05/16/2026
Update for the end of the day 5/15
🔥Stewart Trail Fire Update🔥
Size: estimated 100 ac | Containment: 0% | Location: 3 miles north of Two Harbors, MN
The Stewart Trail Fire was detected during the afternoon hours on Friday, May 15, 2026, near Lake County 3 and U.S. Highway 61 in Lake County, Minnesota, north of Two Harbors. The fire has grown to an estimated 100 acres and is 0% contained. Multiple local, state and federal agencies are responding to the Stewart Trail Fire, along with numerous aircraft capable of providing water and fire-retardant drops. A Reminder - If you fly, we can't! Please refrain from flying unauthorized drones near the Stewart Trail Fire.
A MNICS Type 3 Incident Management Team has been requested to assume management of the fire tomorrow, and will coordinate the continued response efforts.
Today: Firefighters are working to establish a containment line around the fire with handlines and heavy equipment, such as dozers, and are expected to remain engaged overnight as conditions permit.
Closures: Due to impacts from heavy smoke and firefighting resources, U.S. Highway 61 is closed at County Highway 2 in Two Harbors and at County Highway 106 (West Castle Danger Road) in Castle Danger, Minnesota.
Evacuations: Lake County has implemented the Ready, Set, Go notification plan. Current evacuation information can be referenced on the Lake County Fire Evacuation | Lake County Atlas Parcel Viewer - see full link in the comments.
Weather: A Red Flag Warning is in effect for Lake County, Minnesota, on Friday, May 15, 2026, until 9:00 p.m. Fire weather conditions are expected to remain at near-critical levels tomorrow due to low humidity, but wind speeds are forecast to be lower.