The Forest Service stated in a release that "these restrictions are necessary for the public’s health and safety due to administrative work being conducted by employees and dogsleds on the trail hauling materials and supplies." By limiting public traffic, the Forest Service aims to "protect the safety of Forest Service staff and sled dogs using the trails for material hauling."

The closure schedule is divided into two weekday periods. The first begins on Monday, Jan. 19, at 12:01 p.m. and ends on Friday, Jan. 23, at 12:01 p.m. The second begins Monday, Jan. 26, at 12:01 p.m. and ends Friday, Jan. 30, at 12:01 p.m., or until the order is rescinded. During these periods, the public is prohibited from "going into or being upon the Described Area" and "being on Described Trail," as stated in the Forest Order, including the Eagle Mountain Trailhead parking lot near the intersection of Forest Roads 170 and 158. It also includes the entire Eagle Mountain Trail area from the trailhead to the junction of the Brule Lake Trail and the summit.

Anyone violating this order could be charged with a Class B misdemeanor and fined up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or face up to six months in jail. 

For additional information, contact the Gunflint Ranger District Office in Grand Marais at 218-387-1750 or the Superior National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Duluth at 218-626-4300.