Fire Restrictions & Temporary BWCAW Entry Point Closures July 2026

Fire Restrictions & Temporary BWCAW Entry Point Closures July 2026

Updated: 7/16/2026

There are currently active wildfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Canada. The closest fire impacting the area is near the end of the Gunflint Trail and the businesses and homes around Sea Gull and Saganga Lakes are currently at SET status. However, the majority of the region remains open. The current impact to the area is air quality, which changes rapidly. The air quality forecasts are expected to improve after Friday. 

Read More

Webcams

Webcams

Storm Season on Lake Superior

Every year in late October, Lake Superior shows her wild side. Low-pressure systems from the Arctic swing down over Lake Superior and bump into warmer systems fed by the jet stream. These collisions can spawn ferocious and legendary Gales of November. If you get a thrill from waves and wind, Cook County has plenty of snug harbors that make perfect places for epic storm-watching. Some favorites include:

  1. Grand Marais Harbor
  2. Grand Portage Bay
  3. Good Harbor Bay Overlook
  4. Taconite Harbor
  5. Horseshoe Bay 
Read our blog on how to plan for Storm Season

Beware of the Gales

Sailing the seas has long been one of the world’s riskiest and most dangerous professions, and Lake Superior is a mighty force to be reckoned with when the Gales of November rush through. Over the years, Lake Superior shipwrecks have dwindled, but there were a few notable wrecks near Cook County. Explore famous Lake Superior shipwrecks, like the wreck of the SS Emperor and the SS Henry Steinbrenner.

Waves breaking on artist point lighthouse
Download the Lake Superior Facts & Info Guide

Murder Mystery on the North Shore

Murder Mystery Banner
Learn More & Get Tickets

Book Now! Lodging Is Filling Up Fast

This season honors the power and wild beauty of the Big Lake. Why not experience it for yourself this year? Book your visit now and experience Storm Season.

Explore a wide range of lodging types to suit your style and needs. Book now, reservations are filling fast.

Book Now

Browse Lodging in Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder

Charming lodges, luxury resorts, lakeside cottages, rustic cabins, and more.

Browse Lodging in Grand Marais

Stay in the arts district, a cozy cottage, an amazing vacation rental or go camping.

Browse Lodging on the Gunflint Trail

Historic lodges with modern amenities, cabins, campsites, and more.

Browse Lodging in Grand Portage

Book a stay at the casino hotel, a cabin, vacation rental or a campsite.

Band performing

Events

Looking for things to do in Cook County, Minnesota? You’ve come to the right place! There’s always something happening here. From adrenaline-packed races to guided hikes, art classes to live music, family-friendly festivals to…

Two people relaxing in bed next to fireplace

Lodging

In Cook County, Minnesota, you can’t go wrong with lodging. From rustic and rugged to luxurious and pampered, the perfect accommodations await you. No matter what you crave, lodging type you prefer, or location you love…

Moose in the middle of a snowy road

Winter

There’s no better place to play this winter. In Cook County, Minnesota, winter is long for a reason – fun!

Lit tent next to lake with northern lights in the sky

Dark Sky Season

Catching a glimpse of the northern lights is at the top of many "bucket lists". We have created a comprehensive list of some of the best…

Aerial view of fall colors

Fall

Cook County is the premier destination to view fall colors in Minnesota. Starting in early September, the air turns crisp and clear. Shortly after…