Gunflint Trail Canoe Races postponed amid wildfires, “Set” evacuation orders

Organizers have postponed the Gunflint Trail Canoe Races because of ongoing wildfire activity and the “Set” evacuation orders along the Gunflint Trail.

The Gunflint Lake Property Owners Association and race organizers said they are working to identify a new date for the event.

” We know how much this event means to so many of you, and we remain committed to holding the Canoe Races as soon as conditions safely allow. We will share additional information as soon as a new date has been determined,” race organizer Graham Gillette said in a public statement.

As of Tuesday morning, residents near the end of the Gunflint Trail were under a “Set” evacuation status because of a wildfire burning near the Canadian border. Officials have warned that the fire could cross into Minnesota. The “Set” status means that residents should “Pack your emergency items. Know how to receive and stay aware of the latest news and information on the fire from local media, your local fire department, and public safety.”

The FOR028 Fire is currently at 6,000 acres as of Tuesday evening.

Air quality conditions also deteriorated throughout the day, with much of Cook County experiencing hazardous levels of wildfire smoke.

Gillette encouraged community members to find other ways to show their support for the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these fires, and our heartfelt thanks go to the firefighters, emergency responders, public safety officials, and volunteers who continue working under incredibly difficult conditions,” Gillette said.

WTIP is providing ongoing coverage of the wildfires burning across the Superior National Forest and the Arrowhead region. The latest updates are available on WTIP’s website.

Josh Hinke July 15, 2026