PlansMatter architectural vacation rentals

Welcome!

Gunflint Lake Cabin

1 Essential Information 2 House Truths + Rules 3 Operating Instructions 4 Local Eats, Drinks + Provisions 5 Local Activities

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !1 of !6 architectural vacation rentals Essential Information

Location Gunflint Lake Cabin is north! Canada is right across the lake. The cabin is 47 miles from the nearest town, Grand Marais, a 1.5 hour drive. We recommend you plan to arrive before nightfall and stop in Grand Marais on your way to the cabin for supplies and a bite to eat. If you forget a few things (like coffee or insect spray) there are general stores nearby that stock basic provisions.

Gunflint Lake Cabin is a place to disconnect from technology. Cell phone service generally stops 10 miles up the Gunflint Trail out of Grand Marais and there is no internet service at the cabin.

Address 611 South Gunflint Lake Road, Grand Marais MN 55604

Parking + Front Door There is exterior parking for 2 cars immediately adjacent to the cabin. The front door of the cabin is the single solid pine door. Not the multiple glass deck doors.

Check-In 3pm

Check-Out 2pm

Check-In/Out Process The cabin will be unlocked when you arrive and you can leave it unlocked when you depart. There is no need to lock the cabin if you are on the water or exploring the area.

Day-to-Day Contact PlansMatter, [email protected], 800.921.6067

Emergency Contact Greg and Barb Gecas, owners of Heston's Lodge, 218-338-2243

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !2 of !6 architectural vacation rentals

Cabin Telephone The phone number for the cabin’s land line is 218.388.2211. To make long distance calls dial 1010297, then 1+area code and phone number. Or use a credit card.

Safety First Aid Kit. Located in the pantry. Fire. One fire extinguisher is located in the hallway closet and another in the sauna. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are located throughout the cabin. Outdoor Fire Pit. It is essential that you determine if fires are allowed in the area at the time of your visit (stop by or call Heston’s Lodge 218-388-2243). Please be sure that sparks do not escape and that fires are properly extinguished. There is a five-gallon bucket in the basement to be filled with water at the outside faucet. Please have this standing by. The owners are very cautious about fires, as the cabin was built in the aftermath of the 2007 Ham Lake Fire which burned 75,000 acres of forest. Its ecological impact can be observed throughout the area. Swimming. Swim shoes are required if you are going in the water as the 150 foot shoreline is mostly a rock-covered beach. You are welcome to enjoy water activities at your own risk. Wildlife. Do not leave any doors open as animals are quick to enter. Also, if you feed the birds, be sure to return the dish and seeds to the sauna at night so bears are not attracted. Pests. Northern Minnesota is notorious for its mosquitoes — locals call them the “state bird”. We recommend that you bring bug repellant.

Where to Find What Cleaning supplies are located under the kitchen sink, in the hallway closet and in a container in the pantry. The first aid kit is in the pantry. One fire extinguisher is located in the hallway closet and another the sauna. Kayaks, canoe and life jackets are in the basement storage.

What You Can Use Please help yourself to anything you may find in the kitchen — if something is depleted, please leave a note on the table so the item may be replenished. There are bathrobes in the sauna for your use — leave them in the laundry basket after you are finished. You may use the outdoor grill, but we ask that you not move it to the deck. The canoe, kayak, life jackets, and snow shoes are all available for your use. As a rule of thumb, almost everything is at your disposal except the outboard motor and chain saw.

Departing the Property Please place any soiled laundry — robes, towels, etc — in the laundry basket. Please empty the refrigerator of any perishables you brought to the cabin. Garbage and recycling can be left at the cabin for disposal after your departure. You can leave the cabin unlocked when you depart, but please be sure all cabin doors and windows are closed.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !3 of !6 architectural vacation rentals

Directions Gunflint Lake Cabin is located 47 miles from Grand Marais, on the south shore of Gunflint Lake. The Gunflint Trail is a paved road. The last three miles of South Gunflint Lake Road are gravel. Take MN Highway 61 north from Duluth to Grand Marais. Follow the signs through Grand Marais to reach the Gunflint Trail (also known as County Road 12). Turn left on County Road 12 and follow it for approximately 45 miles.

Turn right on Cook County Road 20 (also known as Old County Road 50 and South Gunflint Lake Road). There is a sign at the junction that points you in the direction of Heston's Lodge. Take this road for approximately 3 miles past Gunflint Lodge and Gunflint Pines.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !4 of !6 architectural vacation rentals

About one-quarter of a mile from the Gunflint Lake Cabin there is a fork to the Mile O’Pine Road. Keep left at this fork to stay on County Road 20.

County Road 20 ends at Heston’s Lodge.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !5 of !6 architectural vacation rentals

At the lodge entrance, make a very sharp right turn and follow the lodge road as it curves to the left through the woods.

At Heston’s Lodge make sharp right and follow winding road through woods

Just before you get to the cabin, the road forks. Stay to the right. You will soon see the cabin.

At the fork in the road, turn right.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !6 of !6 architectural vacation rentals

The cabin (#611) will be immediately on your left.

Map through Heston’s to Gunflint Lake Cabin. It’s a short drive but it can be tricky.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !1 of !2 architectural vacation rentals House Truths

Just So You Know Family Cabin. Gunflint Lake Cabin is dearly loved and frequently used by the owners and their extended network of family and friends. Many of the objects in the cabin — such as the dishes, rugs, quilts, and pottery — have personal meaning. More details can be found under Architectural Description. Technology. No internet. No cell phone reception. No TV. Staying at Gunflint Lake Cabin allows you to disconnect from technology and connect with the natural surroundings. Music. The Tivoli Model One radio picks up a public station out of Grand Marais. It’s fascinating! There is a cable near the radio which you can plug into the head phone jack on your device and play music. Location. Gunflint Lake Cabin offers the best of both worlds. While the cabin is 1.5 hrs north of Grand Marais near the Canadian border, there are a few nearby privately owned cabins and you are right next to Heston’s Lodge. It is best to arrive before dark if possible. Gunflint Lake. The lake is a very large, sparsely populated, “motor-traffic” region within and adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Although motor boats tend to be few, and much quieter than lakes further south, you will likely come across other people on the water. Shoreline. There is no dock on the shoreline. Canoes and kayaks are launched from land so you will get your feet wet. Water shoes are highly recommended. Access to the water is to the east side of the property away from the boulders over the intake for the water system. Canoe and Kayaks. It can require some finesse to access the basement storage (see Operating Instructions) and some strength to carry the canoe and kayaks down to the water. Sauna Shower. The outdoor shower is only available in the summer. For the other months you can use the indoor shower, run down to the lake, or jump in the snow. Critters. Yes, there are critters! Sometimes in your space! Woodpeckers peck at the wood siding and squirrels nibble on the porch screens. To combat this problem, the owner sometimes must cover areas of the house with green tarps — please leave the tarps in place. You will also see the occasional mouse. If a mouse makes its way indoors and bothers you, please contact Barb for assistance. Insects. Yes, there are insects! Bring repellant. Spiders also build cobwebs on the exterior of the cabin. They are busy, busy, busy. Potable Water. You may notice a waterline running from the lake up to the house. The water at the cabin is filtered and perfectly safe to drink. Bring your own bottled water if you prefer. Maximum Guests. There is a 6 guest maximum, but only 5 beds. A cot can be provided for a sixth guest if needed. Minimum Stay. While there is a 2-night minimum stay, we suggest a 3-night stay if you are traveling from the Twin Cities (or beyond).

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !2 of !2 architectural vacation rentals House Rules

Compliance Required Smoking. No smoking allowed anywhere on the property. Pets. No pets allowed anywhere on the property. Off Limits. Please do not use the rowboat with outboard motor nor the chain saw. And do not move the outdoor grill onto the deck. Water Activities. Kayaks, a canoe, and life jackets are available for you to use. Swimming shoes are required as the beach is rocky. You are welcome to enjoy all of these water activities at your own risk. Fire Pit. It is essential that you determine if fires are allowed in the area at the time of your visit (stop by or call Heston’s Lodge 218-388-2243). Please be sure that sparks do not escape and that fires are properly extinguished. There is a five-gallon bucket in the basement to be filled with water at the outside faucet. Please have this standing by if you use the outdoor fire pit. The owners are very cautious about fires, as the cabin was built in the aftermath of the 2007 Ham Lake Fire which burned 75,000 acres of forest. Its ecological impact can be observed throughout the area. Wildlife. Animals are quick to enter the cabin. If you are at the water, please be sure all of the cabin doors are closed — including the glass doors leading to the deck and the door to where the kayaks and canoe are stored. The lower level door must be closed at all times. If you feed the birds, be sure to bring the dish and seeds in at night to avoid attracting bears. Wood Stove. Please leave the ashes in the stove. Septic. As with all septic systems, only human waste and toilet tissue may go in the toilet; no other items, even if marked “flushable”. Additional House Rules. While the owners travel through Heston’s Lodge to get to the cabin, they are neighbors, not guests, of the lodge. As such, they respect the privacy of the lodge owners and guests and request that you do as well. Barb and Greg Gecas have been operating Heston’s Lodge since 1989 and are a lovely local family. They are happy to help you anyway they can — emergencies at the cabin, directions to the snowshoe paths, recommendations for day paddling adventures, basic supplies from the general store, tips on building a fire or just a friendly hello.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !1 of !3 architectural vacation rentals Operating Instructions

Heating Heating is in-floor electric; it will be on and the cabin warm when you arrive. If you would like to adjust the temperature there are three thermostats/zones.

Cooling, Ventilation + Fan There is no AC, but the cabin has a ventilation system that is adjusted seasonally. The ceiling fan in the living area has a switch on the adjacent wall and a remote control on the desk.

Electrical While unlikely, in the event of a power outage check the circuit breakers and the electrical box outside along the road to the south. For repair, Arrowhead Electric Cooperative provides 24- hour service. Call 218.663.7239 or 800.864.3744.

Deck Doors The outer deck doors are unlocked by raising the handle while turning the round knobs to the right. They are locked by raising the handle while turning the knobs to the left. Once you open a deck door, it can be locked in any position by moving it to the desired position and raising the handle. Release the door by pushing the handle down.

The deck doors should be closed if you leave the cabin, even to go to the shore. Bears are active in the area and everyone has a story of the time a bear entered their cabin.

Sauna There will be matches, kindling and wood in the sauna for the sauna stove. You will need to add wood as the sauna heats up — it gets very hot so be sure to monitor the temperature. There is a thermometer in the sauna and 160 degrees is cited as a good temperature although you may want it a bit hotter. If desired, there is a wooden bucket for adding water to the rocks on top of the sauna stove for steam. There are bathrobes in the sauna closet — please leave them in the laundry basket when you are finished.

The shower adjacent to the sauna is available to use during the summer months; in the winter consider jumping in the snow! Also note that if temperatures have been below zero the sauna can take an hour or more to heat up, but it’s well worth the wait.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !2 of !3 architectural vacation rentals

Wood Stove The Rais wood stove handbook is located by the stove. The stove is very efficient and adds significant heat to the main area. There will be matches, kindling and wood indoors by the stove. Leave the ashes in the stove to be cleaned after your departure.

A few tips: use the fire starters provided and the newspapers from the pantry if desired. Select small pieces of wood to begin with (stored under the wood stove). Move the lever at the bottom of the stove up and all the way to the right. Once the fire is lit, close the door, but do not latch it (in order to increase the draft). Once the fire has taken hold, latch the door and move the lever to the left (but not all the way to the left) and down.

Fire Pit It is essential that you determine if fires are allowed in the area at the time of your visit (by stopping by or calling Heston’s Lodge 218.388.2243). Please be sure that sparks do not escape and that fires are properly extinguished. There is a five-gallon bucket in the basement to be filled with water at the outside faucet. Please have this standing by.

The owners are very cautious about fires, as the cabin was built in the aftermath of the 2007 Ham Lake Fire which burned 75,000 acres of forest. Its ecological impact can be observed throughout the area.

Bird Feeder In the sauna there is a blue ceramic dish which can be filled with bird seed from the plastic bucket. Place it outside on the deck table and enjoy the avian activity! The dish and seeds must be returned to the sauna at night in order to not attract bears.

Clothes Dryer The dryer requires a long cycle time — the “timed dry” setting is recommended.

Garbage + Recycling Please empty the refrigerator of any perishables you may have brought with you. Garbage and recycling can be left at the cabin for disposal after your departure.

Basement Garage Access To get to the kayaks, canoe and life jackets you will need to access the basement garage. Raise and latch the trapdoor in the middle bedroom. Descend the ship’s ladder stair facing forward and beginning with the left foot. Hold the trapdoor with your left hand and the edge of the floor with your right hand, then grab the bar in front. The basement light switch is on the ceiling, just to the right as you descend the stairs.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !3 of !3 architectural vacation rentals

Basement Garage Door From inside the garage, unlock the garage door by placing your right foot on the metal tab and pushing down while sliding the locking lever to the left. Raise the door using the two black straps. Do not place your fingers on the door itself or you may get them caught between the panels.

Release the bolts at the top and bottom of the left door in order to open the outer doors (from the outside) and then open the screen doors. There are pegs at the top and bottom of the screen doors to hold them in place. Be sure to not leave the door open lest wildlife enters and please lock the door again when leaving the cabin.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !1 of !2 architectural vacation rentals Eats, Drinks + Provisions

Cooking At the Cabin. We recommend preparing homemade meals at Gunflint Lake Cabin to enjoy on the deck, screened porch, or at the dining table and benches. A variety of cast iron cook and bake ware, a four burner cooktop and full oven are available for your use. There is also a small grill on the property, but we ask that you not move it to the deck. Basic cooking supplies, such as flour, sugar, olive oil, vinegar, spices, oatmeal, baking powder and soda are in the pantry. There is a Krups espresso maker and a Mellita pour-over coffee maker to get you started in the morning — both take ground beans. Please feel free to use anything you may find in the kitchen.

Provisions Grand Marais. Stock up for your stay. Your first stop in Grand Marais could be the Dockside Fish Market, located lakeside on Highway 61 as you drive through town. This family run business specializes in brown sugar brine smoked fish and local fresh fish such as herring, lake trout, whitefish and walleye. You can also find flown-in fresh salmon, halibut, tuna, shellfish and more. Open April - December.

The Cook County Whole Foods Co-Op is just one block below the stoplight as you continue on Highway 61. Since 1976 this Co-Op has been providing the community with affordable, healthy and sustainable products and services. Ask about their local items if you are looking for a gift — perhaps something from Superior Herbals, Hands of Harvest Soap or Wild Country Maple Syrup. Along with the seasonable produce, check out the Co-Op’s cheese and meat departments. Don’t forget the fair trade coffee and tea!

The Grand Marais Municipal Liquor Store is near the Co-Op. If you’d like to try Northern Minnesota’s local craft beer, the Voyager Brewing Company offers growlers to go.

There are two other grocery stores in Grand Marais, both along Highway 61: Johnson’s Foods and IGA Gene’s Foods. www.docksidefishmarket.com www.cookcounty.coop www.voyageurbrewing.com

Gunflint Trail. What if you forgot a few things? If you need a few basic supplies while at the cabin, Heston’s Lodge maintains a small store with an eclectic selection of groceries. Gunflint Pines, two miles away on County Road 50, stocks a larger variety.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !2 of !2 architectural vacation rentals www.hestons.com www.gunflintpines.com

Restaurants Duluth. If you’d like to stop for lunch on your way to the cabin, we recommend New Scenic Cafe for the area’s most inspired cooking. The cafe features an eclectic array of colorful, artfully composed and subtly delicious fare. The serene surroundings, expert service and picturesque lakeside location — roughly 20 minutes up the shore from downtown Duluth — only add to the experience.

Grand Marais. Lunch at the Gunflint Tavern in Grand Marais is always relaxed and you will find a nice craft beer and wine selection. The menu is mostly organic pub fare with a variety of ethnic dishes thrown in. They’ve got a rooftop deck — the Raven’s Nest - with an unobstructed harbor view. The tavern is located in the historic Grand Marais State Bank Building with the Johnson Heritage Trading Post right next door. You can imagine this was the block where trappers, miners and explorers stopped before heading north on the Gunflint Trail.

Other lunch options in Grand Marais to consider the Crooked Spoon Cafe for a seasonal menu featuring local food, beer and a wine bar. The Angry Trout Cafe, open May through October, is a small indoor/outdoor restaurant in an old commercial fishing shanty right on Grand Marais Harbor. The menu features Lake Superior fish, local produce and hand-harvested wild rice. You can’t go wrong with a wood-fired pizza from Sydney’s Custard. Consider stopping at World’s Best Donuts to see that they live up to their moniker. www.newsceniccafe.com www.gunflinttavern.com www.crookedspooncafe.com www.angrytroutcafe.com www.worldsbestdonutsmn.com

Gunflint Trail. If you choose not to cook dinner at the cabin, we recommend the Trail Center Lodge on the shores of Poplar Lake — about 18 miles from the cabin, back down the Gunflint Trail on County Road 12. Originally built as a logging camp, Trail Center Lodge is now a full service restaurant, gas station, gift store, small grocery shop and information center. The Gunflint Lodge, serving Northwoods fare on Gunflint Lake, is just 2.5 miles from the cabin on County Road 20. www.trailcenterlodge.com www.gunflint.com

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !1 of !4 architectural vacation rentals Local Activities

Entertainment No internet. No cell phone reception. No TV. Staying at Gunflint Lake Cabin allows you to disconnect from technology and connect with the natural surroundings.

There is a Tivoli Model One radio that picks up the local public station out of Grand Marais. It’s fascinating! Bring your own music player and use the cable by the radio to listen to your own music.

There are board games, cards, dominos, and a variety of magazines, novels and books about the North Country.

Arts + Culture Thirteen miles from the cabin, on Saganaga Lake near the end of the Gunflint Trail, the Chik- Wauk Museum and Nature Center presents the area’s natural and cultural history. Open daily from Memorial Day weekend through the third weekend of October. Hiking trails are accessible year-round and after hours. www.chickwauk.com

Hiking Be prepared! Take food and water with you! Also recommended: trail maps (available at the cabin or from Heston’s Lodge general store), bug repellent, sunscreen and comfortable footwear for potentially rough and slippery surfaces. Allow approximately 45 minutes per mile. Leave no trace.

The cabin is adjacent to the Border Route Trail, a footpath that is now part of the North Country Trail system. A number of loops and spur trails off of the Border Route make for great day hikes — you may want to ask Barb or Greg at Heston’s which they recommend at this time of year.

Just south of the Heston’s Lodge general store is the path to the Heston’s Lodge spur. In less than a half mile you will intersect the Gunflint Lake South Rim section of the Border Route Trail. Hiking west a half mile will take you to the intersection of the Brice Breon Trail that dips south to follow the shore of Loon Lake before connecting again to the Border Route Trail just past the Loon Lake Landing. Take note of the old growth cedar, look out for moose and listen for the loons. The round trip hike for the Brice Breon Trail loop is approximately five miles.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !2 of !4 architectural vacation rentals

Alternatively, from the intersection of the Heston’s Lodge spur and the Border Route Trail, you can take a 3-4 mile hike east to the Gunflint Lake Spur or the Crab Lake Trail. If you go as far as the Crab Lake Trail loop and head back to the cabin, the round trip hike is approximately 10 miles.

Further up the Gunflint Trail - about six miles from the cabin, so get in your car — is the east trailhead of the Kekekabic Trail, a 37-mile trek that that terminates near the westernmost portion of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. While the entire trail is a multi-day adventure for the experienced hiker, this trailhead is also the entrance to the Centennial Trail, a 3.3 mile loop that has become a new local favorite to hike. The Magnetic Rock Trail begins just 500 feet up the road from the Kekekabic trail head. Bring your compass, hike a mile and a half to an enormous rock, and test the magnetism! www.borderroutetrail.org www.fs.usda.gov/superior/hiking

Canoeing + Kayaking There are two one-passenger 10' kayaks, one two-passenger kayak, a canoe and life jackets for you to use. Water shoes are highly recommended. Safety first: bring food and water, maps or a compass, sunblock and insect repellant. Be sure to wear a lifejacket and paddle close to shore. It can require some finesse to access the basement storage (see Operating Instructions for further details) and some strength to carry the canoe and kayaks down to the water.

The cabin is located on the south shore of Gunflint Lake, about halfway down the length of the lake. There are great options for day paddling in either direction. To the northwest is Magnetic Lake and to the east is Little Gunflint Lake.

If you paddle east three miles on the south shore of Gunflint Lake you will come to a rocky beach — just south of an island and near a small creek inlet. A short walk into the woods brings you to the base of Bridal Falls. There is a connecting trail to reach the top of the falls, which meets up with the Border Route Trail.

If you paddle to the west, you can go to Magnetic Lake, and on to Little Rock Falls. This is an entry point into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area and is approximately seven miles away. The portage to the falls is a short hike, mostly over rock, with some ups and downs to negotiate. Please be aware that the BWCA is a very rugged terrain with rocky shorelines. Hauling kayaks to the water and portaging can be a difficult part of engaging with the land and forest.

Please note that visiting Canada on the north shore of Gunflint Lake requires a Remote Area Border Crossing Permit that must be obtained six to eight weeks in advance.

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !3 of !4 architectural vacation rentals

Fishing Gunflint Lake has a long fishing history. The lake is home to walleye, lake trout, northern, and smallmouth bass. We recommend fishing guide Cory Christianson (218.338.0314) with Christianson’s Guide Service who can provide a motorized boat to take you to Saganaga Lake. Be sure to obtain your fishing license and check that it is open season before fishing. www.gunflintfishingguide.com www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishmn

Horseback Riding Horseback riding in the Superior National Forest is available at Gunflint Lodge Riding Stables, May through October only. Gunflint Lodge is two and a half miles west of the cabin on County Road 20. www.gunflintridingstables.com

Snowshoeing There are six sets of snowshoes for you to use at the cabin. Trails accessible directly from the cabin include the Gunflint Lake South Rim, Bryce Breon Trail and the Border Route Trail. Ask Barb or Greg at Heston’s Lodge what trails are in the best condition, for help planning a route or the locations of the warming huts along the trails.

Just south of the Heston’s Lodge general store is the path to the Heston’s Lodge spur. In less than a half mile you will intersect the Gunflint Lake South Rim section of the Border Route Trail. Traveling west a half mile will take you to the intersection of the Brice Breon Trail. This loop dips south to follow the shore of Loon Lake before connecting again to the Border Route Trail just past the Loon Lake Landing. Take note of the old growth cedar and look out for moose! The Brice Breon Trail loop is approximately five miles.

Approximately six miles up the Gunflint Trail - so get in your car — are the Magnetic Rock Trail and Centennial Trail. The Centennial Trail is a 3.3 mile loop starting at the Kekekabic trailhead. The Magnetic Rock Trail begins just 500 feet up the road from the Kekekabic trail head. Bring your compass, travel a mile and a half to an enormous rock and test the magnetism. www.borderroutetrail.org www.bwca.cc/snowshoeing/trails

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com PlansMatter !4 of !4 architectural vacation rentals

Cross Country Skiing The cabin is part of the Upper Gunflint Trail System with groomed ski trails. You can access the trail system directly from the cabin. The Upper Gunflint Trail Ski Pass is required and can be purchased at local lodges.

If you’ve brought your own skis, stop over to Heston's Lodge for your pass, current trail conditions, location of the warming huts and help planning your route. Ski and equipment rentals are offered at Gunflint Pines — just a few miles west of the cabin. They can also recommend trails accessible directly from their property. www.gunflintpines.com www.bwca.cc/skiing/trailconditionsgunflint

2418 Bryant Avenue South | Minneapolis MN 55405 USA | 800.921.6067 | [email protected] | www.PlansMatter.com Gunflint Hiking Tofte SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST NORTH SHORE AREA TOFTE & GRAND MARAIS, MN

What a nice day for a hike! Pine trees, birch forests, rugged hills, wooded bogs, and even a great lake - this area has it all for the hiker. From day hikes of an hour or less, to extended backpacking trips, come and enjoy any of the beautiful trails northeastern Minnesota has to offer. These trails include those maintained by the USDA Forest Service, National Park Service, Minnesota DNR and State Parks, and local municipalities. See the keyed map inside for approximate locations of trails, but stop at a ranger station or park headquarters for a Forest Map to find your way to the trailhead and to inquire about trail maps. 1. CARIBOU FALLS 9. WHITE SKY ROCK Moderate; 1.5 mile Moderate; 1 mile Access: Wayside rest off Hwy. 61, 8 miles south of Schroeder Access: Caribou Trail (Co. Rd. 4) A pleasant walk along the Caribou River leads to Caribou Falls. Continue A steep hike to the cliff tops offers a panoramic view of Caribou Lake. It’s a along the Superior Hiking Trail or return to the wayside parking area. spectacular fall color hike.

2. SUGARLOAF INTERPRETIVE TRAIL 10. CASCADE RIVER HIKES Easy; 1.5 mile Moderate to difficult; 18 miles, various loops Access: Hwy. 61, 6 miles south of Schroeder Access: Cascade State Park, Highway 61 Trail travels through woods and along ledge rock to Sugarloaf Beach. Trail Hiking along both sides of the river gorge with views of the waterfalls. guide available at parking area. Other trails follow the rocky terrain along Lake Superior or wind through the forest to Lookout Mountain. Maps are available at Cascade State Park. 3. CROSS RIVER TRAIL Moderate; 0.5 mile 11. EAGLE MOUNTAIN TRAIL Access: Cross River wayside rest, Highway 61 Moderate to difficult; 7miles Here’s a gradual climb with great views of the river gorge. Continue up Access: Forest Road 170 river over the snowmobile trail to explore further, or return on the hiking trail Requires self-issuing day permit or overnight camping permit for to Highway 61. wilderness entry Eagle Mountain, at 2,301 feet, is the highest point in Minnesota. The trail is 4. TEMPERANCE RIVER rocky at its beginning and climbs in the last mile for a view of the Moderate; 6 miles, various trails surrounding hills, lakes, and creeks. Most of the trail is in the Boundary Access: Temperance River State Park Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Two developed campsites are found on Trails wind along both sides of the river past eight pools and seven overlooks Whale Lake at the base of the mountain. with sheer rocky ledges. It’s easy hiking, but use caution. Maps are available at Temperance River State Park. 12. SWEETHEARTS BLUFF Easy to difficult; 1 mile 5. CARLTON PEAK Access: Grand Marais Municipal Recreation Area Moderate; 3 miles The trail starts at the far west end of the trailer park. It’s a one-mile hike Access: Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) with picnic shelters and beautiful views of the harbor and shoreline. Gradual at first, then steep. This forest hike takes you to great views of Lake Superior. Steep cliffs at top; use caution with small children. 13. ARTISTS POINT & LIGHTHOUSE Easy; 0.5 mile 6. BRITTON PEAK Access U.S. Coast Guard Station, Grand Marais Difficult but short; 0.3 miles Exploring the shoreline rocks beneath the breakwater will reveal names of Access: Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) visitors back to 1892. Walk the trails to the east along Artist’s Point and A short climb offers you a great view of Lake Superior. Steep cliffs at top; enjoy the sights and sounds of the boreal forest. Walk west along a wide use caution with small children. cement pier to the lighthouse. Be sure to take your camera.

7. RAY BERGLUND WAYSIDE REST 14. PINCUSHION MOUNTAIN TRAILS Moderate; 0.5 mile Easy to difficult; 15 miles, various loops Access: Wayside stop, Highway 61 Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12), turn right on Co. Rd. 53 Follow the Onion River along this scenic path. Take the loop to Pincushion Mountain for a view of the Devil Track River gorge and a panorama of Lake Superior. Connections can be made here with 8. OBERG & LEVEAUX MOUNTAIN NATIONAL RECREATIONAL the Superior Hiking Trail. TRAILS Moderate; Oberg 2.2 miles, Leveaux 3.4 miles 15. DEVIL TRACK RIVER TRAIL Access: Forest Road 336 Moderate; 10 miles Both trails begin at the same parking lot off Forest Road 336. High Access: 4 miles east of Grand Marais on Hwy. 61 with a left on overlooks along Oberg give great views of Lake Superior, Oberg Lake, and Lindskoog Rd (Co. Rd. 58) for one mile Moose Mountain. Steep cliffs at top; use caution with small children. Hike 1.5 miles to the canyon, 2.5 miles to the foot bridge, or 5 miles to Leveaux Trail follows a ridge rising 1,000 feet above Lake Superior. Fall Pincushion Mountain. color is fabulous on both trails.

5/26/10 10/11 SAR Superior National Forest: Hiking Gunflint &Tofte More Trails 25. MAGNETIC ROCK TRAIL Easy; 3 miles 16. GEORGE WASHINGTON MEMORIAL PINES Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) Easy; 3 miles Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) Hike across Larch Creek to Magnetic Rock. The trail passes through 3 major The trail is an old road through a tall pine stand. It turns at Elbow Creek and disturbances: the 1999 blowdown, 2002 prescribed burn, and 2007 Ham Lake follows the creek before winding back into the forest. The trail crosses a wildfire. Look for young jack pine and fire specialist woodpeckers. swamp; if you don’t want to get your feet wet, you’ll have to turn around. Magnetic Rock is a 60-foot rock with strong magnetic attraction. Bring your compass and test the magnetism. The trail continues to connect with the 17. NORTHERN LIGHT OVERLOOK TRAIL Gunflint Lake Trails. Use a trail map for hiking past Magnetic Lake. Difficult but short; 1 mile Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) 28. KADUNCE RIVER TRAIL Climb one-half-mile to the top of Blueberry Hill. Outstanding vistas in Easy; 1.5 mile several directions above Northern Light Lake. Access: Hwy 61 E at Kadunce Wayside, 9 miles from Grand Marais Easy hiking takes you through the woods and along a river gorge. Take a 18. DANIELS LAKE TRAIL fishing pole – stream fishing is good. Connects to Superior Hiking Trail. Easy; 1.5 mile Access: Trailhead at West Bearskin Lake Boat Landing or 29. DEVIL’S KETTLE TRAIL Clearwater Lake Boat Landing Moderate; lots of stairways; 2.5 miles Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry Access: Highway 61 at Judge C.R. Magney State Park Access to the Border Route Trail. Public parking is available ¾ mile from The trail follows the Brule River with vistas of waterfalls and rapids. The either trailhead. 50-foot waterfall at the Devil’s Kettle mysteriously disappears into a hole in the basalt bedrock. Connects to Superior Hiking Trail. 19. HONEYMOON BLUFF TRAIL Difficult but short; 1.5 mile 31. THE GRAND PORTAGE Access: Clearwater Lake Road (Co. Rd. 66), near Flour Lake Moderate to difficult; 16 miles Campground Access: Grand Portage National Monument Here’s a short but steep walk to a beautiful overlook above Hungry Jack This historic trail, in use for hundreds of years, was used by Native Lake. Try a sunset hike, and be sure to take in the colorful view in autumn. Americans, European explorers, and fur trade-era Voyageurs. It winds through heavily wooded terrain and rises 630 feet from Lake Superior to the 20. CARIBOU ROCK TRAIL Pigeon River. A one-way hike takes approximately five hours. Campsites at Moderate to difficult; 1.5 or 7 miles historic Fort Charlotte on the Pigeon River require a permit, obtained free Access: Hungry Jack Lake Road (Co. Rd. 65) from the National Park Service. A separate brochure describing the portage Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry is available at the Great Hall inside the historic stockade area of the Grand A ¾ mile well-traveled walk takes you to a beautiful overlook of West Portage National Monument. Bearskin Lake, another 3/8 mile hike and you are at an overlook of Moss Lake. Continue walking over rugged and scenic terrain to Stairway Portage 32. MOUNT ROSE TRAIL and Rose Lake. Difficult but short; 1 mile Access: Grand Portage National Monument, Grand Portage 21. SOUTH LAKE TRAIL A self-guiding brochure is available for the hike. Climbing 300 vertical feet Moderate; 7 miles along a paved pathway, you’ll see many fine vistas of the bay and the historic Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) near Poplar Lake fur trade headquarters. Wayside exhibit panels explain the history of the fur Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry trade at Grand Portage. Entry point permit required for overnight use Extending from Poplar to South Lake, a portion of the trail is in the 33. PARTRIDGE FALLS Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The trail passes over Partridge Easy; 10 miles Lake with a developed overnight campsite. View tall red and white pines Access: Mineral Center Rd. (Co. Rd. 72) to Partridge Falls Rd. along the trail in the sections where it passes through the old forests. A five-mile walk along the Partridge River flats brings you to a beautiful 40- foot waterfall on the Pigeon River. 22. TOPPER LAKE TRAILHEAD / MUCKER LAKE TRAIL Easy; 1.5 miles; or 6 miles to Mucker Lake 34. GRAND PORTAGE STATE PARK Access: End of Forest Road 317 Easy and handicapped accessible Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry High Falls Trail – 0.5 mile; Middle Falls Trail – 3.5 miles Topper Lake is nestled among hills. Mucker Lake Trail intersects the Border Access: Grand Portage State Park Route Trail at South Lake. The High Falls Trail begins at the park office and goes north along the Pigeon River. A 700-foot boardwalk provides easy access on the last part of 23. CRAB LAKE TRAIL the trail. Three overlooks (one wheelchair accessible) give awesome views Easy; 8 miles of the 120-foot waterfall. The Middle Falls Trail begins at the park office Access: Loon Lake Lodge side road (just past lodge) and is a winding scenic trail that takes visitors over ridge tops, through Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry heavily wooded forest, and along the river bank. Visitors will appreciate the Access to Border Route Trail. semi-mountainous terrain with its breathtaking views of the river gorge and Lake Superior. 24. GUNFLINT LAKE TRAILS Moderate to difficult; 26 miles, various loops 35. MOUNT JOSEPHINE TRAIL Access: Loon Lake Landing or one of the resorts along Gunflint Difficult; 1.5 mile Lake. Access: Co. Rd. 17, Grand Portage Village High Cliffs Trail and South Rim Trail have spectacular views of Gunflint After parking in the lot adjacent to Co. Rd. 17, walk one-quarter mile to the Lake and the Canadian shore. Get the feel of the forest as you hike through trailhead. From there, a difficult 30-minute switchback climbs 800 feet, but dense growth between ridges. Maps are essential. Pick one up from an area it’s worth the effort. The top provides a glorious panorama of Lake Superior, resort before starting out. Pigeon Point, Isle Royale, and the Susie Islands. 5/26/10 10/11 SAR Superior National Forest: Hiking Gunflint &Tofte More Trails If you’re hiking into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness… 36. NINE MILE LAKE A permit is required for both overnight and day use. Moderate; 4 mile Access: Lake Co 7, 15 mi east of Tofte Limit of 9 people in a group. A nice walk starting across the road from Nine Mile Lake campground. The No cans or bottles. ‘loop’ part of the trail may be brushy and hard to follow. Overnight hikers must camp at a campsite (see map) 37. MANITOU OVERLOOK or at least 150 feet from the trail or lakeshore. Short but steep; 1 mile Fires, when allowed, only in the fire grates at Access: Forest Rd 361, 10 mi SE of Isabella campsites. Check for fire restrictions. Short trail to nice overlook. Rough road access. There are no trail signs in the wilderness. Use a 38. DIVIDE LAKE topographic map and compass to guide you. Moderate; 1 mile Access: FR 172 at Divide Lake Campground, 5 mi E of Isabella Loop goes around Divide Lake through some marshlands. Several Long designated photo spots. Distance 39. EIGHTEEN LAKE 26. SUPERIOR HIKING TRAIL Trails Easy loop around lake; 2 miles Moderate to difficult; 200 miles Access: FR 369, 4 mi NE of Isabella Access: Various locations Trail loops around lake starting from boat access. Some shore fishing This long distance trail follows the Lake Superior shore from Two opportunities. Harbors to the Canadian border. Spring brings a carpet of wildflowers, summer brings a harvest of berries, and fall offers a 40. FLATHORN LAKE panorama of color. There are spectacular vistas of Lake Superior, Easy; 2 miles memorable silhouettes of the Sawtooth Mountain Range, and Access: FR 177 (Midiwan Lake Rd, 1 mile N of MN 1 breathtaking glimpses of wild rivers as they cascade over waterfalls Nice trail from picnic area. Both big pines and some second growth. through rocky gorges. Trailheads are located at most County Road crossings and state parks. Current maps are available at U.S. Forest 41. MCDOUGAL LAKE Service offices, state park offices, local resorts and businesses, and Moderate; 1 mile from the Superior Hiking Trail Association in Two Harbors, MN. Access: From McDougal Campground off MN 1, 10 mi W of Isabella. 27. KEKEKABIC TRAIL Hike parallels shoreline, then veers into the woods in a circle. Some Moderate; 37 miles, various loops swampy and brushy areas. Trail sees little use, can be hard to locate in Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) 40 miles from Grand places. Marais Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry; entry 43. HOGBACK LAKE point permit required for overnight use Moderate; 4 miles The trail extends from the Gunflint Trail to County Road 18 near Ely. Access: FR 172, 12 mi E of Isabella The trail passes through the 2007 Ham Lake wildfire and is a good Trail loops around lake from boat landing. Several shore fishing spots. chance to see post fire ecology. Post fire soils are fragile, please stay on the trail. 44. LIMA MOUNTAIN Moderate; 1.1 mile 30. BORDER ROUTE TRAIL Access: FR 152 off of the Gunflint Trail Hike to nice view from top of Lima Mountain. Some steep areas. The trail Moderate to difficult; 70 miles and land is managed by the MN DNR. Access: Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12) Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness entry; entry 45. MOOSE VIEWING point permit required for overnight use Easy; 0.1 mile The trail extends from a trailhead on the Gunflint Trail to the Pigeon Access: 24 miles up the Gunflint Trail River below South Fowl Lake. Most of the trail passes through the Easy short trail to viewing platform by moose habitat. No guarantees! BWCAW (requires overnight permits for camping). It’s moderately 46. CENTENNIAL TRAIL rugged terrain, with many rock ledges and spectacular views. The Moderate to difficult, 3.3 mile loop. Partly on Kekekabic Trail trail passes through the 2007 Ham Lake wildfire and is a good chance Access: Kekekabic trail head, 40 mi up Gunflint Tr. from Grand to see post fire ecology. Post fire soils are fragile, please stay on the Marais trail. Windfalls are to be expected, and it may be difficult to follow The Centennial Trail follows an 1890’s railroad route to the ill-fated Paulsen the trail. Campsites can be found along lakeshores. For current trail Mine. A brochure and numbered posts will guide you. You'll see mine test pits, walk 1890's stone trestles, and see recent signs of fire and wind as you conditions and maps, contact the U.S. Forest Service in Grand Marais. retrace this historic attempt to extract iron ore. A short spur leads to the view from the former site of a fire tower. This new trail has a rough surface and 42. POWWOW TRAIL steep areas with no stairs. Half easy on old roadbed, N &NW portions difficult; 29 miles Access: FR 377, 17 mi N of Isabella 47. SEAGULL NATURE TRAIL 8/07/07 SAR Moderate; 0.7 mile Requires self-issuing day permit for wilderness Access: Trail’s End Campground at end of Gunflint Tr., 50 mi from entry; entry point permit required for overnight use Grand Marais. This loop leaves from the Isabella Lake parking area and passes This trail was re-established during the Ham Lake fire. It is a nice short hike through both forest and bogs. Be prepared for bugs and wet that allows you to see the patchy nature of the fire and how the forest conditions. Trail may be brushed over in sections, bring a good map, recovers. compass, and GPS if available.

5/26/10 10/11 SAR Superior National Forest: Hiking Gunflint &Tofte

!47

!25 24 !22 !27 ! !23 !21 !46 !30 20 !19 !18 Boundary Waters ! Canoe Area Wilderness

33 ! 34 !45 !31 !35 ! !44 16 Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Superior National Forest MN 152QR !32 18 !17 MN Boundary Waters Canoe Area 12 Kawishiwi Wilderness Gunflint MN District Æÿ61 District Superior National Forest District !11 QR170 MN27 MN12 QR140 170QR MN57 !29 340 !16 QR MN8 15 !42 MN3 ! !28 QR158 !14 Tofte !12!13 District ") 0051 5 100 QR356 MN7 Grand Marais 170 10 Miles QR 164 ! 369 QR r Miles QR MN7 erio !9 !26 Sup ake 348 4 Æÿ61 L QR369 QR MN Road !40 ") 2 39 MN 8 Lutsen ! QR172 43 ! Long Distance Trail !41 ! !6 7 172QR QR358 ! Isabella ") !38 5 Leave 359 ! ") Superior National Forest QR !36 Tofte No !37 !4 ") Wildlife Watching !3 Schroeder Trace MN2 Æÿ1 If you are lucky, you may see one of northern Minne- 26 2 Laurentian ! ! sota’s specialties: a bear, a moose, a black backed District 1 MN7 Æÿ61 ! woodpecker, or other animal. Regardless of what the 1. Plan ahead and prepare. animal is, respect its space, and enjoy the encounter. 2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. 3. Dispose of waste properly.

5/26/10 10/115/26/10 SAR 4. Minimize use and impact of Gunflint Ranger District LaCroix RangerTofte District Ranger District Need2020 W Hwymore 61 information?Need more information? fires. 320 NorthPO BoxHwy 2159 53 5. Respect wildlife. Grand Marais, MN 55604 on the web at: Cook,Tofte, MN 55723 MN 55615 6. Leave what you find. 218-387-1750 www.fs.usda.gov/superior 218-666-0020 Voice218-663-8060 and TTY 7. Be considerate of other visitors. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer Your Gunflint Trail Hosts

Bearskin Lodge   s   Big Bear Lodge & Cabins 218-388-0172 Clearwater Canoe Outfitters & Lodge   s   Golden Eagle Lodge A Wild Place to Hike   s   One of the best outdoor activities to be found along Gunflint Lodge northeastern Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail is recreational   s   hiking – and it’s possible to do it spring, summer, fall, Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters and winter. Chose your trail — from easy day hikes,   s   to challenging multi-day routes for overnight camping. Gunflint Pines Resort Trails meander through the Superior National Forest and   s   the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCAW), and include Heston’s Lodge access to The Border Route and Superior Hiking Trail.   s   Wildlife Hungry Jack Lodge   s   There are millions of reasons why we say the Gunflint Trail offers vacations of a different nature. Countless Hungry Jack Outfitters natural, wild, and scenic reasons. Moose, deer, loons,   s   wolves, pine marten, black bears, eagles, owls, fox, Loon Lake Lodge lynx, beaver, otters, dozens of birds and other animals   s   make up the wildlife in these north woods. Hundreds Cross River Lodge of species of songbirds, birds of prey, and waterfowl   s   live in or migrate through this unique boreal habitat. Nor’Wester Lodge Walleye, large and small mouth bass, lake trout,   s  &5. rainbow trout, and northern pike are the most prolific Poplar Creek Guesthouse fish species. Come hike, explore, experience, and enjoy.   s   Rockwood Lodge & Outfitters

Trail Safety   s   Be prepared for rough and slippery surfaces, especially on ledge rock. Wear comfortable boots or a well-built Seagull Creek Fishing Camp   s   jogging shoe with non-skid soles. Allow approximately 45 minutes per mile. Take along safety essentials: food Seagull Canoe Outfitters and water for longer hikes, first aid kit, compass and   s   Hiking on detailed maps, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Always Trail Center Resort 218-388-2214 let someone know where you are headed and when Trout Lake Resort The Gunflint Trail you expect to return.   s   Tuscarora Lodge & Canoe Outfitters Scenic Byway Leave No Trace   s   Please protect the thin soils and fragile plant life by Voyageur Canoe Outfitters staying on the main trail. Pack out everything you   s  #!./%)4 pack in. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Way of the Wilderness Outfitters   s   Gunflint Trail Information Windigo Lodge 1-800-338-6932   s   www.gunflint-trail.com

1. SUPERIOR HIKING TRAIL 2. EAGLE MOUNTAIN 5. KIMBALL LAKE FISHING TRAIL Features: Boreal and transition forest Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Features: Designated trout lake Longest hiking trail in the Midwest Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station office or Difficulty: Easy Spectacular Lake Superior overlooks outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Distance: 2 miles Difficulty: Moderate to difficult Features: Highest point in Minnesota (2,301 feet) Location: 10.9 miles up the Gunflint Trail, then 2 miles Distance: 200+ miles Spectacular vistas of BWCAW east on Trout Lake Road (Forest Road 140). Location: Access from Pincushion Mountain trail system. Two campsites Hiking the Trail: The trail starts at the Kimball Lake Drive 2.5 miles north of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail Historic fire tower site Campground and goes around the entire lake, and offers (County Road 12); turn right on County Road 53. Difficulty: Moderate with some steep and rocky terrain dozens of fishing spots cleared along the shoreline. Hiking the Trail: This long distance trail follows the Lake Distance: 7 miles (round trip) Superior shore from Two Harbors to the Canadian border. There Location: Take the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) from are spectacular vistas of Lake Superior, silhouettes of 6. NORTHERN LIGHT LAKE Highway 61 in Grand Marais 4.0 miles to County Road 8 on BLUEBERRY HILL the Sawtooth Mountain Range, and breathtaking glimpses your left (toward Devil Track Lake). Turn left on County Road 8, of wild rivers as they cascade over waterfalls through rocky drive 5 miles to County Road 27 and turn right. Drive 5 miles Features: Panoramic view of Northern Light Lake gorges. Trailheads are located at most County Road crossings to the junction of Forest Road 170 and turn left. Follow #170 Difficulty: Difficult, but short and state parks. Current maps are available at U.S. Gunflint 5 miles to the trailhead parking area. Distance: 1 mile (round trip) Ranger Station, state park offices, local resorts and businesses, Hiking the Trail: The first 2.5 miles of the trail gains elevation Location: Drive 13 miles north and from the Superior Hiking Trail Association in Two Harbors, gradually; the next half mile offers slightly more increase and of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Minnesota. the final half mile becomes rocky and steep, gaining elevation Trail (County Road 12). The trail- rapidly to the summit. The highest point is marked by a brass . PINCUSHION MOUNTAIN TRAILS head is 2.25 miles 1 survey disk placed toward the west side of the ridge. past Trout Lake Road. Features: Connections to Superior Hiking Trail Hiking the Trail: The top of Blueberry Hill offers outstanding Lake Superior overlook 3. WILDFLOWER INTERPRETIVE HIKE vistas above Northern Light Lake. Or, hike a short distance Difficulty: Easy to difficult Features: Wildflower interpretive signs down to the Brule River that flows into Northern Light Lake. Distance: 15 miles (various loops) Difficulty: Currently unmaintained NOTE: Portions of the trail have steep sections of exposed Location: Drive 2.5 miles north of Grand Marais on the Distance: Less than a mile bedrock that can be difficult to cross when wet. Gunflint Trail (County Road 12); turn right on County Road 53 Location: 5.7 miles north of Grand Marais on the Gunflint and drive 0.2 miles to parking. Trail (County Road 12) just before the Devil Track River bridge. 7. LIMA MOUNTAIN TRAIL Hiking the Trail: The trailhead parking lot offers a great view Look for a small brown sign that says “Wildflower Sanctuary.” Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. of Lake Superior and the Grand Marais harbor. There are a Hiking the Trail: A shaded walk along the edge of the Devil Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station or Track Rive with an interesting variety of native and non-native variety of hikes possible within this looping system of trails. outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Take the loop to Pincushion Mountain for a view of the Devil wild flowers, shrubs, trees, and grasses. Features: Beautiful vistas Track River gorge and a panorama of Lake Superior. The Historic fire tower site Pincushion Trail System connects with the Superior Hiking 4. GEORGE WASHINGTON Difficulty: Difficult Trail. Maps are available at trailhead and various locations MEMORIAL PINES Distance: 3 miles (round trip) along the trail. Features: White and red pine forest Location: Drive 21 miles north of Grand Marais on the Wildflowers Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn left on Forest Road 152. Go 2 miles to Forest Road 315. Lima Mountain trailhead is Difficulty: Easy located off Forest Road 315. Wilderness Permits Distance: 3 miles (round trip) Hiking the Trail: The Lima Mountain Trail is narrow, rocky, Permits are required to enter the Boundary Waters Location: 6.8 miles north of Grand Marais on the Gunflint and steep. Protruding rocks and roots make the footing Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Self-issued day use Trail (County Road 12). Turn left into the parking lot. difficult in places; be sure to wear good hiking shoes. Lima permits are available at trailheads. Overnight campers Hiking the Trail: The trail is an old road through a tall pine Mountain is the site of a former fire lookout tower (built in must have an entry point permit. Inquire at the Gunflint stand. It turns at Elbow Creek and follows the creek before 1935, staffed until 1955, and removed in 1978). At the top Ranger Station, 2020 West Highway 61, Grand Marais, winding back into the forest. The trail can get wet and muddy of the mountain, at an elevation of 2,238 feet, there is a MN, 55604, or call 218-387-1750 for more information. during rainy periods. panoramic view to the west of the Misquah Hills, which For BWCAW overnight permit reservations, also includes Eagle Mountain. call 877-550-6777 or visit RECREATION.gov Gunflint Trail Information 1-800-338-6932 www.gunflint-trail.com Wilderness Permits Permits are required to enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Self-issued day use permits are available at trailheads. Overnight campers must have an entry point permit. Inquire at the Gunflint 20 Ranger Station, 2020 West Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN, 55604, or call 218-387-1750 for more information. 19 For BWCAW overnight permit reservations, call 877-550-6777 or visit RECREATION.gov

CANADA

18 16 15 17 14 13 12 10 11 8. MOOSE VIEWING TRAIL 9 Features: Wildlife viewing platform 8 Interpretive signs Difficulty: Easy 7 Distance: 1 mile (round trip) Location: 22.1 miles north of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn left and drive to the parking lot. 13. TOPPER LAKE TRAILHEAD/ Hiking the Trail: Hike from the parking area for about a MUCKER LAKE TRAIL quarter mile along the snowmobile trail. The Moose Viewing Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Trail continues to the right, where it becomes a narrow path. Features: Access to Border Route Trail The moose viewing platform is on the right, down a narrow Difficulty: Easy 6 trail through the woods. Watch for interpretive signs along Distance: 1.5 miles (round trip) or 6 miles to Mucker Lake the way to learn more about moose. Location: Drive 33.9 miles north of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn right on Forest Road 317 5 Gunflint Trail 9. DANIELS LAKE (County Road 12) and drive 0.6 miles to parking area at the end of the road. Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Hiking the Trail: Topper Lake is nestled among hills. Mucker Features: Access to Border Route Trail Lake Trail intersects the Border Route Trail at South Lake. 17. CENTENNIAL TRAIL Difficulty: Easy Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 3.75 miles (round trip) 4 14. CRAB LAKE TRAIL Distance: 3.3 miles Location: Drive 27 miles north of Grand Marais on the Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. 3 Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn right on Clearwater Road 2 Location: Drive 47.8 miles north of Grand Marais on the Features: Access to Border Route Trail Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to the Kekekabic Trailhead. (County Road 22) and drive 4.3 miles to the parking area at 1 the West Bearskin Lake Boat Landing. Difficulty: Easy Parking and trailhead are on the left. Hiking the Trail: The trail follows the old Alger-Smith railroad Distance: 8 miles (round trip) Hiking the Trail: The Centennial Trail follows the path and grade which was acquired by the Northern Lumber Company Location: Drive 38.1 miles north of Grand history of the Port Arthur, Duluth, & Western Railroad route to gain access to white pine holdings on Rose and Clearwater Marais on the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). to the ill-fated Paulsen Mine. A trail brochure and numbered Lakes. The trail terminates at the Border Route Hiking Trail, Turn right on the road to Loon Lake Lodge Grand posts guide hikers along the trail, retracing this historic along the “Long Portage” between Rose and Rove Lakes. (County Road 51) and drive 0.9 miles to the Marais attempt to extract iron ore from Northern Minnesota. Trail trailhead, just past the lodge. features include mine test pits, late 1800's stone trestles, and 10. HONEYMOON BLUFF Hiking the Trail: This trail passes through wetlands, with recent signs of fire and wind. Follow the Round Lake Road a short spur to Crab Lake. Trail is often used as an access to the left (east) to the mowed snowmobile trail, walk to the Features: Scenic overlook Gunflint Trail, then walk the shoulder back to the Kekekabic Perfect for viewing sunsets to the Border Route Trail. Trailhead parking area. Difficulty: Difficult but short 15. GUNFLINT LAKE TRAILS Distance: 1.5 miles (round trip) 18. MAGNETIC LAKE TRAIL Features: Access to Border Route Trail Location: Drive 27 miles north of Grand Marais on the Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn right on Clearwater Road Interpretive signs on some trails Spectacular vistas from overlooks Features: 60-foot rock with strong magnetic pull (County Road 22) and travel 2.3 miles to the parking lot at Connects with Gunflint Lake trails the trailhead. (The trailhead is located 1/4 mile past the road Difficulty: Moderate to difficult Difficulty: Easy to Flour Lake Campground.) Distance: 26 miles (various loops) Distance: 3 miles (round trip) Hiking the Trail: This short trail with a long set of wooden Location: Drive 44.7 miles north of Grand Marais on the stairs leads to a spectacular rocky overlook. Look out over Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to South Gunflint Lake Road Location: Drive 47.8 miles north Hungry Jack Lake, East Bearskin Lake, West Bearskin Lake, (County Road 20) which leads to the Gunflint Lake resorts. of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The west- Pick up a local hiking map (and any current information on (County Road 12). Trailhead is on right. facing vantage point at the top is perfect for watching the sun trail conditions) from one of the area resorts. Hiking the Trail: Hike across Larch set. Take extra care with small children on this trail and keep Hiking the Trails: The High Cliffs Trail and South Rim Trail Creek, through the burns of 2007, them under close supervision, due to the steep terrain and have spectacular views of Gunflint Lake and the Canadian 2003 and 1974 to Magnetic Rock. Along the trail, look for high cliffs. shore. Bridal Falls is a beautiful destination — just right for rock cairns that mark the trail over areas of exposed rock. a picnic. Hike through dense growth between ridges, over This 60-foot rock feature, with its strong magnetic attraction, 11. CARIBOU ROCK TRAIL lava outflows, and across the old Pee-Dee railroad bed. is a unique phenomenon of the Glacial Period. Bring your compass and test the magnetism. Pick up a trail map at one Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Hiking maps are essential. Pick one up from an area resort. of the Gunflint Lake area resorts if you want to hike past Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station or 15. BORDER ROUTE Magnetic Lake. outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Features: Scenic overlook Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. 19. CHIK-WAUK MUSEUM & Access to Border Route Trail Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station or NATURE CENTER TRAILS outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Difficulty: Difficult Features: Six hiking trails, including an ADA trail Features: Long distance hike through the BWCA Distance: 1.5 or 7 miles (round trip) and interpretive walk Difficulty: Moderate to difficult Location: Drive 28.7 miles north of Grand Marais on the Difficulty: Easy to moderate Distance: 70 miles Gunflint Trail (County Road 12). Turn right on Hungry Jack Distance: Various Lake Road (County Road 21) and travel 1.9 miles to the park- Location: Access from various points along the Gunflint Location: Drive 54.7 miles north of Grand Marais on the ing area on the right; trailhead is on the left side of the road. Trail (Caribou Rock Trail, South Lake Trail, Topper Lake Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to Moose Pond Road (County Trail, Crab Lake Trail, and Gunflint Lake Trails) Hiking the Trail: The trail is an access route to the Border Road 81). Turn right and watch for the sign for the Chik-Wauk Route Hiking Trail. Overlooks along the hike include West Hiking the Trail: The trail extends from a trailhead on the Museum & Nature Center on your right (approximately 0.4 Bearskin Lake (about three-quarters of a mile from trailhead), Gunflint Trail to the Pigeon River below South Fowl Lake. Most miles). Turn right and go to the parking area. then Moss Lake, Duncan Lake, Rose Lake and Canada. The of the trail passes through the BWCAW. It’s fairly rugged ter- Hiking the Trails: A variety of trails surround the Chik-Wauk Stairway Falls are a highlight of this hike trip. This trail is steep rain, with many rock ledges and spectacular views. Windfalls Museum and Nature Center, and more will be added. Pick up and demanding, trail conditions are challenging and there are to be expected, and it may be difficult to follow the trail. a trail map at the museum. are many protruding rocks and roots. Allow 5 - 7 hours for Campsites can be found along lakeshores. For current trail Contact: Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center a round trip hike, and bring plenty of water, snacks, raingear, conditions and maps, contact the USDA Forest Service in 218-388-9915 and bug repellent. Grand Marais. The Gunflint Trail Information Center and area

resorts also have maps available. 20. NATURE TRAIL 12. SOUTH LAKE TRAIL 16. KEKEKABIC TRAIL Features: Wildflowers Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Blueberries Self-Issued BWCAW day permit required for hiking. Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station or Ham Lake Fire ecology Overnight permit (obtained at Gunflint Ranger Station or outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Difficulty: Easy outfitter) required for overnight stay at primitive campsite. Features: Access to Border Route Trail Distance: 1.6 miles (round trip) Beaver pond and wildlife Features: Scenic ridges Location: Drive 56.0 miles north of Grand Marais on the Difficulty: Moderate Long-distance hike through the BWCAW Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to Trail’s End Campground. Distance: 8 miles (round trip) The trail begins at the canoe landing. Difficulty: Moderate Location: Drive 31.8 miles north Hiking the Trail: The trail winds up and down rocky terrain Distance: 37 miles of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail along the scenic bay which flows into the Seagull River (County Road 12). The trailhead sign Location: Drive 47.8 miles north (between Seagull and Gull Lakes). In spring and early summer, is located about .1 mile past the of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail look for Stemless Moccasin Flower (pink moccasin flower) and Rockwood Lodge sign, on the north (County Road 12). Parking and trailhead are on the left. Linnea Borealis (Twin Flower). In late July and August this is side of the Gunflint Trail. Hiking the Trail: The trail extends from the Gunflint Trail to an excellent blueberry area. Look and listen for Black-backed Hiking the Trail: Extending from Poplar to South Lake, County Road 18 on Snowbank Lake near Ely. NOTE: In the Woodpecker and several varieties of flycatchers along this trail. a portion of the trail is in the BWCAW. The trail passes near fire-affected areas, it can be difficult to locate the trail; be Partridge Lake which has a developed overnight campsite. sure to have a good trail map with you. Tall red and white pines watch over the trail in the sections Gunflint Trail Information where it passes through the old forests. 1-800-338-6932 www.gunflint-trail.com Centennial Trail SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST NORTH SHORE AREA TOFTE & GRAND MARAIS, MN Features

3.3 mile interpretive loop trail follows a historic railroad bed.

Historic mine pits and scenic views.

A free interpretive guide to the 14 stops is available at Forest Service offices or at the trailhead.

Guide, along with GPS version of trail and stops, available online.

Moderate difficulty: Uneven surface with one steep section.

The Centennial Trail is outside the BWCAW so no permit is needed. If you continue on the Kekekabic Trail, you may need a permit.

Location Canada The Centennial Trail begins from the Kekekabic Trail trailhead 40 miles north of Lake Gunflint Grand Marais off the Gunflint Trail (County 12). BWCAW From MN 61, turn north on County Road 12 Boundary Waters Canoe Area (Gunflint Trail) at Grand Wilderness Marais.

Follow Co 12 about 47 Centennial / Kekekabic miles north. Trailhead 12 Parking is located on the left side of the road shortly after you pass Gunflint Lake on the right. Grand Marais 61 An interpretive sign is 0510 located at the trailhead. Miles rior Lake Supe

5/03/2010 SAR Superior National Forest - Centennial Trail

Gunflint Lookout

Kekekabi

Description The Centennial Trail was developed to honor the Superior National Forest’s 100th anniversary in 2009. It explores one small story in the Forest’s history, that of the Port Arthur, Duluth, and Western Railroad and the ill-fated Paulsen Mine. Hikers will be able to see the original mine test pits from the 1890’s and walk the rock cuts and rock trestles created for the railroad. A large wooden trestle no longer stands in a deep gorge, but the view from the location of the trestle is still breathtaking. Trailside ‘station stops’ and a guide booklet will help you discover the history of the area. Markers as waypoints and the trail path are available in downloadable GPS format for those who want to explore the 19th century with 21st century technology. Wear sturdy footwear: the trail surface is rocky and uneven. There are no water sources, outhouses, or other facilities at the trailhead. Help preserve this area for generations to come by leaving no trace: take only pictures, leave only footprints. Remember, artifacts and historic sites are protected by federal laws making collection of artifacts or damage to sites possible felonies, so enjoy with care.

Gunflint Ranger District LaCroix RangerTofte District Ranger District Need2020 W Hwymore 61 information?Need more information? 320 NorthPO BoxHwy 2159 53 Grand Marais, MN 55604on the web at: on the web at: Cook,Tofte, MN 55723 MN 55615 218-387-1750www.fs.fed.us/r9/superior www.fs.fed.us/r9/superior 218-666-0020 Voice218-663-8060 and TTY USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer 5/03/2010 SAR On the north side of the Kekekabic Trail Centennial 4 you will see the tailings removed from the drainage spanned by the bridge. Little is known as Gunflint Lookout Trail Trail to why this was done. The company may have drained the pond so the railway could be built to the test pits. Kekekabic The first 1.2 miles of the Centennial Trail is Trail 1 also the Kekekabic Hiking Trail, a 40 mile long trail built in the mid 1930’s. Its purpose was The bridge crosses the rail bed near a unique to allow firefighters access into the more remote 5 railroad feature: one of two switchbacks on areas of the Superior National Forest. this spur. A switchback was used when the terrain forced a turn too tight for a train to negotiate. A train would pass over a switch to a short spur, This spur trail Cascade Tower then the switch was changed and the train backed 2 leads to the old up the new track. While this made tight corners Gunflint Fire Tower possible, it also limited the length of the train to site. The rock founda- the length of the spur, and made the train have to tion of a cabin and rem- run in reverse, nants of the fire tower sometimes for long are still visible. The trail distances. was re-opened during the Alpine Lake Fire of 2005 so that radio This test pit equipment could be 6 is rumored placed at the tower site Miners at shaft, Lindahl Collection to be 70 feet to improve communica- deep! At low wa- tions. The photo at right is a similar fire tower ter you can still see the wooden beams used to on the Gunflint Ranger District, Cascade Tower. shore up the pit. They appear to be in very good condition more than a hundred years after they were first set. You are now hiking on a newly built Steam drill at test pit This overlook is known as TRAMPS Over- portion of the trail above the Port Arthur, Duluth, You are now leaving the rail bed and will fol- Five test pits look (Trail Restoration and Maintenance & Western. Along the way you will come to a 8 low a newly built trail which runs along the 9 3 were opened Project Specialists). In September 2009, ex- beautiful overlook above an unnamed lake. The ridge above you. Watch for spectacular views of in this area in the smokejumpers from early 1890’s by the railroad ran along the north shore of the lake. areas burned by the 2007 Ham Lake Fire. This fire’s smoke was visible from space! the National Smoke- Gunflint Iron jumpers Association Company, whose helped build the Cen- major backer John The Centennial Trail now follows the historic tennial Trail. The Satellite photo: Ham A. Paulsen was the 7 bed of the PAD&W. Blasted rock was used to Wear a good pair of hiking boots: the overlook is named in namesake of fill in the small drainage in front of you to keep the trail’s terrain is rolling, with both up and Lake smoke plume Lindahl Collection their honor. From Paulsen Mine. grade of the rail line below a 5% slope. Behind you downhill portions. The trail has steep this vantage point, you can see the Gunflint Trail The company wanted to evaluate the purity of to the north is a rock cut which supplied material areas and skirts abandoned mine pits; and Gunflint Lake to the east as well as an excel- the iron deposits as well as explore for gold, sil- to fill a small valley near stop 4. Mules, more sure use caution especially with children. Be lent view of hundreds of downed trees laying in a ver, and nickel. Only one car load of ore was ever footed than horses, were used to pull the rock cautious when walking beside roadways. west to east direction: damage caused by the removed. Please use caution around the test pits. filled cars along rails to the valley for unloading. windstorm of July 4th, 1999. SAR 01/12/10 Beneath your feet is the highest and larg- Centennial “Everybody’s nose was glued to the windows and as the train 13 est of the ‘rock trestles’ built along the Port Arthur, Duluth, & Western. Look to the Trail slowly wound its way up and along the hillside and over an north and see a succession of beaver ponds. The

immense chasm on a trestle, out on to the level ground at the original rail bed ran between the two ponds. The ort rthur, windstorm of 1999, followed by the Ham Lake Fire p a mine, many a sigh of relief was breathed.” of 2007 were devastating events from a human duluth & standpoint. From this overlook, however, you can western rry. -Passenger account of an excursion to the Paulsen Mine, Ft. William Journal, Jan 7, 1893 see the rebirth of the forest as new growth fills in the niche created by storm and fire. station stops PAD&W bridge over Gunflint Narrows, 1911 The valley in which you are standing Once again, the trail is laid on the historic 10 was once spanned by a 500 foot long, 11 PAD&W rail bed. Turn and look west 80 foot high white pine trestle. Think back to towards the rock outcropping 500 feet away. Pic- the 1890’s ture yourself laying out the railway, trying to figure and imagine out how to get from where you are standing to the the work that outcropping. The terrain is much too steep for went into switchbacks. A log trestle was the answer. building such You have come to the end of the por- a structure. tion of the trail that follows the Much of the 14 PAD&W road bed. From here, the railroad cut work was Feel the cool and damp air? You are through the woods to another switchback along completed by 12 entering a 200 foot rock cut which now what is now the Tuscarora Road. It then returned Italian immi- You are pulling out for a harbors a microenvironment of ferns and mosses. to curve between the beaver ponds you saw earlier grants from 3.3 mile trip along the Centennial Trail. A This cut rarely sees the sun’s rays. Rock debris before heading east to the bridge at Gunflint Nar- Canada. The portion of the trail traces the historic route of from this cut was used to fill the valley at your next rows and Canada. Your route will follow the trail valuable logs the Port Arthur, Duluth & Western Railroad stop, making the ‘rock trestle’ at signpost 13 the on to the Round Lake Road, turn left, and follow may have 1890’s trestle, Lindahl Collection (PAD&W). The railway was built to access largest human constructed feature of the trail. the road to the snowmobile trail. You will eventu- been salvaged in the Paulsen Mine. As you hike, look for ally link up with the Gunflint Trail and the trail- the early 20th century after the railway was aban- station stops marked by signposts and GPS head of the Centennial Trail. Please use caution doned, but there are also reports that it burned waypoints matching the numbers in this guide. 1904 USGS Quadrangle map when hiking along roadways! in the wildfires of 1894 and 1898. If Historical sites such as the PAD&W and the you explore this Need more information? Paulsen Mine are poignant reminders of the chasm you can still on the web at: www.fs.fed.us/r9/superior struggles and accomplishments of bygone find evidence of the Gunflint Ranger District eras. They are also fragile and susceptible to holes which held 2020 W Hwy 61 looting and vandalism. Help preserve this area the mighty white Grand Marais, MN 55604 for generations to come by leaving no trace: pine supports. 218-387-1750 take only pictures, leave only footprints. Imagine a train Remember, artifacts and historic sites are passing above your USDA is an equal opportunity protected by federal laws making collection of head over a century provider and employer artifacts or damage to sites possible felonies. ago! Printed on Recycled Paper Enjoy the trail, and your trip into history. Big Pine Trail Ham Lake Trail Overlook Trail Gunflint Lodge Snowmobile Trail

South Rim Trail Banadad Artery Trail Lonely Lake Trail Gunflint Pines Resort

West End Trail Cut Across Trail Rabbit Run Trail Heston’s Lodge

Highlands Trail Aspen Alley Trail North Star Trail

Magnetic Rock Trail River Trail Warrens Road Trail

Amperage Run Trail Power Line Trail

They are part of why you come to the north woods. north the to come you why of part are They groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed

they will move on. These encounters are special moments to make the most of. most the make to moments special are encounters These on. move will they skier up gentle slopes and down gradual declines. This trail is Pisten Bulley Pisten is trail This declines. gradual down and slopes gentle up skier

tures or just observe. When they figure out who you are, or lose their curiosity, their lose or are, you who out figure they When observe. just or tures Gunflint Lodge - Gunflint Pines Resort - Heston's Lodge Heston's - Resort Pines Gunflint - Lodge Gunflint This trail connects the Warrens Road Trail and Magnetic Rock Trail. It takes the takes It Trail. Rock Magnetic and Trail Road Warrens the connects trail This

Nordic Ski Trails Ski Nordic unless you threaten them or corner them. If you see wild game, stop and take pic- take and stop game, wild see you If them. corner or them threaten you unless

1.6 km (1 mi.) More Difficult More mi.) (1 km 1.6

Marten, Rabbits, Partridge and maybe a Wolf. None of our wildlife will harm you harm will wildlife our of None Wolf. a maybe and Partridge Rabbits, Marten,

for any injuries occurring on these trails. these on occurring injuries any for

Cut Across Trail Across Cut

Throughout our trail system it is possible to see Moose, Deer, Fox, Pine Fox, Deer, Moose, see to possible is it system trail our Throughout

and you use them at your own risk. We assume no liability no assume We risk. own your at them use you and

BWCA, making it the longest tracked ski trail within the BWCA. the within trail ski tracked longest the it making BWCA, Upper Gunflint Upper

Encountering Wildlife Encountering

ular purposes. These trails are carved out of the wilderness the of out carved are trails These purposes. ular

the Central Gunflint ski system. Two-thirds of the Banadad Trail runs through the through runs Trail Banadad the of Two-thirds system. ski Gunflint Central the

We make no representation as to their fitness for your partic- your for fitness their to as representation no make We This trail serves as a connecting link between the Upper Gunflint ski system and system ski Gunflint Upper the between link connecting a as serves trail This crossings as snowmobiles move quickly and dog teams do not stop instantly. stop not do teams dog and quickly move snowmobiles as crossings

use appropriately designated trails based on how we are playing. Be alert at trail at alert Be playing. are we how on based trails designated appropriately use to More Difficult More to Gunflint Pines Resort and Heston's Country Store and Lodge. and Store Country Heston's and Resort Pines Gunflint

We are all respectful of the various winter recreational choices and we all we and choices recreational winter various the of respectful all are We 31 km (19.3 mi.) Upper Gunflint ski system to Poplar Creek intersection. Easiest intersection. Creek Poplar to system ski Gunflint Upper mi.) (19.3 km 31

maintained for the convenience of guests of Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint of guests of convenience the for maintained

Banadad Artery Trail Artery Banadad out of the woods if needed. if woods the of out

These cross country ski trails are groomed, tracked and tracked groomed, are trails ski country cross These

groomed for skiing and your only interest in them should be as an emergency way emergency an as be should them in interest only your and skiing for groomed

Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley

tions our trails cross a dog sled trail or a snowmobile trail. Those trails are not are trails Those trail. snowmobile a or trail sled dog a cross trails our tions

Many skiers view moose in this area. Warming hut is available. This trail is Pisten is trail This available. is hut Warming area. this in moose view skiers Many

The Upper Gunflint Ski Trails are restricted to ski use only. In several loca- several In only. use ski to restricted are Trails Ski Gunflint Upper The

Liability

This trail is a loop off the Highlands Trail and goes through winter moose yards. moose winter through goes and Trail Highlands the off loop a is trail This

Skiing in a Multiple-Use Area Multiple-Use a in Skiing

4.83 km (3 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (3 km 4.83

Ham Lake Trail Lake Ham

skis). This trail is Pisten Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley Pisten is trail This skis).

Lodge). All the lodges will assist in the rescuing of an injured person. injured an of rescuing the in assist will lodges the All Lodge).

one classic and one skijor lane. skijor one and classic one

skis when crossing the Gunflint Trail (for safety as well as for the sake of your of sake the for as well as safety (for Trail Gunflint the crossing when skis

Lodge (Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint Pines Resort or Heston's Country Store and Store Country Heston's or Resort Pines Gunflint Lodge, (Gunflint Lodge

hills but generally provide the skier with flat fast skiing. This trail is groomed as groomed is trail This skiing. fast flat with skier the provide generally but hills

Across Trail, Magnetic Rock Trail, River Trail and Highlands Trail. Take off your off Take Trail. Highlands and Trail River Trail, Rock Magnetic Trail, Across

3. If possible leave at least one person with the victim. Then go to the nearest the to go Then victim. the with person one least at leave possible If 3.

opportunities to see deer, moose, and the elusive Timber Wolf. There are a few a are There Wolf. Timber elusive the and moose, deer, see to opportunities

This trail follows an old summer road and is easy and fast. It connects with Cut with connects It fast. and easy is and road summer old an follows trail This

2. Keep the injured person as warm as possible. as warm as person injured the Keep 2. through frozen marshlands and is named after the power line it follows. Great follows. it line power the after named is and marshlands frozen through

1.6 km (1 mi.) Easiest mi.) (1 km 1.6

This trail runs along the South shore of Gunflint Lake. The trail takes the skier the takes trail The Lake. Gunflint of shore South the along runs trail This

1. Do not move an injured person. injured an move not Do 1.

Warrens Road Trail Road Warrens

3.25 km (2 mi.) Easiest to Difficult to Easiest mi.) (2 km 3.25

Accidents

Amperage Run Trail Run Amperage the West End and Ham Lake trails. It's Pisten Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley Pisten It's trails. Lake Ham and End West the

good feel of the area. Moose and other wildlife are often viewed. This trail connects with connects trail This viewed. often are wildlife other and Moose area. the of feel good

machined packed trail. packed machined

This trail meanders through logged areas, swamps and dense forest giving the skier a skier the giving forest dense and swamps areas, logged through meanders trail This

and connects with Warrens Road Trail and Cut Across Trail. It's a back country back a It's Trail. Across Cut and Trail Road Warrens with connects and

9.65 km (6 mi.) Easiest mi.) (6 km 9.65

a 60' high rock left from the glacial days. This trail begins on the Gunflint Trail Gunflint the on begins trail This days. glacial the from left rock high 60' a

North Star Trail Star North

This trail takes the skier deep in the woods passing a small pond, a fire burn and burn fire a pond, small a passing woods the in deep skier the takes trail This

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Natural of Department Minnesota Forest National Superior - - 8.05 km (5 mi.) More Difficult to Most Difficult Most to Difficult More mi.) (5 km 8.05 End. This trail is Pisten Bulley groomed with one classic and one skate lane. skate one and classic one with groomed Bulley Pisten is trail This End.

Magnetic Rock Trail Rock Magnetic 218-388-2243 & 1-800-338-7230 & 218-388-2243 other wildlife. This trail connects with Highlands, Aspen Alley, River Trail and West and Trail River Alley, Aspen Highlands, with connects trail This wildlife. other

Heston's Lodge Heston's - Greg and Barb Gecas Barb and Greg - Trail. Skiing is through dense forest with opportunities to view moose, deer and deer moose, view to opportunities with forest dense through is Skiing Trail.

track trail. track 218-388-4454 & 1-800-533-5814 & 218-388-4454 This trail runs along the bottom of a glacial ridge and parallels the Highland's the parallels and ridge glacial a of bottom the along runs trail This

from the Gunflint Lake Scenic Overlook. It's Pisten Bulley groomed with a double a with groomed Bulley Pisten It's Overlook. Scenic Lake Gunflint the from Gunflint Pines Resort Pines Gunflint - Bob and Shari Baker Shari and Bob -

5.63 km (3.5 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (3.5 km 5.63

climb up to start and then a good hill on the other end. The trail starts across starts trail The end. other the on hill good a then and start to up climb 218-388-2294 & 1-800-328-3325 & 218-388-2294

Rabbit Run Trail Run Rabbit

with Ham Lake Trail, Warrens Road Trail, Overlook Trail and Rabbit Run Trail. A Trail. Run Rabbit and Trail Overlook Trail, Road Warrens Trail, Lake Ham with Gunflint Lodge Gunflint - Bruce and Sue Kerfoot Sue and Bruce -

This trail runs along the top of a ridge with many scenic overlooks. It connects It overlooks. scenic many with ridge a of top the along runs trail This Heston's Lodge and Big Pine Trail. It's Pisten Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley Pisten It's Trail. Pine Big and Lodge Heston's

looks of Gunflint Lake, virgin white pines and past Lonely Lake. The trail connects with connects trail The Lake. Lonely past and pines white virgin Lake, Gunflint of looks 6.5 km (4 mi.) More Difficult to Most Difficult Most to Difficult More mi.) (4 km 6.5 of the following organizations: following the of

This trail takes skiers along a ridge on the south side of Gunflint Lake. It offers scenic over- scenic offers It Lake. Gunflint of side south the on ridge a along skiers takes trail This Highlands Trail Highlands We gratefully acknowledge the cooperation and support support and cooperation the acknowledge gratefully We

4.83 km (3 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (3 km 4.83

classic tracks, 1.5 mi Lower West End has one classic and one skate lane. skate one and classic one has End West Lower mi 1.5 tracks, classic greatest nordic skiing in the entire state. entire the in skiing nordic greatest

Lonely Lake Trail Lake Lonely

advanced skier. It is Pisten Bulley groomed, 1.5 mi Upper West End offers double offers End West Upper mi 1.5 groomed, Bulley Pisten is It skier. advanced to a skier's trek. Feel free to ask questions and enjoy over 100 km of some of the of some of km 100 over enjoy and questions ask to free Feel trek. skier's a to

trail. The trail is hilly, fast in spots and offers challenges for the intermediate to intermediate the for challenges offers and spots in fast hilly, is trail The trail. This trail is Pisten Bulley groomed with two classic lanes and one skate lane. skate one and lanes classic two with groomed Bulley Pisten is trail This these businesses that know these trails, valuable information can be learned prior learned be can information valuable trails, these know that businesses these

intersects various other ski trails. Keep a lookout for a lot of deer activity on this on activity deer of lot a for lookout a Keep trails. ski other various intersects Lake Scenic Overlook. Take off your skis when crossing the road for safety sake. safety for road the crossing when skis your off Take Overlook. Scenic Lake

Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint Pines Resort and Heston's Country Store and Lodge. From Lodge. and Store Country Heston's and Resort Pines Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint Gunflint Lodge

This trail starts at the Loon Lake Landing and crosses two county roads. It also It roads. county two crosses and Landing Lake Loon the at starts trail This Highlands trail and Rabbit Run trail. The trail can be accessed from the Gunflint the from accessed be can trail The trail. Run Rabbit and trail Highlands

Trail information is available from any of the three resorts on Gunflint Lake: Gunflint on resorts three the of any from available is information Trail 143 South Gunflint Lake Road This trail is a little hilly but connects Big Pine trail, West End trail, then connects with connects then trail, End West trail, Pine Big connects but hilly little a is trail This the trails every few days making sure everything is kept in the best shape. best the in kept is everything sure making days few every trails the 6.5 km (4 mi.) More Difficult to Most Difficult Most to Difficult More mi.) (4 km 6.5

being one with his or her environment. The staff from the three resorts are out on out are resorts three the from staff The environment. her or his with one being Grand Marais, MN 55604 West End Trail End West .8 km (.5 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (.5 km .8

single tracked, they are narrower and more remote but offer the skier a sense of sense a skier the offer but remote more and narrower are they tracked, single Overlook Trail Overlook 218-388-2294 or 1-800-328-3325

return route. This trail is back country machined packed. machined country back is trail This route. return setters. Most of the trails are double tracked for skier enjoyment. A few trails are trails few A enjoyment. skier for tracked double are trails the of Most setters.

is Pisten Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley Pisten is

and intersection with the West End Trail. The Lonely Lake Trail is a possible a is Trail Lake Lonely The Trail. End West the with intersection and

All the Upper Gunflint ski trails are groomed with gyro groomers and track and groomers gyro with groomed are trails ski Gunflint Upper the All Gunflint Pines Resort

skis when crossing the road (for safety as well as the sake of your skis). This trail This skis). your of sake the as well as safety (for road the crossing when skis trail can be started in the parking lot of Heston's Country Store and Lodge or from or Lodge and Store Country Heston's of lot parking the in started be can trail trail information. trail

River Trail, Aspen Alley, West End Trail, Shortcut and Rabbit Run. Take off your off Take Run. Rabbit and Shortcut Trail, End West Alley, Aspen Trail, River 217 South Gunflint Lake Road the north. A climb up to start and then a good hill down at the other end. The end. other the at down hill good a then and start to up climb A north. the permit easy day outings. Signage is made available to inform the skier of trails and trails of skier the inform to available made is Signage outings. day easy permit

This trail follows the power lines and parallels the county road. It connects the connects It road. county the parallels and lines power the follows trail This This trail offers beautiful overlooks of Gunflint Lake and over the Canadian hills to hills Canadian the over and Lake Gunflint of overlooks beautiful offers trail This of the three resorts on Gunflint Lake. The system is designed with many loops that loops many with designed is system The Lake. Gunflint on resorts three the of Grand Marais, MN 55604

parts of the trails for the advanced. Everyone can enjoy the trail system from any from system trail the enjoy can Everyone advanced. the for trails the of parts 9.66 km (6 mi.) More Difficult to Most Difficult Most to Difficult More mi.) (6 km 9.66 2.41 km (1.5 mi.) Easiest mi.) (1.5 km 2.41 218-388-4454 or 1-800-533-5814

skier. However, there is plenty of good skiing for beginners and some challenging some and beginners for skiing good of plenty is there However, skier. South Rim Trail Rim South Power Line Trail Line Power

Most of the Upper Gunflint nordic ski trails are suited for the intermediate the for suited are trails ski nordic Gunflint Upper the of Most

groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Heston's Lodge

sic and one skate lane. skate one and sic and once skied, never forgotten. never skied, once and

over some hills. It connects with Aspen Alley, and Rabbit Run. It's Pisten Bulley Pisten It's Run. Rabbit and Alley, Aspen with connects It hills. some over

behind Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters and is Pisten Bulley groomed with one clas- one with groomed Bulley Pisten is and Outfitters Northwoods Gunflint behind 579 South Gunflint Lake Road Lake Trail, etc. These are some of the prettiest, most varied trails in the Midwest the in trails varied most prettiest, the of some are These etc. Trail, Lake

This trail takes the skier around the bottom of the Cross River bed, around and around bed, River Cross the of bottom the around skier the takes trail This

eratvt seietwt aysgtns Tetalbgn n nsi h akn lot parking the in ends and begins trail The sightings. many with evident is activity Deer character: Big Pine, Aspen Alley, River Trail, Magnetic Rock, Rabbit Run, Lonely Run, Rabbit Rock, Magnetic Trail, River Alley, Aspen Pine, Big character: Grand Marais, MN 55604

the bottom of a north faced rock cliff and offers a pretty overlook of Gunflint Lake. Gunflint of overlook pretty a offers and cliff rock faced north a of bottom the 1.6 km (1 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (1 km 1.6

into the winter moose yards. The trail names give the skier a hint of some of their of some of hint a skier the give names trail The yards. moose winter the into 218-388-2243 or 1-800-338-7230

This trail makes a loop behind Gunflint Lodge. It goes through a basin which traverses which basin a through goes It Lodge. Gunflint behind loop a makes trail This River Trail River takes the trails through beaver valleys, up pretty scenic vistas and overlooks, and overlooks, and vistas scenic pretty up valleys, beaver through trails the takes

covered with stands of virgin white pine, spruce, aspen and balsam fir. The skier The fir. balsam and aspen spruce, pine, white virgin of stands with covered 3.25 km (2 mi.) Easiest to More Difficult More to Easiest mi.) (2 km 3.25

sake of your skis). This trail is Pisten Bulley groomed with a double track trail. track double a with groomed Bulley Pisten is trail This skis). your of sake

Big Pine Trail Pine Big Gunflint trails. The trails meander through the various landscapes of rolling hills rolling of landscapes various the through meander trails The trails. Gunflint

Rabbit Run. Take off your skis when crossing the road (for safety as well as the as well as safety (for road the crossing when skis your off Take Run. Rabbit

many can really boast of such beauty and first class grooming as the Upper the as grooming class first and beauty such of boast really can many

and through a stand of aspen trees. It connects with River Trail, Highlands and Highlands Trail, River with connects It trees. aspen of stand a through and

There are many nordic ski trail systems throughout the state. However, not However, state. the throughout systems trail ski nordic many are There

Nordic Ski Trail Descriptions Trail Ski Nordic This trail loops around and parallels the Gunflint Trail, through an open sand pit sand open an through Trail, Gunflint the parallels and around loops trail This

1.6 km (1 mi.) Easiest mi.) (1 km 1.6

Upper Gunflint Nordic Ski Trails Ski Nordic Gunflint Upper Upper Gunflint Gunflint Upper Aspen Alley Trail Alley Aspen

Snowshoe Trails

When using cross country trails, please do not snowshoe on cross country groomed areas. Stay well to the side of any groomed areas. Watch out for snowmobiles on multiple use trails, such as the North Shore State Trail. For a true wilderness experience, take a day trip or a winter camping trip into the BWCA. Chances are you will not see anyone. Gunflint Trail Magnetic Rock Trail Creek Trail Distance: 1.5 Miles Distance: 1/4 Mile Difficulty Level: Intermediate Difficulty Level: Intermediate Requires: Requires: Information: Gunflint Lodge Information: Boundary Country Trekking

This trail runs 1.5 miles (one way) to a massive Winds along the north side of Poplar Creek then rock 10 feet wide, 20 feet long, and 30 feet returns along an esker ridge about the Creek. high. The rock was deposited by glaciers and has a strong magnetic field — hold a compass up to the rock to see for yourself. Northern Light Trail BWCAW Swamp Lake Trail Distance: 1/2 Mile Distance: 2 Miles Difficulty Level: Intermediate Difficulty Level: Intermediate Requires: Requires: BWCA Day Permit Information: Boundary Country Trekking Information: Boundary Country Trekking

This half-mile trek leads into prime moose This loop trail begins at the Tim Knopp habitat and provides excellent vistas from the trailhead near the Cabin. The trail travels top of Blueberry Hill. through the BWCAW via the Swamp Lake portages. Tim Knopp Trail Distance: 2 Miles Difficulty Level: Intermediate Requires: Information: Boundary Country Trekking

Follows the Knopp Trail to the Banadad then loops back along the Banadad to the Swamp/Poplar portage.

PINCUSHION MOUNTAIN TRAILS GEORGE WASHINGTON MEMORIAL Distance: 25 km Groomed/Tracked FOREST Difficulty Level: All Skill Levels Distance: 3 km Groomed occasionally Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Difficulty Level: Beginner Information: Pincushion Mountain Bed & Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Breakfast 1-218-387-1276 Information: Gunflint District Ranger Station 1-218-387-1750 The Pincushion Mountain Trail is the first cross country ski trail system you'll pass on the Snowshoeing allowed along side XC ski Gunflint Trail, just 2 miles from Grand Marais, trails Trail Conditions Minnesota. The extensive trails, of regionally acclaimed system, offers skiers of all abilities opportunities to enjoy gentle scenic terrain, rolling hills or even steep hills. Take a break at an outstanding vista of Lake Superior from the summit of Pincushion Mountain. Snowshoeing is allowed on designated trails only and is not allowed on groomed cross country trails. Trail Conditions

CENTRAL GUNFLINT TRAILS BANADAD TRAIL Distance: 70 km Groomed/Tracked Distance: 5 Miles Difficulty Level: All Skill Levels Difficulty Level: Intermediate Requires: Trail Fee/Parking Fee Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Information: Bearskin Lodge 1-800-338- plus Parking Fee 4170; Golden Eagle Lodge 1-800-346- Information: Boundary Country Trekking 1- 2203, 800-322-8327 a good location to find moose. Five miles of designated Snowshoe Trails Snowshoeing allowed alongside XC ski trails; Snowshoe Trails Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

UPPER GUNFLINT TRAILS Distance: 100 km Groomed/Tracked Difficulty Level: All Skill Levels Requires: Trail Fee/Parking Fee Information: Gunflint Lodge 1-800-328- 3325; Gunflint Pines 1-800-533-5814; Hestons Lodge 1-800-338-7230; Moosehorn Bed & Breakfast 1-218-388- 2233

Snowshoeing allowed on sides of XC ski trails

Trail Conditions

Finland / Isabella Crosby Manitou State Park Snowshoe Country Trail System Distance: 23 Miles Distance: 10 Miles Difficulty Level: Beginner/Advanced Difficulty Level: Beginner/Advanced Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Requires: No trail pass required Information: 218-226-6365 Information: 218-365-2126 Snowshoeing/Winter Trail Hiking allowed Snowshoeing/Winter Trail Hiking allowed

Offers nice view of Lake Superior from the hills Trail Conditions and also of the cascades of Manitou River. 21 year-round campsites.

Trail Conditions Ely

North Shore TEMPERANCE RIVER STATE PARK LUTSEN TRAILS/POPLAR AND ONION Distance: 12 km Groomed/Tracked RIVERS Difficulty Level: Beginner/Advanced Distance: 45 km Groomed/Tracked Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Difficulty Level: Beginner/Intermediate; Information: Temperance River State Park Diagonal and Ski Skating 1-218-663-7474 Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Information: Lutsen/Tofte Tourism Snowshoeing/Winter Trail Hiking allowed Association 1-888-61NORTH alongside XC ski trails Snowshoeing/Winter Trail Hiking allowed Trail Conditions on Moose Trail. Do not snowshoe on groomed areas for skiing.

MASSIE/HALL TRAILS CASCADE RIVER STATE Distance: 13 km PARK/DEERYARD LAKE TRAILS Difficulty Level: Intermediate; 2.5 km Ski Distance: 64 km Skating Difficulty Level: All Skill Levels Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Information: Solbakken Resort 1-218-663- Information: Cascade River State Park 1- 7566 218-387-3053 or Cascade Lodge 1-218-387-1112 Snowshoeing/Winter Trail Hiking allowed on one designated trail Snowshoeing allowed alongside XC ski trails

Trail Conditions BALLY CREEK TRAILS Distance: 30 km Groomed/Tracked Difficulty Level: All Skill Levels; some Ski Skating Requires: MN Ski Pass Recommended Information: Bear Track Outfitting 1-218- 387-1162

Snowshoeing allowed alongside XC ski trails; Skijoring/Dog Walking allowed on unplowed section of Co. Rd. 158 plus one designated Skijor trail

Snowshoe Buyers Guide Snowshoeing in the BWCA Winter Lodging Discuss Snowshoeing in the BWCA