safety
Boundary Waters closure puts Ely tourism and jobs at risk
By Cory Knudsen at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC)
· July 14, 2026
· 2 min read
The Boundary Waters closure due to multiple wildfires is disrupting travel plans and raising concerns about safety, jobs and local businesses in Ely.
RELATED: Wildfire evacuation orders in northern Minnesota as BWCA officially closes; Chopper 5 captures scene
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area ...
Key takeaway RELATED: Wildfire evacuation orders in northern Minnesota as BWCA officially closes; Chopper 5 captures scene The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness covers more than 1,500 square miles and has more than 2,000 campsites.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
The closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has significant implications for the local economy in Minneapolis 's neighboring communities, particularly in Ely. As a major tourist destination, the Boundary Waters generates substantial revenue and supports thousands of jobs in the region. The economic toll of the closure will likely be felt throughout the summer season, which is a critical period for many local businesses. In the Twin Cities area, outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers often plan trips to the Boundary Waters, and the closure may lead to a shift in travel plans, potentially affecting local outfitters and guide services that operate in the region. The impact of the closure will be closely watched by local business owners and residents, who will be eager to see the area reopen and tourism activity resume.
About this story
Original reporting by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 14, 2026 ·
Source: KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The Boundary Waters closure due to multiple wildfires is disrupting travel plans and raising concerns about safety, jobs and local businesses in Ely.
RELATED: Wildfire evacuation orders in northern Minnesota as BWCA officially closes; Chopper 5 captures scene
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 14, 2026 by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Cory Knudsen at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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