The number of visitors to the Boundary Waters dropped in 2022, returning to pre-pandemic levels. But the number of permit cancellations and no-shows continued to rise.
The U.S. Forest Service plans to reduce the number of entry permits for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness next year, citing damage to natural resources, crowding and congestion.
The U.S. Forest Service has expanded closures in the BWCA due to the Whelp Fire. The fire has grown to 25-30 acres. It now includes the Lady Chain of Lakes.