Steward Trail Fire Information Update for May 15, 2026
InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/mnmns-stewart-trail
Size: estimated 100 ac | Containment: 0% | Location: 3 miles north of Two Harbors, MN
Summary: The Stewart Trail Fire was detected during the afternoon hours on Friday, May 15, 2026, near Lake County Highway 3 and U.S. Highway 61 in Lake County Minnesota, 3 miles 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. Reminder – Don’t Fly Drones near the Stewart Fire – If you fly, we can’t!
Firefighters are working to establish a containment line around the fire with handlines and using heavy equipment, such as dozers. Fire crews are expected to remain engaged with the fire overnight.
A MNICS Type 3 Incident Management Team has been requested and will take over the management of the fire on Saturday, May 16. The team will continue to coordinate the continued response efforts.
Closures: Due to the impacts from heavy smoke and firefighting resources, U.S. Highway 61 is closed at County Highway 2 in Two Harbors and at the West Castle Danger Road County Highway 106 in Castle Danger, Minnesota.
Evacuations: Lake County has implemented the Ready, Set, Go notification plan. Current evacuation information can be refenced on the Lake County Fire Evacuation | Lake County Atlas Parcel Viewer.
Weather: Red Flag Warning conditions are in effect for Lake County, Minnesota on Friday, May 15, 2026 until 9:00 p.m. Fire weather conditions are expected to remain near-critical tomorrow with low humidity but lower winds.