After weeks of disruption and uncertainty, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is in the process of reopening. 

Large swaths of the BWCA, including the entire Gunflint and significant portions of the wilderness on the Ely side, will be reopening for overnight paddling and other access during the first week of August. 

The BWCA Wilderness was shut down entirely July 14 due to numerous wildfires. 

The reopening is welcomed news for paddlers and outfitters. In this episode, we share stories about the reopening of the BWCA, and how people came together during the closure. 

This episode is supported by Tex’s Riverways, Ely Outfitting Company, and Friends of the Boundary Waters. 

Hear more stories like those shared in this episode on our YouTube page.