one of at least forty sites scattered across the wilderness. These culturally significant images connect deeply to the history of the Anishinaabe people, who regard this land as sacred.
A federal judge has ruled in favor of the U.S. Forest Service in a lawsuit over motorized towboat use in the Boundary Waters, bringing a resolution to the legal challenge filed …
Blue-green algae is spreading in BWCAW lakes. A $1.3 million grant will be used to study its impact. While visitors should assess their own risk, the researchers also provide tips to help limit exposure.
Waterfalls and cascades appear throughout many parts of the BWCAW. These natural features, often found between lakes and rivers, add excitement and beauty for paddlers and anglers exploring by canoe. Many portage trails follow these dynamic stretches of moving water. In fact, these waterfalls are a big reason portages exist in the first place.
The Spruce budworm, native to Minnesota, has spiked in numbers as state and federal agencies, along with conservationists, are working to mitigate the issue. Repeated and sustained outbreaks, seen in dead or dying balsam fir and white spruce are a signal of poor forest health…
From Minnesota’s highest peak to the mysteries of Magnetic Rock, there’s no better place to experience fall color than the Gunflint Trail. Tips for where to hike, camp and the best overlooks…
Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness recently purchased 361 acres of land along the South Kawishiwi River. This scenic river borders the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and is considered one of America’s most endangered rivers.
The historic storm that wiped out huge swaths of forest and injured visitors left a long-lasting mark on the wilderness.
Full smartphone satellite coverage may be coming to the Boundary Waters sooner than you think. If made permanent, users would have the same level of connectivity that they experience daily. Wilderness areas like the BWCA could have full coverage by 2025. Search and rescue response expects to benefit…
The administration recently announced a goal to protect 30 percent of lands and waters throughout the United States by 2030. This includes protection from mining impacts near wilderness areas such as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (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.
A wide range of stakeholders weigh in on how the BWCAW is managed. Interviews with dozens of wilderness users and other stakeholders resulted in new recommendations.
Forest Service notes anniversary of first major call to protect canoe country.
The famous wooden staircase connecting Rose and Duncan Lakes in the BWCA was recently replaced with stone. No power tools could be used and the portage stayed open…
After pressure on lakes and campsites in recent years, the Forest Service decided to cut about 37 BWCAW permits per day across 27 entry points.
Superior Hiking Trail closed, Boundary Waters closed due to fires. Updated maps, photos from fires in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Superior National Forest as official information is available. Greenwood Fire grows, Moose Lake Fire detected…
Forest Service shuts down wilderness area as large wildfires burn and drought continues, efforts to find visitors by canoe, float plane.