BWCA Wildfire Update (July 23, 2026) - Breaking News on BWCA Openings and Community Updates

Special update (July 23, 2026) on the Boundary Waters wildfires - with breaking news on BWCA re-openings, and updates from local business owners. In this special update, we take a close look at the BWCA wildfires -- including news that some Cook County BWCA entry points will be opening for day trips Monday, July 27 and overnight paddles in some areas may open soon after. We also hear about the wildfires' impacts on the people and communities at the edge of the wilderness, and the ways we can all support them. We're joined by: *Drew Stroberg, Acting Forest Supervisor, Superior National Forest *Ginny Nelson, owner of Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters in Ely *Sarah Jorgenson-Hallberg, owner of Java Moose coffee shop in Grand Marais *Ben Hoffman, Executive Director of YMCA Camp Widjiwagan Our guests share firsthand perspectives on how the wildfires are affecting businesses and camps in the region, along with the latest information on the status and scope of the fires. We also address a common point of confusion — how long will the Boundary Waters actually be closed? — and share welcome news about the reopening of the Boundary Waters for day trips, with overnight paddles hopefully soon to follow. Much of the region remains open and accessible, and visiting can provide meaningful support to these communities during a difficult time. HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP! *Buy a gift card to use on a future visit. *Plan a future trip, stay, or canoe adventure. *If you have a reservation, consider rescheduling instead of canceling. *Shop online from local businesses. *Share your favorite Boundary Waters businesses on social media. *Leave a positive review on Google, Facebook, or TripAdvisor. *Visit when conditions allow and support local businesses. *Help spread the word that many businesses in Ely, Grand Marais, and along the Gunflint Trail, and throughout the region are still open and welcoming visitors. COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF BUSINESSES AND RESOURCES: https://tinyurl.com/bwcabiz The Boundary Waters communities have always demonstrated remarkable resilience, and together we can help ensure that the businesses, outfitters, and people who make this region so special have the support they need. We are grateful to the firefighters protecting these communities! Photo by Layne Kennedy