Category: homepage

The Boreal Forest of northeast Minnesota is renowned for its diverse flora. Among its most iconic trees is the tamarack (Larix laricina). This deciduous conifer, often called the “American larch,” is a unique and vital part of Minnesota’s natural heritage, standing out with its distinct characteristics that set it apart from other trees. “We absolutely…

The Aurora Borealis is a truly awe-inspiring sight, and observing it can be a life-changing experience. While most often seen in Arctic regions, observing the Northern Lights in other parts of the world during periods of intense solar activity is possible. This summer, a friend of this writer who lives in the south of Spain…

Visiting the Gunflint Trail is an adventure that involves self-guided activities. An exciting, self-guided thing to see and experience every fall when you visit the Gunflint area is Art Along the Lake. For ten days this fall, from Friday, September 27, through Sunday, October 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., you may visit one…

The Gunflint Trail area along the BWCAW has enchanting forests and pristine lakes. Water, in all its forms, is the lifeblood of our community. We paddle through it in the summer and snowshoe over it in winter. It sustains our economy, allowing us to reside in and explore the most extraordinary of natural landscapes. Despite…

— As we approach the official beginning of Summer, June 20th (the Summer Solstice), the often-cited Farmer’s Almanac tells us that this summer will be hotter and muggier than usual for most of the country.  The Arrowhead region of Minnesota and our beloved Gunflint Trail are not just areas of “refuge” from the worst of…

— Just last week, Steve Dawson, a testament to human resilience, and his two unwavering companions embarked on a challenging adventure he fondly calls his “revenge hike.” Despite the unpredictable weather, they persevered and covered 23 miles over three days, all without the nuisance of bugs. Two years ago, the group began a hike over…

— Exploring the BWCAW is not just a journey through hauntingly beautiful landscapes; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the iconic White Pine and the different tree species that make up our forest. Each, with its unique characteristics and role in the ecosystem, contributes to the environment that makes this wilderness area unique. It’s springtime in…

— Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters has hosted wilderness adventurers for almost 100 years on beautiful Poplar Lake at the edge of the BWCAW. Its history is inextricably bound to the history of development and recreation along the Gunflint Trail. Founded by Jennie and Paul Stoltz along with Wally Anderson in 1926, Rockwood still operates out…

“Ninety percent of wildfires in Minnesota are human-caused,” said Leanne Langenberg, MNICS’s Public Information Officer in Grand Rapids, MN. In addition to burning brush and garbage piles, careless discarding of cigarettes, sparks from lawnmowers, chainsaws, and other outdoor activities can lead to fires that burn quickly out of control.

— Low snow Spring 2024 As the winter of low snow and unseasonably warm temperatures have brought March in like a lamb, many intrepid BWCAW adventurers are thinking about an early trip. And why not? Cool temperatures, no bugs, and few fellow travelers make an early trip almost irresistible. On social media sites dedicated to…

— Solo travel is a growing trend within the tourism industry. And it’s not just for introverts.  Introverts are people who are more interested in their own thoughts and ideas. They may also be shy, reserved, and enjoy spending time alone. But extroverts can enjoy spending time alone, too.  According to surveys, one out of…