Local and Regional News – Friday 2/20/2026
Recent warm temperatures combined with heavy traffic have left winter trails in rough shape across Voyageurs National Park. Park officials say patches of exposed ground were showing through the snow in some areas, impacting both safety and ride quality.
About three inches of fresh snow fell this week, giving crews enough to resume grooming operations and extend the season. Snowmobilers in the Ash River area are urged to watch for snow berms and ruts left by fishermen plowing lake access near the trails.
Ice roads remain open in many areas, including Rainy Lake to Cranberry and Kabetogama Lake, though surfaces are reported to be slick with bare ice in spots. Officials remind travelers that traction and braking can be challenging and that ice is never 100 percent safe.
Most snowmobile, ski, and snowshoe trails remain open and groomed or packed, and the Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area sledding hill is open and groomed.
For the latest trail updates, visit the Alerts and Conditions page at nps dot gov slash voyageurs.
The United Way of Northeastern Minnesota is offering a free training opportunity for local nonprofits, booster clubs, and volunteer board members.
The Lead Local session, titled “Fundraising That Works,” will be held Monday, March 9th at 5:30 p.m. at the Minnesota North College in Hibbing.
Presenter Chris Fastner of True North Strategy will share fundraising tips and strategies drawn from more than 40 years of nonprofit experience. The training is open to volunteers serving organizations across the Iron Range, Koochiching County, and Lake of the Woods County.
Registration is free but required, and the deadline to sign up is February 27th at unitedwaynemn dot org slash leadlocal.
The International Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has opened nominations for its 2026 Annual Awards Gala, set for Thursday, April 23rd at The Thunderbird Lodge.
The gala honors individuals, businesses, and organizations that make International Falls a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Awards will be presented in four core categories: Citizen of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, and Non-Profit or Civic Organization of the Year.
New this year is a Hospitality Award, presented by the International Falls, Ranier and Rainy Lake Conventions and Visitors Bureau, recognizing exceptional contributions to tourism and visitor experience.
Nomination forms are available at ifallschamber.com under the Events tab or at the Chamber office on 2nd Avenue. Completed nominations can be emailed to jj@intlfalls.org.