Local News

Portion of BWCA closed for new fire as crews mop up Brimson Complex

KAXE | By Megan Buffington

Published May 28, 2025 at 4:03 PM CDT

An aerial view of the Horse River Fire in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness north of Ely on May 23, 2025.

The Horse River Fire was estimated at 20-25 acres. Crews continue mop-up and repair work on the Brimson Complex fires, which are both nearly contained.

ELY — A wildfire burning in remote areas of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness north of Ely is growing, prompting a closure order from the Superior National Forest.

The Horse River Fire was visually estimated at 20-25 acres Wednesday, May 28, and is 0% contained. The Forest closed the winter route between Jackfish Bay and Lower Basswood Falls and the immediate fire area.

Paddlers are advised to stay away from the area. Two rangers are nearby, informing visitors and promoting safety.

The Horse River Fire closure issued May 28, 2025, by the Superior National Forest.

Thick duff and balsam firs are fueling the fire and complicating suppression. The National Incident Management Organization took over the fire Wednesday and said two wildland fire modules have been ordered. The crews of seven to 10 specialize in remote firefighting.

The management team also took over the Jenkins Creek Fire. Containment continues to increase, with lines around 84% of the 16,000-acre fire. Crews are patrolling the northeast edge where containment is incomplete and continue to mop up hot spots. Wood chipping work along 137 Road and Skibo Road should be finished by the end of the week.

A portion of the Superior National Forest in the area remains closed, though the size of the closure was reduced Friday. Cadotte Lake and Salo Lake remain closed, as do the Skibo Vista Observation Site, the Butterball Lake and Jenkins Creek trails/trailheads and the Stone Lake Carry Down.

A portion of the Superior National Forest near the Jenkins Creek and Camp House fires remains closed. The size of the closure was reduced May 23, 2025.

The Department of Natural Resources took over the Camp House Fire Wednesday. The fire has held steady at an estimated 12,000 acres and 90% containment.

Crews are working to repair areas impacted by fire suppression by redistributing soil and returning displaced vegetation to help native plants recover and prevent the spread of invasive species. Extra focus is being put on wild rice lakes, which are particularly sensitive.

The Jenkins Creek and Camp House fires as of May 28, 2025. The black lines indicate containment.

Evacuations for all fires were lifted Monday.

Fire activity may increase this week with temperatures rising and gusty winds returning.

The YMCA leases space at the Itasca Resource Center, where it operates WeeFolksgarten child care programming.