BWCAW

This data layer indicates the boundaries for the Bundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). It was developed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The BWCAW is located in the northern section of the Superior National Forest. It was established in 1978 and covers more than one million acres of pristine lakes, streams, wetalnds, and forest. With over 1200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails, and 2000 campsites, it is one of the most popular Wilderness Areas in the United States. Because of its designation as a Wilderness Area, it is subject to special regulations that limit activites that can take place within. Development and resource extraction projects occurring near the BWCAW are also subjected to increased regulatory and social scrutiny.