Copy shortlink: Users and outfitters of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are reading between the lines this spring to estimate when the nation’s most-visited federal wilderness will open to paddling, fishing, hiking and sleeping under the stars. When the U.S. Forest Service this week closed the BWCA through May 4 because of the coronavirus pandemic, the agency gave no assurance it will immediately reopen the area May 5. Indications are that the keys to canoe country rest in the hands of Gov. Tim Walz, who’s expected Friday to make a statement about outdoor recreation. “We are following the state’s lead in closing the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness,’’ Superior National Forest Supervisor Connie Cummins said in an e-mail to the Star Tribune. “This is based on Governor Walz’s Stay at Home order, as well as conversations we have had with local community leaders.’’