5/4/2020 – This afternoon the USFS has announced that beginning May 5, 2020, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness will be open for day use only.

The overnight use closure that has been in effect since mid April, is going to be continued until May 17th at 11:59 pm. The Wilderness will be open for all use beginning on May 18th.

All Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness overnight permits already reserved for trips beginning before May 18th will be cancelled and refunded automatically. You should receive an email directly from recreation.gov. If you have a reservation with Sawbill Canoe Outfitters for a trip during the now closure period, we will reach out to you regarding options for re-scheduling or cancellation.

This order handed down today by Superior National Forest Supervisor, Connie Cummins, aligns with current Minnesota Stay at Home order and prohibition of recreational camping state-wide.

In response to this order, Sawbill Canoe Outfitters will remain closed until May 18th. If you are a local and would like to rent a canoe for a day paddle, give us a call and we can discuss options.

We applaud the Forest Service for this common sense approach. Allowing day use makes sense for those of us that live near the Wilderness and continuing the overnight closure maintains consistency with guidance from the State.

-Dan