Lightning ignites small fire on Lake Three in BWCA

The U.S. Forest Service reported a small lightning-ignited fire on Lake Three in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Tuesday afternoon.

A Facebook post from the Forest Service stated, “There is currently a fire burning in a single tree on the south end of Lake 3 (on a 15-acre island) within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The fire was caused by lightning during last week’s storms. Firefighters are on scene and taking appropriate action for the situation. There are no imminent threats to public safety.”

Tree that started on fire on Lake Three | USDA Forest Service image by C. Skustad

The permit system has not been changed, and Lake Three remains open to the public. The Forest Service is asking people to stay clear of the fire for their safety and reminding the public that drones are not permitted in the wilderness.

WTIP has reached out to the Forest Service for updates and will provide them as the situation develops.

Josh Hinke May 20, 2025