Boundary Waters Canoe Area closure extended

The Superior National Forest has extended the closure in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness until Sept. 3 due to active and increasing fire activity, extreme drought, and limited resources.

The closure was originally scheduled to expire Aug. 27, although Forest Service officials had warned it could be extended.

This closure includes all lands, waters, trails, portages, campsite, canoe routes and Wilderness entry points in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The Forest Service notified permit holders and outfitters and is canceling permits today through Sept. 3. Permit holders will be fully reimbursed.

At this time, all overnight paddle, day use and motorized day use is canceled. The Forest Service will reopen portions of the wilderness and/or some uses when it is determined to be safe.

Northern Minnesota is facing severe to extreme drought conditions, with active and increasing fire across the landscape.

See the Forest website for more information.