Northern Wilds

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The first summer travelers arrive on the North Shore shortly after green-up. It’s fun to watch them make their way up Hwy. 61—in compact cars with canoes atop, in RVs towing compact cars, in trucks towing fishing boats or ATVs, riding motorcycles or pedaling bicycles. Regardless their mode of transportation, everyone is wheelin’ north.

Also, some of the fun things to do in June are wheeled activities, such as the Lutsen 99er. The mountain bike race, featured in a story by Lucas Will, is rapidly becoming a premiere early summer event. Also traveling on two wheels— albeit with motorized horsepower—are motorcyclists, many of whom are making the Lake Superior Circle Tour. We interviewed a Canadian couple who will make the trip this summer and write about it on their travel blog.

Other vacationers wheel into one of our region’s many campgrounds to spend the night or perhaps a longer period of time. Managing editor Erin Altemus talked with campground operators about what those travelers can expect to find when they arrive. In another story, Erin takes us to a distant destination, Ecuador, where she went on a mountain bike adventure while visiting there last month.

Many folks wheel right up to the water and launch a boat or canoe. One of them is Gord Ellis, who takes us to one of his favorite fishing holes—the Nipigon River—which he calls “the best brook trout fishery on the planet.” If smallmouth bass are more your cup of tea, we have a story about how special regulations have led to better bass fishing in a handful of Cook County lakes. Our Fishing Hole map feature this month is Crescent Lake.

Elle Andra-Warner introduces us to a new volunteer program intended to protect decommissioned lighthouses and to provide the public an opportunity to visit them. Kelsey Roseth reports on what it takes for restaurants to feed breakfast to the hungry hordes that are wheeling their way along the Shore. And speaking of hungry, Erin Altemus visits the Hungry Hippie Farm, which hopes to open the North Shore’s first hostel.

As always, Joan Farnam shares the latest in arts happenings in NorthShore ArtScene. She also reports on the North Shore’s community theater groups and their summer offer-

ings. We have a large listing of June events, including the popular Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Pageant at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais. And don’t forget, the Classic Car Show rolls into Grand Marais this month, too. Even though winter is still a very recent memory, the longest days of summer are here. So, let’s roll! –Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt

Betty's Pies

Gooseberry

PUBLISHERS

Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt

EDITORIAL

Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com Erin Altemus, Managing Editor erin@northernwilds.com

ADVERTISING

Amber Pratt, Advertising Manager apratt@northernwilds.com

Sue O’Quinn, Sales Representative sue@northernwilds.com

Jane Shinners, Sales Representative jane@northernwilds.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com

OFFICE

Roseanne Cooley • billing@northernwildsmedia.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Elle Andra-Warner, Gord Ellis, Joan Farnam, Bryan Hansel, Rod Hasse, Kelsey Roseth, Tim McKillop, Javier Serna, Chris Gibbs, Kim Falter, Patrick Baumann, Lucas Will

Copyright 2014 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc.

Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $28 per year or $52 for 2 years. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission from the publishers. Northern Wilds Media, Inc. P.O. Box 26, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (218) 387-9475 (phone/fax)

Welcome to Golden Eagle Lodge, a family oriented, year round resort located on the historic Gunflint Trail of Northeastern Minnesota. We are on the north shores of Flour Lake surrounded by the Superior National Forest; as we are the only residents on the lake, you can look forward to the quiet and solitude offered only from the true wilderness setting. We offer modern, housekeeping cabins to ensure comfort during your stay in the North Woods.

Each season has something special to offer; excellent fishing and canoeing in Summer and nationally-renowned Nordic Cross-Country Skiing in Winter. Our 4 Seasons page will describe in detail how each

season can help shape your vacation.

Try our 9-site campground which offers a quiet and personal service; each site comes equipped with water and electric hookups. We go out of our way to ensure every aspect of your visit will convince you to come back and see us again.

We know much time, effort, and expense is invested in a vacation, and we would be honored if you considered us as your vacation destination. You won’t be disappointed!

FEATURES GUIDES DEPARTMENTS

Skillet Clubtail Dragonfly by Chris

Historic Two Harbors movie theater will reopen

TWO HARBORS—The historic Harbor Theater is making a comeback. The Two Harbors movie venue is slated to re-open early this summer, after sitting closed for most of the last 20 years.

Two Harbors resident Wade Kimball bought the building a year ago and began renovating the space for personal use. “It was in pretty tough shape on the inside,” said Kimball. “There were big chunks of plaster out of the ceiling, walls needed to be repaired, and one bathroom was completely torn out.”

While remodeling the building, Kimball said people would drop by unexpectedly and reminisce on the theater. “The stories were endless,” he said. Some locals would share memories of 13-cent movies. Others told Kimball that, as children, the elegant uniforms of the Harbor Theater employees inspired them to consider a career in the movie industry. A few individuals even recounted the 1939 fire that destroyed the building, or when the theater was rebuilt in the mid-forties.

After repeatedly hearing the emotional memories, Kimball

was slowly inspired to re-open the venue. “I think it’s what they want and need, and I am going to make sure I make it work for everyone…I’d like to see it here for another 100 years,” said Kimball.

Partnering with his 22-year-old daughter Heather, Kimball plans to open the Harbor Theater sometime this summer. He hasn’t set an official opening date, but he said the community is already getting excited. “I am expecting very heavy turnout,” he said, noting that he plans on keeping the movie prices low, at about $5 per ticket. “We want everyone to be able to afford the movie, and keep it reasonable. Really, this is for the town.”

The 150-seat venue will play second-run movies Friday and Saturday nights and a Sunday matinee. The space also will be available for rent during the week. Kimball plans on creating a website soon with show times, and he hopes to incorporate a voting system into the website to ensure moviegoers get to view their favorite films on the big screen.— Kelsey Roseth

New wayside for Beaver Bay

BEAVER BAY—A large gravel parking lot beside the Beaver River will be transformed this summer into a Hwy. 61 wayside and a trailhead for hikers and bikers. The project will provide easier access to the nearby John Beargrease gravesite and be a welcome facelift for Beaver Bay, which has emerged as a North Shore tourism hub. The new rest area will have running water and public bathrooms. Informational panels will be installed, telling the area’s history and showing Scenic Byway routes. There will be a picnic area as well. The entire facility will be accessible to all. Transportation improvements will include the installation of curb and gutter along the Lax Lake Road and the addition of a turn lane.

A followup project will improve the Hwy. 61 bridge over the Beaver River for bikers. From the rest area, travelers can walk a short distance to the Beaver River bridge, which provides an outstanding view of the river’s large waterfall. They will not, however, be able to access the river from the rest area, because the property along the river does not belong to the city of Beaver Bay. A short walk in the opposite direction will take visitors to the shops and restaurants in Beaver Bay. Costs for the roughly $1 million project will be funded with federal highway funds, the DNR’s Parks and Trails Legacy Grant Program and county state aid highway funds. The city of Beaver Bay will maintain the facility.—Shawn Perich

After sitting vacant for 20 years, the historic Harbor Theater will show movies once again.
| KELSEY ROSETH
This non-descript parking lot will soon be a much improved wayside. | SHAWN PERICH
The new wayside is adjacent to large waterfalls on the Beaver River, which can be viewed from the Hwy. 61 bridge.
| SHAWN PERICH

Couple turns homestead to hostel

GRAND MARAIS—When Kate and Jeremy Keeble went before the Cook County Board of Commissioners recently to apply for a conditional use permit for a hostel, they were met with quizzical expressions. A hostel was not something the county had dealt with before. Bunkhouses, hotels and campgrounds were more familiar. A hostel is something in between, and while hostels are common in Europe, especially for backpacker lodging, they haven’t quite taken off in the same way across the United States.

The Keebles bought the Houglum farm two years ago on County Road 14. While the original farm had been split into a number of parcels that some members of the Houglum family still own, the actual buildings were purchased by the Keebles, including a beautiful red barn with a view straight off the hillside down to Lake Superior. It is this view and this barn that make an idyllic setting for a hostel.

The Keebles’ Hungry Hippie farm is located 1 mile off the Superior Hiking Trail, so backpackers wanting to launch or end their trip at a hostel, or take a break in the middle of the trip, can stay here easily. The hostel will have a bunk room with space for 6-8 people, plus three private rooms as

well. Because there are shared bathroom facilities and a lounge area, a hostel creates more social opportunities, which is often a perk for people hiking or traveling alone, or travelers wanting to meet new people.

The Keebles came up with the name Hungry Hippie Farm and Hostel after a night playing the Hungry Hippo game with their daughter, Addie. “Kate just kind of blurted it out,” Jeremy said. And it stuck.

The Keebles already have a few hungry hippies in the way of pigs and chickens and a sweet black lab named Emma that can hold two tennis balls in her mouth at one time. They hope to create a large garden space, expand the existing apple orchard and add strawberries and raspberries. “Part of the idea is that the hostel would help us invest in a working farm,” Jeremy said.

When asked what most excited them about operating a hostel, Jeremy said, “Meeting all the people. That was my favorite part of the Appalachian Trail.” Jeremy hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2004, and staying in hostels every so often was an important part of his hiking experience.

Kate replied that she is excited about “sharing what we have with others—the homestead and the stellar view.”

The Keebles already have obtained their conditional use permit to operate the hostel, but it necessitates putting in an additional septic system for the bathroom facilities. In addition, they have work to do renovating the barn into the lodging quarters. To help fund their endeavor, they have started a Kickstarter campaign where people can donate dollars in exchange for incentives. A $20 donation, for example,

gets you a night in the hostel bunkroom once it’s open. The Kickstarter campaign will run until the end of June. You can find it by going to www.kickstarter.com and searching for “Hungry Hippie Hostel.” You can also see more about their farm at www. hungryhippiefarm.com. —Erin Altemus

The Keebles look forward to sharing their farm with others. | JEREMY KEEBLE
This red barn will be converted into the hostel with a bunkroom & private rooms. | JEREMY KEEBLE

Beekeepers want to preserve unique status

GRAND MARAIS—The winter of 2013-14 was hard on Cook County’s honeybee population. A recent survey of beekeepers done by Louise Reavis, organizer of the Cook County beekeepers group, revealed that beekeepers lost approximately 66 percent of their hives. According to the 13 beekeepers who responded to the survey, 16 out of 45 hives in Cook County survived the winter. Reavis estimates that in past years losses have been about 33 percent.

County and Thunder Bay are in relatively isolated locations (surrounded by large tracts of boreal forest), it is only when beekeepers bring infected honeybees into the area that mites spread to area hives.

Some beekeepers east of Thunder Bay have been able to remain mite-free, so Cook County beekeepers hope to replace their dead hives with these mite-free bees. Some also will be able to “split” their existing healthy hives and be self-sufficient.

“If we don’t stand up for the bees, who’s going to?” Jeanne Wright, a Grand Marais beekeeper, asked the group. “We have such an opportunity here in Cook County to raise bees organically and to educate people about their plight. If we knowingly destroy that opportunity, we lose our credibility.”

Thunder Bay beekeepers had a tough winter too, with a 50 percent loss of hives. More revealing was that 60 percent of the hives lost had varroa mites, a parasite that lives on honeybees.

Currently, Cook County’s bees are free of varroa mites as well as many of the diseases that are affecting honey bee populations worldwide such as foul-brood disease.

Until now, Cook County beekeepers have been able to obtain mite-free bees from keepers near Thunder Bay. But varroa mites are spreading through Thunder Bay hives after infected bees were brought in from elsewhere last year. Because Cook

Managing mite populations in bees is now the standard. Almost all honey bees have mites, and most beekeepers manage them with chemicals that must be applied in the spring before bees start bringing in honey. In Cook County that is a very short window. And beekeepers here don’t want to use chemicals if it can be avoided.

So each year, county beekeepers ask themselves and each other: How long can we continue to be mite and disease free? It is the consensus of the Cook County beekeepers to try to maintain their mite-free/ disease-free status, but if anyone brings in outside bees that have mites, this mite-free status will be in jeopardy.

“If we don’t stand up for the bees, who’s going to?” Jeanne Wright, a Grand Marais beekeeper, asked the group. “We have such an opportunity here in Cook County to raise bees organically and to educate people about their plight. If we knowingly destroy that opportunity, we lose our credibility.”

Mites and disease are not the only threats to honeybees, and are not the causes of this past winter’s die-offs in Cook County. The beekeepers present at the meeting thought the extreme cold to be largely responsible for their hive losses. Reavis, for example, found many dead bees within the hive body, signifying they likely couldn’t get to their food stores or simply became too cold. But Jeanne Wright saw something else in one of her hives. More specifically, she found nothing. Not one single bee remained. This is what scientists refer to as colony collapse disorder.

The beekeepers pointed to pesticides, and one group of pesticides in particular called neonicotinoids as a major culprit in colony collapse. Various studies, including a new one published in the Bulletin of Insectology, support research that links pesticides to the collapse of bee colonies and particularly in colder winters. The neonics, as they are sometimes referred to, are neurological inhibitors and cause bees to become confused, and if they fly from their hives in this state, they can die in the cold.

“I thought we’d be outside of this problem,” Wright said, “because we are outside of an agricultural area. But the pesticides are also in the flowers in the greenhouses and along the roadsides.”

Neonicotinoids have been banned for two years in Europe while further studies are conducted to gauge their affects. New York and New Jersey legislatures will both look at legislation that would ban neonics, and the city of Eugene, Ore., has banned use of neonics on city property. The Minnesota Legislature is looking at a bill that considers how these products are labeled and would prevent any neonicotinoid from being labeled as pollinator-friendly. The beekeepers recommend trying to buy plants and flowers for your garden that have not been treated with neonicotinoids.

One might wonder, with so many chal-

lenges, why bother to keep honeybees in Cook County at all? Beekeeping here is small potatoes compared to the country at large, meaning no one keeps bees for income, and most don’t even expect to get honey for themselves, much less to sell. For this year, the beekeepers will try to keep the mite-free population going. But the status of the bees will be evolving.

Lucky for the bees, they have some extremely enthusiastic beekeepers like Wright and Reavis watching them closely. Wright, who had three out of five hives survive this past winter, said “I love it [beekeeping] because it’s a window into the world you wouldn’t see otherwise. You know when the nectar is running. They’re beautiful, amazing creatures.” And, she added, “There is the hope of honey.”

If you are interested in keeping bees in Cook County or attending the beekeeper meetings, contact Louise Reavis at louise. reavis@gmail.com. For more information about honey bees see www.save-bees.org. —Erin Altemus

Louise & Dave Reavis keep bees near Hovland. They lost all their bees this winter. | LOUISE REAVIS

Fewer tags for Ontario moose hunters

THUNDER BAY—These are dark days for Northwestern Ontario’s moose herd. And that reality is hitting Ontario hunters right where it hurts. On April 16, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) finally released its moose tag quota numbers for 2014, and the news was not good for anyone.

“To ensure moose populations remain healthy and resilient, Ontario is reducing adult moose tags across the province by about 18 percent for 2014,” said a carefully worded MNR release.

“The reductions are in response to declining moose populations in northern Ontario, which were noted by provincial biologists during this winter’s annual aerial surveys. The largest tag reductions will occur in areas with the largest declines.”

The news about tags is bad in several parts of the Northwest, but Wildlife Management Unit 13, an area that surrounds the city of Thunder Bay, is especially hard hit. That unit will see gun tags reduced to 55 bulls and 70 cows. That is an 88 percent drop as compared to the previous year’s gun tag allocation of 740 bulls and 375

cows. This in a wildlife management unit widely considered to have some of the best moose habitat in Canada.

The MNR flew aerial surveys in 14 of its 30 Northwest wildlife management units this past winter, and the results were not encouraging. Moose populations were found to be stable in five, stable to decreasing in three, and decreasing in five.

Besides Thunder Bay’s unit 13, MNR says notable decreases were seen in units 5 and 8 in Dryden District, 14 in Nipigon District and 9b and 11a in Fort Frances District.

That moose have been slowly decreasing across much of Northwestern Ontario is not really news. In the Kenora area, unit 7b, once a moose factory, is now practically devoid of them and has been for a decade or so. Once moose-rich units like 6 and 5 have also seen a steady decline. These latest results show the moose herd is in crisis in significant parts of Northwestern Ontario and in portions of the Northeast as well. Oddly enough, the situation in southern Ontario seems to be going the other way. Four of

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As in Minnesota, Ontario moose numbers are declining, leading officials to reduce the number of hunting tags. | STOCK

15 southern wildlife management units were flown by MNR. Moose populations in those four southern units were seen to be stable or increasing.

Ontario’s large hunting lobby was certainly not impressed. In a tersely worded release, the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters said the tag quota cuts would mean significantly fewer moose hunting opportunities for some licensed Ontario hunters.

“We don’t believe the MNR exhausted all its management options prior to hitting moose hunters so hard,” said Mark

Ryckman, OFAH senior wildlife biologist. “Fewer moose hunting opportunities means fewer moose licenses are sold and less money is contributed to the province’s Special Purpose Account (SPA),” Ryckman added. The SPA is dedicated to the management of fish and wildlife resources. The OFAH also noted it was concerned about declining moose populations throughout northern Ontario, but said hunters are growing increasingly frustrated with the ministry’s lack of progress on its review of moose management.—Gord Ellis

DNR Considers New Regs for Sag, Seagull Walleyes

GRAND MARAIS—The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input this summer on experimental walleye regulations being considered for Saganaga, Sea Gull and Gull lakes, and the Sea Gull River. All are in Cook County, on or near the Minnesota-Ontario border. Regulations may include a 17-inch minimum size limit and a bag limit of three fish, with only one fish more than 20 inches allowed.

These regulations are being considered in response to concerns from anglers over a lack of smaller walleye in these waters, coupled with DNR assessment data showing declines in the number of walleye of all sizes present.

The minimum size limit is intended to protect younger fish from harvest, to maximize returns from natural reproduction and stocking. The lower bag limit is intended to prevent harvest of too many fish as

they grow larger than the minimum size limit. The restriction on the number of fish more than 20 inches that can be taken has been included to be consistent with statewide walleye regulations, and to prevent overharvest of the largest walleye in these waters.

Signs advising the public of this proposal will be posted at public accesses on all affected waters over the summer. Public input will be taken throughout the summer, and input meetings will be held in Grand Marais and St. Paul in late September. Notice of meeting times and places will be published prior to the meetings.

Questions and comments can be directed to the DNR fisheries office in Grand Marais at 218-387-3056, or Steve Persons, Grand Marais area fisheries supervisor, at steve.persons@state.mn.us

A decline in small walleyes in some northern Cook County lakes is why the Minnesota DNR is considering a minimum size limit and lower bag limit on these waters. | SHAWN PERICH

Ontario continues four-lane improvements

THUNDER BAY—It’s a common sight for drivers traveling between Thunder Bay and Nipigon: bulldozers carving out the hillsides along the highway that hugs Lake Superior’s North Shore.

In an effort to ease travel, improve safety and strengthen the region’s economy, work is underway to expand approximately 65 miles of Ontario’s Hwy. 11-17 into a four-lane divided corridor. From Nipigon through Thunder Bay, and beyond to Shabaqua, the highways overlap, and share a single route that is mostly two-lane.

The entire string of projects under the Province’s Northern Highways Program began in 2010. A four-laning of the Nipigon River Bridge and its approaches is one of most recent projects under construction.

Because the Nipigon River is home to a world-renowned coaster brook trout fishery, engineering and construction teams have had to wade through a series of design constraints along the way.

The last remaining stronghold for coaster brook trout is Nipigon Bay, which contains almost half of the known remaining coaster rivers and streams, according to Trout Unlimited Canada, a nonprofit organization. Found only in Lake Superior and its tributaries, coaster brook trout remain

at low numbers, prompting a demand for rehabilitation.

“[Coaster brook trout] spawn in an area just north of where the [Nipigon River] Bridge is in a place called Gapen’s Pool,” explains Doug Cooper, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s (MTO) head of planning and design in Thunder Bay.

“When we looked into replacing the existing bridge there to accommodate the four-laning, we couldn’t move very far north of the existing bridge location because we had to stay away from the pool,” he said.

The result will be Ontario’s first cable-stayed bridge, slated for completion in 2017.

“The bridge was designed to span the river without putting any piers in the water We’ve also been able to stay further away from the spawning area,” said Cooper.

The new bridge is being built in two phases, beginning with construction of its west bound lanes. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge, and once the west bound lanes are complete, traffic will be shifted to the new bridge. East bound lanes will then be constructed and the old bridge removed, said Cooper, adding

that two lanes of traffic will be maintained throughout construction.

Looking ahead, four more lane-widening projects along Hwy. 11-17 are either planned or currently underway, with expected completion dates falling between summer 2014 and 2017. Last summer, a nine-mile section just east of Thunder Bay between Mackenzie Station Rd. and Birch Beach Rd. was expanded to four lanes in an effort to better accommodate the more than 5,000 vehicles that travel between Thunder Bay and Nipigon each day.

CIRCLE TOUR DRAWS MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURERS

Get Your Motor Running

In July, Dave and Deb Bouskill will do something they have never done before--travel around Lake Superior. This spring, the adventurous Ontario couple, who operate The Planet D travel blog, learned how to ride motorcycles. They will ride two Hondas this summer and blog about their nine-day Circle Tour excursion.

“This is exciting,” says Dave. “We’ve gone around the world, but we haven’t explored Lake Superior. And it’s right in our backyard.”

While you can get into an automobile, roll up the windows, set the cruise control and watch the mileposts pass by, motorcycling, in contrast, encourages riders to stop and smell the roses. Bikers typically travel shorter distances during a day and take more breaks along the way. Because the North Shore has so many parks, small towns and points of interest, a great place to stop for a break is never more than a few miles away.

That’s why Dave and Deb intend to spend nine days on their July Circle Tour adventure. They will depart from Sioux Ste. Marie and go westward along the North Shore. They intend to stop frequently to take photos and meet the locals. They plan to spend their nights at bed and breakfasts, again to have plenty of opportunity to meet new people--something they consider essential to their travel experience.

Many of the people they meet will be featured on their blog, which you can find at ThePlanetD.com or at #ontariomotorroads. They use the blog to demonstrate how average folks, especially couples, can go on worldwide adventures. In 2008, they bicycled across Africa from Cairo, Egypt to Capetown, South Africa. This led them to quit their jobs in the film industry to pursue their passion of traveling the world. Since then, they’ve traveled full time, visiting 80 countries and all seven continents. Among other things, they’ve driven a small car from England to Mongolia. But motorcycling will add a new dimension to their travels.

“This will be a journey of discovery,” Dave said.

There are many ways to circumnavigate Lake Superior, from paddling a sea kayak to roving the highways with an RV. But motorcycling around the lake has a special appeal. Traveling bikers are a common sight during the summer months and make up a significant, but perhaps underappreciated portion of the tourism market. The latter is changing, as evidenced by the launch of the Ride Lake Superior promotional program last year.

Paul Pepe, director of Tourism Thunder Bay, helped develop the program and took up riding as a result, partly due to “the wonderful people I continue to meet through the riding community.”

“Riding, for me, is therapy, adventure, inspiration, adrenaline and stress relief all rolled up into one,” Pepe says. “When I ride, I forget about everything and focus on the moment I am riding in.”

For the last 10 or 15 years, the Circle Tour has been a destination ride for motorcyclists, says Lee Radzak, manager of Minnesota’s Split Rock Lighthouse. The lighthouse produces an annual souvenir T-shirt especially for riders. They also carry maps showing the best motorcycle driving routes.

Like everyone else, bikers are drawn to Lake Superior because it is a cool place to be. However, those traveling from more southerly climes don’t realize “cool” extends to the weather. Radzak says the prime time for motorcycling is from mid-July through mid-September. Outside that two-

month window, the weather is “iffy.”

Motorcycling has moved beyond its former outlaw reputation. Pepe says bikers won’t have any more difficulties crossing the international border than other travelers. And he reminds everyone that helmets are mandatory in Ontario. Most businesses and attractions are used to seeing bikers as well. Some locations have special parking areas for bikes.

Riders will also find diversionary excursions. Minnesota’s Hwy. 1 from the North Shore to Ely has scenery, sweeping curves and the International Wolf Center. The Gunflint Trail, running 60 miles from Grand Marais to Saganaga Lake, brings you to the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Pepe says the road through Sleeping Giant Provincial Park “will keep a permanent grin on your face.”

RIDERS’ WEBSITES AND INFO

Specific information for riders is available through the Ride Lake Superior website, RideLakeSuperior. wordpress.com. On the Minnesota Tourism website, ExploreMinnesota.com, you can find a map of motorcycle tour routes in northeastern Minnesota called Ride the Arrowhead. You can also contact motorcycle dealerships in Duluth and Thunder Bay.

Motocyclists from across the United States enjoy touring the Lake Superior region. | LEE RADZAK

I barely heard the ceremonial shotgun blast, but I knew we had started as the throng of mountain bikers started inching forward on Ski Hill Road. Perched atop my mountain bike with Lake Superior shining in front of me, we rolled out behind a control vehicle for the paved 2-mile decent down to Highway 61. With 400 riders toggling their brakes, the smell of burning rubber briefly overcame the aromatic North Shore morning air just before they cut us loose at the bottom. The race was on.

It was 2012, the second year of the Lutsen 99er mountain bike race. The namesake distance was 99 miles, and though I was competing in the second distance option—the 39er—we were all one pack leaving the start line. That is until the 4-mile mark, where every racer turned back uphill on the Caribou Trail for a long, steady climb in low gear to a crest of the Sawtooth Mountain Range.

By the time my sweat blew into the breeze nearing Caribou Lake, I still had 31 miles to go. My quads already delivered a marathon-like sting when the gravel took over. At this point, the 99-mile racers split away, charging off toward Devil Track Lake. Though the two courses would

connect again for a few miles before the finish, I’d likely have a beer in my hand when I saw them next.

I gripped tight as we neared Pancore Lake Road’s double track, escorted by a wall of pines and littered with sharp rock. We were in the meat of the race, a part of the course that sees as many wolves and moose as it does human feet or wheels.

When I stopped to lend a tool to a friend with a flat, my body didn’t object to the brief rest. I surged through the aid station on the Sawbill Trail to the cheers of race supporters. But barely out of sight of the crowd and feeling the encouragement drain away, I instantly regretted not stopping for an electrolyte tablet and quick PB & J.

Just as I settled into the up and down flow on the Honeymoon Trail, thinking I wouldn’t see another spectator until I crawled across the finish line, I spotted a pair of occupied lawn chairs. At the end of a driveway in the middle of the boreal forest, the waves and the sound of a cowbell hit the spot. Despite tiring and slowing, I found myself smiling amid the scenic northwoods.

Barker Lake Road tightened things up to where passing—or being passed—meant

focusing on details. Things like deep pockets of water, tree limbs or thick grass on the fringe could disrupt you in a disastrous way. I crept my way up to the bridge that crosses the Poplar River at just the point where the river leaves behind the placid, meandering backwaters and drops into a flurry of boulder laced rapids all the way down the hill until it flows into the Big Lake.

We transitioned from a wide, rolling racecourse into challenging, mountainous single track traversing the Lutsen Mountain ski area.

Minutes later, my right calf cramped and stiffened like a peg leg. I managed two more pumps on the pedal and then my left one followed suit. With my wheels in the dirt path, my bike came to a stop on the uphill trail and I tipped over into the soft grass with my feet still locked into the clips on my pedals. I had a moment of “who saw that?” rush through me and then the fear of oncoming riders took over. Quickly, I contorted my body to unclip my feet and yanked myself up. After a pull from my water bottle, I started pushing my bike in Frankenstein fashion. My calves screamed, quivering and pulsing uncontrollably.

The 99er trail is part road, part trail, and part mud. | ROD HASSE
The micro-niner is a fun way for children to participate in the 99er weekend. | ROD HASSE

I reached the high point after only a few riders had scrambled by, re-saddled and slowly started to will my legs for just a few more miles. “Come on, come on!” I yelled at myself, shushing momentarily as I approached and passed a race photographer.

The fast, sandy run down Moose Mountain was glorious. At the bottom, after again crossing the Poplar River, came the final climb of the day. I rode out my momentum and dismounted, urging in front of the other up a grueling dirt road toward the finish line.

With sweat and mud coating my body, I approached a bend and heard the joyous sounds of music and knew the end was near. In my lowest gear, I struggled back aboard my pedals and rolled past the crowd swarming on the bridge above me.

I crossed the finish line of my first ever mountain bike race so slowly it almost didn’t feel like a race at all. And then I felt my body. The 99er advertises “lots of beauty plus a little beast.” It’s like they took the words right out of my mouth

Building New Trails

In addition to hosting a growing national event— the Lutsen 99er—Cook County boasts two developing single track mountain bike systems: Britton Peak and Pincushion Mountain.

According to the area’s primary trail builder—he also happens to be the 99er race director—Adam Harju, both sections have a high fun-factor while being somewhat different. The aim is to eventually have approximately 20 miles of trail at both locations plus a connector trail to Lutsen from Britton Peak.

Britton Peak is 3 miles up the Sawbill Trail from Tofte and currently offers 5 miles of trail in three stacked loops. Moving from one loop to another, the trails progress in difficulty from novice to advanced with boardwalks, some boulders and plenty of “insloped” turns that leave the rider feeling the flow. You won’t want to stop after just one lap.

An additional 2 miles of trail will be added this coming season, the first of what will be a 7-mile loop. It has been designed as an intermediate trail with a big boardwalk section as well as many flow features to enhance the riding experience, says Harju.

Pincushion Mountain Area is 2.5 miles up the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais. Currently 8 miles of generally more rugged trail exist here due to exposed bedrock. Leaving the parking lot on an “out and back” trail connects you to the base loop, a 2.5mile trail called “Fluvial” off which other loops spur. Options for riders are many here, ranging in difficulty from intermediate to advanced.

The new section being built this season will be another intermediate loop, offering a complete lap from the parking area overlooking Grand Marais and looking down along the shore at the Sawtooth range

For more information, see the Superior Cycling Association’s website or visit Sawtooth Outfitters (Tofte) or the Superior North Outdoor Center (Grand Marais).

Building new trail necessitates trial runs.
| ADAM HARJU
Riders get down and dirty long before they reach the finish line. | ROD HASSE

Community theater thriving on the north Shore

Community theater on the North Shore is alive and well.

Actors from Duluth to Thunder Bay are stepping up to perform for their communities. Whether it’s a farce, a musical or a drama, the talent is out there. Directors, costumers, choreographers, musicians, set designers and builders as well as countless volunteers all make this possible.

And so does audience enthusiasm.

One of the oldest community theaters in the state, the Duluth Playhouse, celebrates its 100th anniversary this summer with the blockbuster musical “Les Miserables.”

“The support, the participation we’ve had over the years is leading to our huge production,” said Christine Gradl-Seitz, executive and artistic di-

rector of the Playhouse. “It’s such a landmark for an arts organization to be in existence for 100 years.”

The Playhouse is collaborating with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and the Minnesota Ballet, and the musical will be presented at the DECC. “We’ve never come together on a project before. It is really exciting,” Gradl-Seitz said.

The 38-member cast started rehearsals in early May, which includes two professionals from New York City who have roots in Duluth–Sarah Killough and Shad Olsen. Dorothy Danner, who has been working in the arts for 50 years, will direct, Gradl-Seitz said. She also is coming from New York. The rest of the cast is drawn from talented and experienced local and regional actors. Robert Gardener, artistic director at the Minnesota Ballet, will be the choreographer.

“Les Miserables” will be performed July 16-19. For tickets www.ticketmaster.com.

The Duluth Playhouse also has a very active youth program. For more information, see www.duluthplayhouse.org

There’s plenty of theater at the other end of Hwy. 61, too.

Thunder Bay boasts the Magnus Theatre, which was established in 1971. By 1977, it had become the only professional theatre company between Winnipeg and Sudbury, and it continues to put on a number of shows during the season, which runs from September through May.

Summer theatre in Thunder Bay offers a variety of shows, including the popular melodramas at Chippewa Park put on by the Rob MacLeod’s Capitol Players. This year the play is

The Grand Marais Playhouse in Grand Marais has been mounting plays for 40 years. Pictured above is one of the plays produced in 1980 - “Hold Me.” The cast included Virginia Danfelt, Brian Duchien, Stan Hedstrom, Joan Lavine, Ann Mershon, Tara Hystad, Ted Mershon. | VIRGINA DANFELT.
The Grand Marais Playhouse mounted “The Beaux Strategem” two summers ago. The cast included Sarah Warren [LEFT], Sarah O’Phelan [IN BACK] and Jackson Nickolay. | SUBMITTED PHOTO

“Bloodthirsty Black Fly,” said Colin Stewart, co-founder and co-owner of the theatre company. The melodrama is a “crazy silliness” that reprises two popular characters, Emily Appleseed and hero Sterling Amethyst who work to foil Bertold Blackfly’s nefarious plot. There’s music, there’s melodrama, there’s lots of fun, he said. “The audiences love it.”

The Capital Players have been around since 2004, Stewart said. “It started out as a group of players who did medieval dinner theatre for a man named Rob MacLeod. He died of a heart attack the following January so we picked up the ball and carried it,” he said.

“That troupe was a foundation and we started doing murder mystery theatre in a local restaurant. Then we branched out into the Grand Portage Casino. It was the first time a group from Thunder Bay crossed the border. We did quite a few musicals and one other comedy.”

The audience wasn’t as good as expected–“We probably cut into their gambling time”–but the experience helped establish the company, Stewart said.

The Capital Players continue doing dinner theatre and play for corporations and convention entertainment. They also have developed a 10-minute play festival for local playwrights in early spring. “It’s really taken off,” he said.

They’ve also revived Thunder Bay’s melodrama tradition. “Moonlight Melodrama was the original company,” he said. “It was a summer tradition up here. A few other companies tried to do it before we did. We’ve got such a following now, we can’t not do it. This will be our sixth year out there.” “Bloodthirsty Black Fly” will be performed at Chippewa Park throughout July with performances at 7 p.m. (EST) Thursdays and 4 p.m. Sundays.

Stewart added that the original Moonlight Melodrama group will reunite Aug.

22-23 and put on the Northern Lights Feast at the Lakehead University Outpost. It will be a dinner theater variety show. For more info, visit Rob MacLeod’s Capital Players on Facebook.

There are other active theater groups in Thunder Bay as well who will have performances set for this summer.

New Noise Productions will present “Cherry Docs” by David Gow, directed by Michael Sobota and Andrew Paulsen in August. The Canadian play is set in Toronto and is about a young neo-Nazi skinhead charged with murder and a Jewish lawyer who has decided to defend him. Times and dates to be announced. Stay tuned.

Thunder Bay also boasts an active children’s theater, which includes performances as well as a variety of summer classes for children.

Called Paramount Live!, the nonprofit

youth theater company, presents “Shreck: The Musical” in June with performances at 7:30 p.m. (EST) June 5 & June 7, 10 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. June 6.

The youth theater company will also present Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland July 18-Aug. 16. Paramount Live! is located at 24 Court St. For more information, call 807-285-3324.

Both Lake County and Cook County have active theater groups.

Lake Superior Community Theatre, under the direction of Paul Deaner, and based in Silver Bay, puts on one blockbuster each spring. This year, they performed “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Two Harbors High School auditorium. Past productions, including “Death of a Salesman,” “Grease,” and “Little Shop of Horrors,” to name a few, were performed at the Silver Bay High School auditorium.

The Grand Marais Playhouse boasts a 44year history of producing plays in Grand Marais.

“Grand Marais is theater-savvy. They really like theater here,” said Sue Hennessy, artistic director of the Playhouse.

The Playhouse has always been a strong organization and keeps developing, she said. In past years, the Playhouse has mounted seven productions a season, but it is downscaling somewhat. “We kind of forget we’re a small town,” she said. “That we could put on seven shows a year is extraordinary. If we can still do four plays a year–that’s still really good for a town our size.”

A survey was taken of theater-goers earlier this year, she said. “People want to do more gritty stuff– more dramas, experimental–good, meaty theater. The off season will allow us to do that and not be too concerned about ticket sales.”

Great summer theater is the key to ticket sales, she said. “In the summer, we have well over 1,500 to 2,000 in July and August. For winter plays, we’re happy if we have 300-500 for eight performances.”

Repertory, where two shows rotate every night, is especially popular for summer visitors too, she said.

“It encourages people who are here for the weekend to see two plays.”

This year the Playhouse will mount “Nunsense,” a musical, and “Nana’s Naughty Nickers.”

“Nunsense” is a very popular musical for community theaters and the comedy, “Nana’s Naughty Nickers” is “weepingly funny,” Hennessy said.

The plays run Thursdays through Sundays July 17 through Aug. 10 with 7 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturday and a 2 p.m. performance Sunday.

The Playhouse, like other community theaters up and down Hwy. 61, holds theater workshops to encourage and train local talent.

“We going to starting acting classes this fall and a directing class,” she said. “It will give them acting tools and get director training,” she said.

And, as most theater buffs would put it, “If you support the Playhouse, it’s important to go to every show,” she said. “That’s the best way to do it.”

The Rob McLeod Players will produce a melodrama at Chippewa Park this summer. The production two years ago included, from left, Colin Stewart, Lauren Payette, Lawrence Badanai, Beverley GravelleMacLeod, Don McMahon, Nicole Anthony, Steven Gothard, Janis “Swanny” Swanson is seated on the ground. | SUBMITTED PHOTO
Jendaya, right, and Callie, during Paramount Live’s production of “Beauty and the Beast.” |ANNISSEA HOPKINS
The Duluth Playhouse will celebrate its 100th anniversary with “Les Miserables” this summer.

NorthShore ArtScene

June is an exciting month of the year as artists bring new work to galleries across the region for everyone to enjoy.

It’s the start of the summer festival season, too, and there are lots of great art events, music and more. Here’s what we have to look forward to.

The Grand Marais Art Colony and the Johnson Heritage Post both have on-going exhibits this month.

The Joyce Gow Retrospective at the Heritage Post continues through June 15. Gow was a well-known watercolorist from Two Harbors. The Heritage Post is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and from 1-4 p.m. Sunday and Monday.

The Instructor Show in the Founders Hall at the Grand Marais Art Colony continues through June 11. The exhibit includes a wide variety of media—sculpture, paintings, fiber art, pottery, fused glass and more, crafted by the Art Colony’s instructors. The Art Colony is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Arts and Cultural Heritage Arrowhead Arts Awards will be presented in two locations this year. The Maddie Simons Award for advocacy in the arts will be awarded to John Faith at the Backus Community Center in International Falls from 6-8 p.m. May 30. Anishinaabe singer/ songwriter Elizabeth Jaakola will receive the George Morrison Award for her significant contribution to the arts in the Arrowhead region at Fond du Lac Tribal Community College in Cloquet from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, May 31. The public is invited to both events. The Arrowhead Regional Arts Council presents the awards.

Internationally acclaimed woodturner Robin Wood will give a talk at North House Folk School at 7 p.m. Monday, June 2. Wood, who is British, is known throughout the world for spoon carving, bowl turning, Viking shipbuilding in Norway and building tea houses in Japan using traditional tools and techniques. His presentation includes stories, photos and work from his travels. Free. All invited.

The Grand Marais Art Colony will open the Warren MacKenzie Pottery Exhibit with the screening of a documentary about MacKenzie’s life by Mark Lambert from 5-7 p.m., June 6. “Warren MacKenzie–A Potter’s Hands” is a 45-minute documentary that showcases the artistic process of the man who has often been called the father of the Minnesota pottery tradition. The video will be screened at the opening reception. Refreshments will be served. The

exhibit of MacKenzie’s pottery will continue at the Art Colony through June 29.

June 6 is also the opening day at the Cross River Heritage Center in Schroeder. The event will be celebrated with a party from 6:30-8:30 p.m. All invited. The major exhibit this year features reproductions of paintings by Eastman Johnson, on loan from the St. Louis County Historical Society. The Heritage Center will also feature a fiber art show with work by Polly Erickson, Phyllis Miron, Lavona Czaplicki, Nancy Hanson, Gayle Light and Orlene Fisher and Mary Jane Huggins

On June 14, the Schroeder Area Historical Society will hold its annual meeting and a feast in the Schroeder Town Hall, 124 Kramer Road. Grand Portage tribal member Billy Blackwell will speak. A freewill donation will be accepted at the door.

The Classic Car Show, featuring cars, trucks and motorcycles, will be held in downtown Grand Marais Saturday, June 7. The band, Oversize Load, will play in

featuring beadpaintings

“Digitizing the Collection.”

Harbor Park during the show. The awards ceremony and a barbecue will be held at the American Legion following the event. Cook County’s Most Wanted will perform.

The Waterfront Gallery, 732 First Ave. in Two Harbors, continues the “Voyageur Artists Annual Spring Exhibit” through June 7. Artists include John Anderson, Elsie Cook, Shelley Getten, Joyce Gow (In Memoriam), Sandi Pillsbury Gredzens, Helen Hartley, Linda Hoffman, Jeff Leighton, Marlene Miller, Michelle Ronning, Juanita Truax and Rose Kadera Vastila.

In late June, the gallery will open a solo show by popular Duluth pastel artist Lisa Stauffer. The exhibit will be up through August. Stay tuned for details.

In Thunder Bay, George Raab’s intaglio exhibit at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, “In the Woods,” continues through June 15. “John Hartman: A View from Collins,” works from the gallery’s permanent collection is also on view until June 15 as is

Gregory Randall, author of “The Last Ferryman” will speak at a Writer’s Salon at Drury Lane Books at 5 p.m. June 7.

The Grand Marais Public Library will host Ice Box Radio Theatre in an original drama about life in the Northwoods at 6 p.m. June 13. Free. All invited.

On June 14, Grand Marais poet Ralph Latham will discuss his poetry book, “At Home with Lake Superior” at a Writer’s Salon, also at 5 p.m. All invited.

In Thunder Bay, the Baggage Building Arts Center at Prince Arthur’s Landing, will hold its second annual Waterfront Sale with work by 20 local professional artists.

Beadpainter Jo Wood and painter Don Lessard will open a show at the Johnson Heritage Post with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Friday, June 20. The exhibit will continue through July 20. Many of Wood’s intricate beaded pieces are from her series “The Many Layered Meanings of Home.”

That weekend is also weekend of the

“The Trapper’s Daughter & The Close Reach,” woodblock print by Rick Allan, is on exhibit at Sivertson Gallery
An exhibit
by Jo Wood [TOP] and paintings by Don Lessard [BELOW] opens at the Johnson Heritage Post June 20.

Solstice and North House Folk School’s Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Pageant. The weekend begins with a wooden boat display, a small boat regatta and a family contra dance with Over the Waterfall on Friday. On Saturday, the public is invited to the Lake Superior Chowder Chowdown at noon. The Summer Solstice Pageant starts at 8 p.m.

Meanwhile Sivertson Gallery will start its Solstice Party at 2 p.m. Saturday with a coffee tasting with Josh Lindstrom of Fika Coffee. Guests artists are Rick Allan and Marian Lansky, who will introduce a new Trapper’s Daughter print. The reception, which is open to the public, is from 5-7 p.m.

The Woodland Chamber Music Workshop at Surfside Resort will hold a Gala Concert Sunday, June 22 at the resort. The faculty this year includes Mina Fisher, a former member of the Minnesota Orchestra, Sam Black, Josh Aerie, Betty Braunstein and Laurie Bastian

In other art news:

Summer studio demonstrations at the Grand Marais Art Colony will be held throughout the summer at 10 a.m. each Friday. The schedule for the next month includes: Glass demo, May 30, June 6 & June 13; Printmaking demo, June 20, Painting demo with Neil Sherman June 27. The demonstrations are free and open to the public.

Betsy Bowen’s latest book, “Plant a Pocket of Prairie” has been released and she has copies of it at her gallery, as well as themed prints of her artwork in the book. She also has new card designs as well as her 2015 calendar.The gallery is also featuring work by Ron Piercy (sculpture), Ruth Nakalembe (paper-bead jewelry) and Fritz Lehmberg (pottery).

Great Gifts has just received new prints by watercolorist Jackie Kotlarek as well as cards by Anna Hess and John Peyton. Birchbark Books & Gifts is open for the season with a great selection of the latest novels, children’s literature and regional books.

“Lily,” a pastel by Lisa Stauffer, is on exhibit at the Instructor Show at the

Last Chance Gallery has new jewelry by Kerri Norman and Jeff Gray. Painter Sandi Pillsbury-Gredzens is a new artist with the gallery, too.

The Landing at Devil Track Resort will hold Happy Hour shows from 5-6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays through Fridays this summer. Musicians on tap in June include Gary Croft, Gordon Thorne, Don Bauer, Pete Kavanaugh, Briand Morrison and Al Hedstrom. See www.deviltrackresort.com for dates.

Tara Austin is exhibiting her work at the Crooked Spoon.

Lake Superior Trading Post has received copies of the new travel cookbook, ‘Lake Superior Flavors” by James Norton and Becca Dilley.

Ojibwe beadworker Marcie McIntire will be selling at the Cook County Farm & Craft Market this year, and has new paintings and prints at her studio in Grand Portage, Ningii-Ozhitoomin, “We Made it Ourselves,” 103 Store Road on the reservation. Kevin Belmore, Conrad Bobiwash and Will

Have you always lived on the North Shore?

I grew up in Thunder Bay, I spent a number of years traveling to the West Coast and San Francisco, came back to Thunder Bay in 1983. Eventually I bought the property and house and studio in Rossport where I built a two-chambered wood-fired kiln. I’ve been firing for 12 years with wood.

Wilson as showing work there.

The Blue Moose is featuring new artists this year, including two new jewelry lines–bracelets and necklaces from Blue Mohawk Studio in Michigan and Dreaming Forest Jewelry by Tashia Hart of Duluth. The shop also has handblown glass from Kitras Art Glass of Fergus, Ontario.

The Garage has new photos and photo cards by Nace Hagemann, pottery by Carol Miller as well as wooden tables crafted by Jim Milanovich. The art supplies section in Threads is now open and features paints, brushes as well as paper and journals. Special orders and suggestions are welcomed.

Carah Thomas is working on a solo CD which will include her original songs. Al Oikari is recording for her, Kari Wrich is doing the CD art design. Thomas said she hopes to have it out by mid-summer. It will be dedicated to her brother, Eric, who died last year.

Jim Ringquist has his wildlife silk screen series on Etsy. His photographs can be viewed at www.jamesringquist.com.

What projects are you currently working on?

I am doing more hand-building of late – making really large platters, 20-inch-by-20-inch platters and spending more time with the surface.

Over the winter, I caught up on most of the studio work I need for the summer. Frees me up to do some work that I typically don’t do when things get busy. The summer season is when I make my living. So it’s a nice block of time to explore new ideas and different takes on what I do.

What about your art continues to attract and fascinate you?

It’s such a wide field, and there are a lot of different traditions--look at Islamic ceramics, European medieval pots, Native American pots, Japanese pots. For a few years I was involved in the Teabowl Festival in Korea. I got invited to go, and bring work and take part in this festival. It was just really great to see the real thing, to experience the culture and the setting for the pots I’ve always really admired. The Noboragama two-chamber kiln I built in Rossport came from Korea.

Where can we see your work?

The Island Bay Pottery in Rossport through October. I also have work at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery Gift Shop and the True North Community Co-op in Thunder Bay. You can reach me at 807-824-2409.

A video about potter Warren Mackenzie will be screened at the Grand Marais Art Colony June 6. An exhibit of his pottery will continue through June 29.
Art Colony.

Chik-Wauk Exhibits Butterflies and Moths

May 24-October 19

Not sure what a skipper is? Chances are, one of these little insects has fluttered by you on a lazy Gunflint Trail day without you even noticing. This year, hone your butterfly, moth, and skipper identification skills by visiting Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center’s temporary exhibit: “Butterflies, Skippers, and Moths of the Gunflint Trail.”

Gunflint Trail Historical Society temporary exhibit chair Betty Hemstad has worked with Youngstown State University entomology professor emeritus David MacLean to prepare this year’s exhibit. The exhibit features beautiful specimens from David’s collection and an in-depth look at the Gunflint Trail’s members of the Lepidoptera order of insects. This exhibit will be on display every day for the summer season. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center is located 55 miles up the Gunflint Trail at 28 Moose Pond Drive. The museum is open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., every day. More information is available at 218388-9915 or www.chikwauk.com

Boreal Birding and Northern Landscapes Festival

May 30-June 1

Learn more about the birds, wildflowers, and geology of the northern landscape. A variety of courses and public programs will focus on northern Minnesota geology, flora and fauna. Guided hikes and film screenings round out the weekend at North House Folk School. Check out www.northhouse.org for more info.

Grand Marais Classic Car Show

June 7

Cars, trucks and motorcycles will line up on Wisconsin Street in the heart of the town before 11 a.m. Viewing is free to the public, so come vote for your favorite car or motorcycle from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Live music by the rock band Oversize Load in Harbor Park during the car show. Awards presentation and BBQ will follow at the American Legion.

Have a classic car, truck or motorcycle you’d like to show off? Day of registration is $30 to be in the show and includes two tickets to the BBQ and Trophy presentation.

You don’t have to own a classic car to come and enjoy these beautiful vehicles.

Check out Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center’s “Butterflies, Skippers, and Moths of the Gunflint Trail” exhibit this summer. | NANCY ULLRICH

June 7

Classic Car Show, Grand Marais

June 20-22

Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival, Grand Marais

June 28 & 29

Lutsen 99er Bike Races, Lutsen Mountains

• June 28: 99er, 39er & 19er Races

• June 29: Junior, Mini & Micro Races

July 4

4th of July Celebrations

• Grand Marais Parade & Fireworks

• Tofte Town Parade, Festival & Fireworks

• Grand Portage Fireworks

July 4 & 5

Hovland Arts Festival

July 12 & 13

Grand Marais Arts Festival

July 25 & 26

North Shore Dragon Boat Festival, Grand Marais

July 31, August 1-3

Fisherman’s Picnic, Grand Marais

August 7-10

Grand Portage National Monument Rendezvous Days

August 8-10

Pow-Wow, The Traditional Gathering, Grand Portage

Superior Hiking Trail Guided Hikes

June

7

Both hikes meet at 10 a.m. at the Cook Co. Rd. 1 trailhead parking lot. At Hwy. 61 milepost 78.8, turn left on Cook Co. Rd. 1 (Cramer Rd) and go 3.6 miles to parking lot on right.

Each hike is led by a member of the Superior Hiking Trail Association and most include a naturalist. Hikers share rides to shuttle to the starting point of the hike and help bring people back to their cars at the end.

Bring your own beverage and a lunch or snack to eat along the Trail. Be prepared for any type of weather and for insects. Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Dogs are not allowed on hikes.

Long Hike

Temperance River State Park to Cook Co. Rd. 1. 8 miles. Hike along the beautiful Temperance and Cross Rivers for several miles with many climbs and descents. The trail then comes to marshy Boney’s Meadow area and then climbs to Tower Overlook for one last view.

Short Hike

Cook Co. Rd. 1 to Dyers Creek Campsite and back. 2.2 miles. This out-and-back hike has an abundance of wildflowers as it winds through mixed conifers toward the confluence of the Two Island River and Dyer’s Creek.

Stubby the Elephant

June 10

A Climb Theatre and a Grand Marais Public Library presentation, Stubby the Elephant is adapted from Rudyard Kipling’s ‘The Elephant Child’ and created especially for children age 3-8 years old. Come to the library at 1 p.m. and enjoy this free interactive play and the activity session that follows. Your children and grandchildren will experience live theatre and build literacy and reading readiness skills.

North Shore Landowners Workshop

June 13

On Friday, June 13, 12:30-4 pm, the North Shore Forest Collaborative presents, “The 3rd Annual North Shore Landowners Workshop” at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland, MN. Topics include: What to do about dying birch; how to make a plan for managing your land; where to get help planting trees or controlling invasive plants; and where to borrow equipment to plant trees or control invasive plants.

Join the North Shore Forest Collaborative for an educational and fun workshop designed specifically for private landowners on the North Shore. This event is free and open to everyone. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.sugarloafnorthshore.org for complete agenda and to register or call 218-525-0001

Icebox Radio Theater at Grand Marais Library

June 13

See an historical and modern program about radio, internet broadcasting and the art of storytelling at the Grand Marais Public Library at 6:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Travel through time as the Icebox Radio Theater starts their program with a 1930s and 40s style drama from the golden age of radio. From the music to the sound affects, learn how radio dramas were produced while enjoying a segment from “Sergeant Luxo & his Fateful Husky, Prince”.

Then learn about the opportunities available in the modern world of internet based audio programming. Performances will be streamed live over the internet at libraries with wireless services or recorded as podcasts to be posted later. Learn about internet radio, podcasts and how you can record your own programs to share online.

And if watching and listening isn’t enough for you, audience members can become cast and crew in the creation of another segment of the Sergeant Luxo series.

The North Shore Health Care Foundation will host a community forum on June 14 about creating a Health Care Directive. Left to right panel members are Dr. Milan Schmidt, Rev. Mark Ditmanson, Kay Grindland, Care Partners director, and Jeanette Lindgren, RN. | COURTESY NSHCF

Honoring Choices, Completing Your Health Care Directive

June

The North Shore Health Care Foundation is presenting a free community forum at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. about the importance of creating a Health Care Directive. This document helps you receive the health care you wish and it also makes things easier for your family and physician in the event you become incapacitated.

At the forum, participants will be given a copy of the Honoring Choices® Health Care Directive. There will be a panel of professionals who will give insights concerning their area of expertise.

Panel members included will be Ruthanne Hedstrom Voss, attorney at the Mathison Law Office; Dr. Milan Schmidt,

JUNE EVENTS

Since Andrew Hedstrom first began sawing lumber in 1914, the Hedstrom Lumber Company has been a mainstay in Cook County. We are especially thankful to the many people in the community who have worked for our company over the years. We are asking everyone in the community to join us in July for our 100th anniversary celebration.

14

physician with Sawtooth Mountain Clinic; Jeannette Lindgren, RN, Care Coordinator, Care Partners of Cook County; Hilja Iverson, social worker at Cook County North Shore Hospital & Care Center; and Father Seamus Walsh, Pastor, St. John’s Catholic Church.

A time will be designated for breaking down into small groups so participants can pinpoint their area of interest, ask questions or gain feedback. Refreshments will be served.

There is no registration required, but for further information, call the North Shore Health Care office at 387-9076 or e-mail: nshcf@boreal.org.

Saturdays in June 7, 14, 21, 28 • 11 AM e Mu n Man. Stories for young children.

Saturday June 7 • 5 PM Writer’s Salon with author Gregory Randall reading and discussing The Last Ferryman: a Novel

Thursday June 12 • 5 PM Full Moon Reading featuring Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux. Outside on the lakeshore.

Saturday, June 14 • 5 PM Writer’s Salon with Ralph Latham reading and discussing his poetry, At Home with Lake Superior

Wednesday June 25 • 6:30 PM Women’s Book Group. Read The Book of Killowen by Erin Hart and join the discussion.

Summer Hours

Flutter up the Gunflint Trail

to Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center to learn about Butterflies, Skippers, and Moths of the Gunflint Trail. This year only, the museum’s seasonal exhibit features beautiful butterfly specimens and in-depth look at Gunflint Trail’s members of the Lepidoptera order of insects. Exhibit runs through October 19.

Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center is located 55 miles up the Gunflint Trail. Open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m through October 19.

Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center 28 Moose Pond Drive,Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-388-9915

info@chikwauk.com · www.chikwauk.com

Lutsen 99er Bike Races

June 28-29

Serious bikers will travel through the rugged terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains and boreal forest. Feeling rugged and tough? This 99-mile course (39- and 19-mile options also offered) takes advantage of the scenery and topography of Minnesota’s North Shore.

The race starts at Lutsen Ski Resort, in Minnesota’s Sawtooth Mountains overlooking majestic Lake Superior, and begins a Category 3 climb. Once over the ridgeline, the course takes advantage of the glacially sculpted terrain, rolling hills, and numerous lakes and streams at the southern range of the Boreal Forest.

A kids race (ages 5 to 12) will also be held on the morning of June 29. Bring the entire family and make the Lutsen 99er a family affair. www.lutsen99er.com

Joyce Gow − Retrospective Exhibit May 9-June 15

Feels Like Home

Beadwork by Jo Wood and Paintings by Don Lessard

June 20 - July 20

Opening Reception June 20, 5 - 7 p.m.

Hours: Sun-Mon 1-4 pm,Wed-Sat 10 am-4 pm, Closed Tues · 115 W. Wisconsin St. · 218-387-2314 www.johnsonheritagepost.org

Honoring Choices

All are welcome and encouraged to come to this free event.

A panel of professionals: doctor, social worker, clergy, lawyer, and a Care Partners representative will be on hand to guide us through the process of filling out a Health Care Directive. A copy of the ‘Honoring Choices Health Care Directive’ will be provided.

A refreshment break will be followed by small focus groups. Choose one or several of interest to you. For more information: call 218-387-9076 or visit www. NorthShoreHealthCareFoundation.org

Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery
On the Harbor, Grand Marais, MN
The micro, mini and junior niner races are held June 29 as part of the 99er weekend in Lutsen. | ROD HASSE

The North House Folk School’s Wooden Boat display is a highlight of the Wooden Boat show and takes place over the summer solstice weekend. | STOCK

Wooden Boat Show & Summer Solstice Festival

June 20-22

The North House Folk School’s biggest celebration of the year. Workshops and full-weekend course offerings offer many hands-on opportunities. Be inspired by the stories of boat builders, sailors and travelers. Check out the wooden boat display and boats-to-tools auction. If that’s not enough, there is the Lake Superior Chowder Experience, Steam Bent brunch, Solstice Pageant and the North House members annual meeting. www.northhouse.org

Split Rock Lighthouse Open House

June 14

Enjoy the beauty and history of Minnesota’s North Shore during an open house at Split Rock Lighthouse and State Park. Admission is FREE to both the Lighthouse and the State Park on this day only. Tour the light station, keeper’s house and fog signal building. Stop by the Visitor Center to see exhibits on the North Shore’s tourism and commercial fishing industries, and view the new film about how Split Rock Lighthouse came to be.

The North Shore Dish Restaurants Say Breakfast Prep ‘Intense’

Spring marks a new beginning for businesses on the North Shore. Once the weather along Lake Superior becomes predictably warm, establishments expect an extreme increase in business from both locals and tourists who are anxious to take advantage of the north’s short summers. Restaurants in particular are forced to quickly adjust nearly every aspect of their operations: hiring additional staff, developing new menu items and submitting increasingly large food orders to their vendors.

“It’s chaos,” said Sue Benz, manager of the Vanilla Bean Café, speaking excitedly about the establishment’s atmosphere in the summer. “It’s absolutely insane. We’ll have people lined up out the door. Insane, crazy,

just wall-to-wall people,” said Benz. Since its conception 15 years ago, word-of-mouth advertising has made the Two Harbors restaurant an essential breakfast stop for tourists traveling up Hwy 61. Whether it’s the welcoming staff, quirky, home-cooked meals or perhaps the perky, bright-red walls that draw in diners, once June begins the restaurant seats nearly 1,000 people a day in its 62-seat space.

“It’s a huge change… It’s like night and day,” said Benz. Six people staff the restaurant year-round, but Benz hires an additional 19 people in the summer to meet the demand. Fortunately for the Vanilla Bean, it’s usually the same staff. “The kids keep coming back,” said Benz. “They start as a dishwasher and we’ve got them all the way through college…when they’re done with the school year they come here.”

For the summer season, many restaurants develop fresh, unique menu items, a process that takes months of preparation. “We try to go with everybody. We have gluten-free items, vegan items, vegetarian items, but we try to do fun stuff, like our cranberry wild rice French toast,” said Benz, admitting it can be challenging creating distinctive items. However, the Vanilla Bean ensures guests are satisfied by keeping fan favorites on the menu, like the Thunder Bay Oven-Baked Omelet (a thick, fluffy omelet stuffed with juicy chunks of ham, large mushroom slices and cheddar-jack cheese) or its award-winning caramel pecan bread pudding (a dense, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon bread pudding laced with caramel and pecans, slathered with a burnt-sugar caramel sauce).

herring. That’s a drastic difference from the offseason orders. In the winter, Benz only purchases about 1,100 eggs and 30 pounds of bacon per week.

To support the wide-ranging menu, the restaurant purchases an immense amount of food. Each week, the Vanilla Bean’s vendors deliver, on average, more than 6,400 eggs, 105 pounds of bacon and 90 pounds of

About 80 miles further up the North Shore Scenic Drive, the Blue Water Café in downtown Grand Marais also sees a surge in sales once summer starts. “It’s intense,” said Dan Riddle, who has worked at the restaurant since the 80s, but has owned the establishment with his wife Melodee for the past nine years. Speaking about the startling change of pace, Riddle said, “People keep coming in and you have to stay on top of

your game, keep focused and keep everybody on track.”

The lakeside restaurant, recognizable by its bright, baby blue exterior, is known as “The Meeting Place in Grand Marais.” The Blue Water has a traditional breakfast-joint atmosphere with a local flair, like the painted map of Lake Superior on the wall or the other décor proudly showcasing the lake’s shipping industry. The restaurant is wellknown for excellent service; the staff can make tourists instantly feel like locals. Most important, it has a strong reputation for its straight-forward comfort food. “We’ve got

The Vanilla Bean Cafe’s Chef Jim Rahko checks the ticket on an oven-baked omelet. | KELSEY ROSETH

These fresh ingredients will be sauteed before being added to the oven-baked omelets. | KELSEY ROSETH

a little variety of everything: a nice variety of omelets that are unique, some I’ve never seen in any other restaurant, toast, eggs, gluten-free items. It’s all exploratory for us,” said Riddle, adding that the diner regularly pushes boundaries to engage the customer’s palate, like exploring food fads.

In the winter, the Blue Water gets about 100 guests a day. In the summer, hosts often seat 100 diners an hour in its 68-seat space. And to deal with the busy season, Riddle has to hire an additional 25 people to help the 10 year-round employees deal with the boost in business. He said, “It’s a lot of physical and mental wear and tear. We take people off line after six to seven hours, but sometimes they work 10 to 12 hours. Stress just keeps coming at you.”

Some of the Blue Water’s summer hires are students who take part in an international exchange program.

Riddle said his biggest seasonal challenge

SurfSide Resort on Lake Superior, Tofte, MN 218-663-6877

Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea Daily 8 am - 3 pm

Cellars Wine Tasting

4 wines paired with 4 Small Plates Wed. June 18th, 5 pm - 7 pm Reservations 218-663-6877

www.surfsideonsuperior.com

is the hours spent training new staff. “The eggs are the hardest thing for me to teach them how to cook. People are with me for over a year before they get it under control and know how to cook their eggs right every time… It’s insane how many ways people like to have their eggs,” said Riddle. To accommodate the wide variety of egg orders, each week the Blue Water typically receives more than 4,300 eggs from vendors and up to 360 pounds of bacon.

All summer, employees at North Shore restaurants work extremely hard to ensure diners receive hot, fresh and delicious breakfasts. But their labor isn’t over once summer ends. It leads straight into the northland’s next tourist season, fall, when the bright, beautiful foliage attracts thousands of visitors from across the nation. In the words of both Sue Benz and Dan Riddle, the busy season on the North Shore is simply “insane.”

Inside the Vanilla Bean Cafe. | KELSEY ROSETH

Best Steak

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd Harbor House Grille 3rd Moguls Best Fish

1st Angry Trout Cafe’

2nd Dockside Fish Market 3rd Ledge Rock Grille

1st Sven and Ole’s

2nd Sydney’s 3rd My Sister’s Place

1st Cascade

2nd The Pie Place 3rd South of the Border/Bluewater Cafe’ (Tied) Wine

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd Ledge Rock Grille/Gunflint Tavern (Tied) 3rd Lutsen Resort

Northern Wilds readers know where to satisfy a hungry appetite. They’ve voted for their favorite places to eat within our coverage area in our 2014 Reader’s Choice Restaurant Awards. The winners listed below. We’d like to thank all of our readers who participated in the contest and the restaurants who promoted the contest to their customers.

Venue

Use of Regional Ingredients

Cafe’

1st Pie Place

2nd Beth’s Fudge 3rd Lola’s Sweet Life and Sydney’s (Tied)

Beer Selection

1st Gunflint Tavern

2nd Papa Charlie’s 3rd Fitger’s

Northwoods Character

1st Trail Center

2nd My Sister’s Place 3rd Cascade

Kid-Friendly Menu

1st My Sister’s Place

2nd Bluewater Cafe’ 3rd Sven and Ole’s

Greens & Beans (aka Vegetarian Friendly)

1st Cascade

2nd Angry Trout 3rd Cook County Whole Foods Co op

Artistic Flare by the Chef

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd New Scenic Cafe 3rd Harbor House Grille Server

1st Cheryl at Pie Place

2nd Sue at Trail Center/Jackie at Harbor House (Tied) 3rd Carol at the Gunflint Tavern

Worth the Drive

1st Trail Center

2nd Naniboujou 3rd Crooked Spoon

Two Harbors

Here Comes the Sun

The sun is finally here! It has been a long winter, but it is finally time to go out and soak up the sun. This drives us to those sunscreen shelves looking for just the right protection from our sun’s glorious rays. But what is the right sunscreen for you? When protection from skin cancer and premature aging are at issue, it is important to take note of these three areas: UVA and UVB protection, SPF claims and water resistance.

UVA & UVB rays:

There are two kinds of solar rays emanating from the sun that affect your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays make up 95 percent of all light that reaches the Earth’s surface. They pass through clouds and glass at any time of year, and penetrate deep into the skin causing suntan, not sunburn. They also generate free radicals causing premature aging conditions such as wrinkles, leathery skin and odd pigmentations. UVA rays are responsible for skin cancers like melanoma. UVB rays do not reach the Earth in significant quantities. They only penetrate the outer layer of skin, resulting in sunburn. These rays are the primary cause of basal and squamous cell carcinomas as well as melanoma.

Currently the U.S. and Canada do not require their sunscreens to offer UVA protection, only UVB. But some sunscreens do offer both. In January 2013, the FDA required all sunscreen manufacturers to substantiate their claims about UVA protection through testing. The words “Broad Spectrum” must now be stated on the package if a product is to claim protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. This is only a measure of how well a sunscreen protects you from sunburn, which is only protection from UVB rays. The idea behind SPF is this: If your skin would normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun, an SPF 15 will ideally allow you to stay in the sun without burning for 150 minutes (15 times longer). This is a rough estimate as skin type, intensity of sunlight and amount of sunscreen are all factors that need to be considered.

Dermatologists recommend a sunscreen with an SPF between 15 and 30. The FDA no longer permits a product to claim that it prevents cancer or premature aging if it isn’t at least an SPF 15. The FDA also recommends, but does not require, SPF to cap at 50 because the level of protection only increases slightly after this number. Remember an SPF 100 does not protect you twice as well! Here is a way of looking at it:

SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of UVB rays

SPF 30 blocks 97 percent of UVB rays

SPF 50 blocks 98 percent of UVB rays

An SPF 30 only gives 4 percent more protection than an SPF 15.

Since no sunscreen is 100 percent impervious to moisture, the no longer allows a product to claim itself “waterproof” or “sweat proof” without proper testing. Sunscreens on the U.S. market can now only claim “Water Resistant (40 minutes)” or “Water Resistant (80 minutes)” after conducting this third-party test: The appropriate amount of sunscreen is applied to a person’s arm, then is submerged in Jacuzzi-like conditions for 40 or 80 minutes in intervals of 10 minutes in then 10 minutes out. After this, the SPF levels are measured. If the amount of sunscreen remaining on the arm still protects at the SPF listed for the product, it is allowed the water resistant claim.

So the next time you are on the hunt for your summer sunscreen, remember these tips:

Look for the words “Broad Spectrum.” A broad spectrum sunscreen will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays.

An SPF 30 will not protect you twice as much as an SPF15! Choose your SPF based on your skin type and intensity of sun you will be enjoying. Also, keep in mind the amount you are applying. For the best

protection the proper amount is 1 ounce (about a shot glass full) for all exposed areas applied every two hours. Applying half this amount will only give you the square root of the SPF mentioned on the bottle, so if you are using an SPF 30 and you only apply half the designated amount, you are only getting the protection of an SPF 5.5.

Look for the “Water Resistant (40 minutes)” or “Water Resistant (80 minutes)” labeling on your sunscreen, and note this means that after 40 (or 80) minutes the SPF will start to decline. It is always recommended that you reapply after swimming, sweating or towel drying.

Not all sunscreens are alike. Some are made naturally and some are made of harmful chemicals. It’s important to educate yourself about the ingredients that make up your sunscreen. A great resource is the Environmental Working Group website at www.ewg.org. They list the safest sunscreens on the market, but you can also enter your favorite sunscreen and see how it rates.

Northern Wilds Calendar of Events

Now - June 15

Joyce Gow Exhibit Johnson Heritage Post Grand Marais

Now - Oct. 19

Butterflies, Skipper and Moth Exhibit Chikwauk Museum, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

May 29, Thursday

 Tapper Takeover w/ Third Street

Brewing Co. Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 6-10 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

 Joe Paulik Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

May 30, Friday

 Joe Paulik Band Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 9 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

Movie Night in the Park Marina Park Thunder Bay

May 30-June 1

Boreal Birding and Northern Landscapes Festival North House Folk School www.northhouse.org

May 31, Saturday

Mining Day Marina Park Thunder Bay

 Rich Mattson & the Northstars Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 1, Sunday

Spring on the Farm at Fort William Historical Park Thunder Bay 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.fwhp.ca

Birding for Spring Migrants Nature Walk at Chik-Wauk Gunflint Trail 7 a.m.

 Rich Mattson & the Northstars Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 2, Monday

Adventures in Traditional Woodworking with Robin Wood North House Folk School Grand Marais 7 p.m. www.robin-wood. co.uk/wood-craft-blog/

June 3, Tuesday

DIY Bug Spray Class Cook County Whole Foods Co-op Grand Marais 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration required. www.cookcounty.coop

Minnesota Deer Hunters Association Sportsmen’s Banquet American Legion Grand Marais 5 p.m.

June 4, Wednesday

An Evening with Chris Hadfield The Community Auditorium, Thunder Bay 7:30 p.m. (EST) www.tbca.com

June 5, Thursday

 Pete K Solo Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 6, Friday

Warren MacKenzie Pottery Exhibit

Opening Reception & Documentary Screening 5-7 p.m. Grand Marais Art Colony www.grandmaraisartcolony.org

Cross River Heritage Center Opening Party Schroeder 6:30-8:30 p.m. www.crossriverheritage.org

 Gone Already Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 6-29

Warren MacKenzie Pottery Exhibit Grand Marais Art Colony www.grandmaraisartcolony.org

June 7, Saturday

National Trails Day Hike w/Superior Hiking Trail Association Cook Co. Rd. 1 trailhead parking lot 10 a.m. www.shta.org

Grand Marais Classic Car Show

Downtown Grand Marais. Music by Oversize Load 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Friends, Food and Fine Writing

Gathering Discuss “A Year in the Village of Eternity.” Cook County Whole Foods Co-op Grand Marais 12-2 p.m. www.cookcounty.coop

Hollow Rock Resort Open House Grand Portage 12-4 p.m. www.hollowrockresort.com

Writer’s Salon w/ Gregory Randle discussing The Last Ferryman: a Novel Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais 5 p.m. www.drurylanebooks.com

 Cook County’s Most Wanted After Party for the Classic Car Show

American Legion Grand Marais 8 p.m.

 Gone Already Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 8, Sunday

 Timmy Haus Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 9, Monday

Gunflint Trail Historical Society

Membership Meeting Guest speaker presents Gunflint Trail tales and history. Schaap Community Center adjacent to Fire Hall #1. 1:30 p.m.

June 10, Tuesday

Stubby the Elephant Grand Marais Public Library 1 p.m. www.grandmaraislibrary.org

June 12, Thursday

Full Moon Reading featuring Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux . Drury Lane Books outside on the lakeshore. 5 p.m. www.drurylanebooks.com

 Rich Mattson & Germaine Gemberling Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 13, Friday

3rd Annual North Shore Landowners

Workshop Wolf Ridge ELC Finland

12:30-4 p.m.

 Pete K Solo Gun Flint Tavern

Grand Marais 9 p.m.

www.gunflinttavern.com

Icebox Radio Theater at the Grand Marais Public Library 6 p.m.

 Portage American Legion Grand Marais 6-8 p.m.

June 14, Saturday

Honoring Choices: Completing Your Health Care Directive. Arrowhead Center for the Arts Grand Marais 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. www.northshorehealthcarefoundation.org

Vernal Pools hands-on investigative workshop. Sugarloaf Cove Schroeder 10 a.m. www.sugarloafnorthshore.org

Writer’s Salon w/ Ralph Latham reading and discussing his poetry, At Home with Lake Superior Drury Lane Books Grand Marais 5 p.m. www.drurylanebooks.com

Schroeder Area Historical Society Annual Meeting and Feast at Schroeder Town Hall with speaker Bill Blackwell 5 p.m. www.crossriverheritage.org

 Pete K Solo Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 9 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

 Cherry Dirt Cascade Lodge Restaurant and Pub 7:30 p.m. www.cascadelodgemn.com

June 15, Sunday

Father’s Day

 Cook County’s Most WantedMusic by the Lake The Landing at Devil Track Resort 5 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

 Joe & Jessie Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 18, Wednesday

Cellars Wine Tasting 5-7 p.m. Waves of Superior Cafe, Tofte. reservations 218-663-6877

June 19, Thursday

Clara’s Big Ride The Community Auditorium, Thunder Bay 6:30 p.m. (EST) www.tbca.com

 Gordon Thorne Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 20-July 20

Jo Wood, Beadwork, and Don Lessard, Paintings, Opening Reception, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. June 20, Exhibit Johnson Heritage Post Grand Marais

June 20-22

Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival North House Folk School Grand Marais www.northhouse.org

June 21, Saturday

The Mystery of Mushrooms Sugarloaf Cove Schroeder 10 a.m. www.sugarloafnorthshore.org

Sivertson Solstice Party Grand Marais 5-7 p.m. Held before the Summer Solstice Pageant with music and food.

 Mary Bue Cascade Lodge Restaurant and Pub 7:30 p.m. www.cascadelodgemn.com

 Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concert Grand Marais area 7 p.m.

 Robi Meyerson -Music by the Fireplace Lutsen Resort 7 p.m. www.lutsenresort.com

Summer Solstice Pageant North House Folk School 8 p.m. www.northhouse.com

 Maintenance Free Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 22, Sunday

North Shore Health Care Foundation

Annual BBQ at Gunflint Lodge 4 p.m. www.northshorehealthcarefoundation.org

 Canadian Celtic Celebration The Community Auditorium, Thunder Bay 7:30 p.m. (EST) www.tbca.com

 Diet Folk Trio Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

 Pete K Group Music by the Lake Devil Track Resort 5 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

June 24-June 29

Woodland Chamber Music Workshop Surfside Resort Tofte www.woodlandchambermusic.org

June 25, Wednesday

Women's Book Group 6:30 pm Drury Lane Books

June 26, Thursday

“What’s on your Plate” film at What’s Upstairs Theatre at Betsy Bowen Studio Grand Marais 7 p.m.

 Timmy Haus Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 7:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 27, Friday

Invasive Blitz Workshop Sugarloaf Cove Interpretive Center Schroeder 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www. sugarloafnorthshore.org

Fishcake Dinner Benefit for the Cook County Historical Society St. John’s Catholic Church Grand Marais 5:30-7:30 p.m. www.cookcountyhistory.org

Mondays

Monday Kids’ Days at ChikWauk Museum Gunflint Trail Children under 18 visit free on Mondays starting June 23. www.chikwauk.com

 Timmy Haus Happy Hour Show (Mondays starting June 16) The Landing at Devil Track Resort 5-6 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

 Live Entertainment Bluefin Grille 9-11 p.m. 218-663-6200

Tuesdays

 Tuesday Nite Live in Ely (starting June 10) Musicians and demonstrations at various downtown locations in Ely each Tuesday. www.ely.org

Wednesdays

Stories with Harriet and Bill

(Wednesdays starting June 18)

Chik-Wauk Museum 11 a.m.4 p.m. www.chikwauk.com

 Happy Hour Live Music

(Wednesdays starting June 18) The Landing at Devil Track Resort 5-6 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

 Open Mic Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 5-9 p.m. www. gunflinttavern.com

Lutsen 99er Training Ride Lutsen 5:30 p.m.

 Music on the Mountain at Moguls Lutsen 6-8 p.m.

 Live Entertainment Bluefin Grille 9-11 p.m. 218-663-6200

 Tin Can Gin Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

June 28-29

Lutsen 99er Bike Race (39, 19-mile and kid’s race options) Lutsen www.lutsen99er.com

June 28, Saturday

Tending the Trees Meet at Trail’s End Campground boat landing. Gunflint Trail 10 a.m.

 Tin Can Gin Gun Flint Tavern Grand Marais 8:30 p.m. www.gunflinttavern.com

 Maria Nickolay Music by the Fireplace Lutsen Resort 7 p.m. www.lutsenresort.com

Thursdays

 Joe Paulik Music on the Beach, Lutsen Resort 6:30-8:30 p.m.

 Happy Hour Live Music (Thursdays starting June 19) The Landing at Devil Track Resort 5-6 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

Fridays

 Eric Frost Cascade Lodge Restaurant and Pub 7:30 p.m. www.cascadelodgemn.com

 Broken Spokes play Lutsen 99er post-race party. Papa Charlie’s 9 p.m.

June 29, Sunday

 Woodland Chamber Music Concert Surfside Tofte 11 a.m.-1 p.m. www. woodlandchambermusic.com Welcome Summer Open House at Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center 1 p.m. www.chikwauk.com

 Timmy Haus and Friends -Music by the Lake Devil Track Resort Grand Marais 5-8 p.m. www.deviltrackresort.com

or call 218-387-9475. To have your events and entertainment listed email events@northernwilds.com or call 218-387-9475. Calendar space is limited, advertised events have priority.

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www.trailcenterlodge.com

The Nipigon River: Brook Trout Heaven Northern Trails

The Nipigon River is the planet’s greatest brook trout fishery. This is no idle boast, but undisputed fact. The world record brookie (also called speckled trout) was caught here, on a fly, in July 1915. That enormous fish weighed 14 pounds, 8 ounces, and the record has stood the test of the ages. In the early 1900s, anglers traveled from all over the globe to fish for the Nipigon’s giant brook trout. Nearly one hundred years later, they still do.

So why do brookies grow so big in the Nipigon system? It comes down to a perfect mix of genetics, food and environment. For whatever reason, nature has seen fit to make the Nipigon brook trout among the fastest growing, and largest, strain of its species anywhere. This has made the Nipigon brook trout highly desirable when stocking lakes and rivers in other parts of Ontario and the United States. These Nipigon fish are also incredibly beautiful, with blood red fins, an orange belly and a flank dappled with scarlet dots and purple halos. They are truly the royal bloodline of brookies.

Yet, the 30-mile long Nipigon River is also uniquely suited to growing big trout. The great river is Lake Superior’s largest tributary and drains Lake Nipigon. This enormous lake is ice cold, and remains nearly untouched by the pollution and development that’s driven brook trout away from so many other places. It, too, is a haven for wild trout.

Perhaps the most important factor in the growth and size of the Nipigon brookies is the amount of food available. The trout gorge year-round on baitfish such as sculpin, stickleback and smelt. In June, the first hatches of aquatic insects start to show, beginning with stoneflies, then mayfly and caddis. At times the river is alive with insects and the boils of football-shaped trout taking them off the surface.

Despite its legendary status, the Nipigon River has seen some change over the years, most of it to the detriment of its trout stock. In the early 1900s, anglers had miles of rapids and pools to fish, most of them brimming with trout. But three massive hydroelectric dams have drowned most of the historic white water. The river is certainly not the untamed animal it once was. That being said, brook trout have adapted to the changes and still thrive here. It also remains a truly spectacular place to fish.

The Nipigon River is challenging for anglers, due to its size and depth. However, with a few adjustments, just about any an-

gler can potentially connect with the trout of a lifetime. The river is large enough for a boat, and many anglers prefer to fish from one. Usually the boat driver holds the craft in the current while the angler at the bow casts. In some parts of the river, you can drop anchor and work jigs, spoons or flies along the edges of the river and behind rocks where trout will hold in the current.

The Nipigon is not the friendliest river to wade, due to its depth and speed, but in certain sections, it can be done. The lower portion of the Nipigon, below Alexander’s dam, has several areas perfect for the angler who prefers to wade. Some of the very largest trout are caught by anglers who throw dry flies from shore. Brook trout can hold in remarkably shallow water, especially when they are feeding on terrestrial insects.

The gear needed for the Nipigon is a little heavier compared to what you would normally use for small stream brook trout. Many trout anglers who travel from other parts of Canada to fish brook trout are under-gunned. The water is deep and swift, and the fish can grow to impressive size. A 7-or 8-foot long medium action rod with a reel loaded with 8-pound monofilament test line will usually do the job on this big water. Fly anglers will want to use an 8-weight rod. A floating, weight-forward line is perfect for dry fly fishing. Weighted streamer flies also account for many big trout. Bring a selection of flies, and don’t be afraid to go big.

Anglers looking for a guide, or a place to stay, or both, should check out the historic Quebec Lodge, located near the town of

Red Rock. The rustic lodge has fine food, nice rooms and knowledgeable guides.

One last thing: The size and bag regulations on the Nipigon River, as well as Lake Nipigon and Lake Superior, are conservative. No angler may kill a Nipigon brookie under 22 inches. The bag limit on the brook trout here is one fish. This regulation protects the spawning-aged brook trout and has helped them rebound after being nearly wiped out by over-fishing in the late 1970s and early 1980s. These days, most trout anglers release all their fish. A trophy Nipigon brook trout is one of Ontario’s most precious natural resources.

Gord Ellis with a trophy-sized Nipigon River brook trout. | GORD ELLIS

Find your own bait

The tiny bobber twitched once, tilted to the side and slowly slid beneath the waves. I begin the slow count to 10.

Turning the handle on the old open face, I hear the squeak of the gears, “eight, nine, 10!” My mind floods with excitement as I set the hook. I feel the weight of the fish and the dance is on. My partner resists for a second, does a few nice moves herself and then races for the deep water. The steady thump and pull on the line and the scream of the drag tells me it is going to be a good one, a keeper for sure. Suddenly there is an almost audible “pop,” the line goes slack and the walleye is gone. I reel in my line to check my leech; it’s gone too. I tell myself I must get more bait.

Fish have a good variety of things they will eat. But, to quote a trout fisherman,, “You have to match the hatch” if you consistently want to catch fish to eat. You need to use the bait they are looking for.

The thought comes to many: Why is bait so expensive? The answer is simple: We fishermen or “anglers” are often busy or too lazy to go get our own bait. In the fishing merit badge for Boy Scouts, I can remember having to find my own bait. Now as one of the counselors for that merit badge, we say it is still easy. Turn over a few logs for grubs or worms. In the spring grab some tadpoles, or better yet, get in the water and look for crawfish.

Trapping your own bait can be a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise in the process..

MINNOWS

Check to see what kind of minnows are in the body of water you plan to trap. You can trap the same kind of minnows in many area ponds and water areas. You will need a license, and make certain it is legal to trap that area. Follow all local trespassing laws. The sad way to find out you are wrong is when the DNR officer is visiting you. Also be sure you can use the minnows you trap where you plan to fish.

Chub minnows, or rainbow minnows,

are among the best for large predator fish. If you are going after panfish early in the year, you will need to find “crappie”-sized minnows for a better presentation.

Find your bait trapping spot, mark and bait your trap, tie it off to shore, and place it in the water. Come back the next day to see how you are doing. If you have a few, you may be set well. Otherwise, you may have to adjust your depth of the trap and where you place it. Once you match the travel patterns of your minnows, check to see you have the ability to store them. You can do serious harm to minnow populations if you take too many and they die because of poor storage conditions.

GRUBS

Growing up with three brothers in the Duluth and Gunflint Trail areas, we always could find some bugs and grubs to fish with. The easiest method is the “bear method.” Slowly turn over a few logs or break open an old stump, and you can get a few big thick white grubs that bass love. You can also find grubs in the firewood pile. Look for the holes where the pine borers have crawled into the decaying log. Chip it apart and pull out the grubs.

NIGHT CRAWLERS

The night after a soaking rain is perfect for picking crawlers. You will need a semibright flashlight, preferably with a green or red bulb. Wear an old pair of jeans and old sneakers. Night crawlers have eight bunches of nerves on their bellies called dorso ganglion. They may not “think” but they can sense most any vibrations of movement, so you will need to move slowly.

Slowly crawl in the grass along the edge of brush areas or in open yards. You will see the shine of the worm’s body stretched out in the grass, doing what worms do at night. Without shining the light directly on them, quickly plug the hole in the dirt with your thumb where the worm is stretched out and keep it from zipping back in the hole. This is something they can do remarkably fast! Slowly grasp the body of the worm and with very little force pull the worm out

of the hole. If you hurry or force it, they will break. Busted worms will die, stink and may kill the rest of the bait.

LEECHES

The perfect northwoods, BWCAW bait. They can live in stagnant water, last for days if kept cool, and fish love them. Leeches can be easily trapped with a tin can, string, some raw chicken or beef liver and a sense of adventure.

Leech ponds have the greatest percentage of leeches if there is little or no moving water in the pond. Look for good depth and plenty of aquatic signs of life.

A leech pond is often a very busy place if you keep your eyes open. Look for spots along the edge where the water drops off fairly quickly with a small shelf of soil and roots along the edge. Drill a hole in the top part of a cleaned out soup or large fruit can. Tie a long string onto the can to anchor it to the shore. Place a good-sized chunk of raw beef liver in the bottom of the can and

crimp the top together leaving an opening about one-third of an inch wide. Set the can into the pond so it is slightly tilted upward. This will keep the bait in the can.

Be sure to tie the can trap off to a stick so it does not sink out of sight. Plus this will help you find the can when you return. Each time you check the can you should find leeches. They are active at night looking for food and will get caught in your trap.

Leeches are currently about $20 a pound retail, so picking your own can save you a lot of money.

Before you take that next cast, enjoy the adventure of picking your own bait.

A good leech pond can yield plenty of bait. | PATRICK BAUMANN

A TALE OF TWO LAKES

What’s Wrong with Protecting Smallmouth Bass?

Last June, my friend Jim Boyd took me to one of his favorite lakes not far from his home in Grand Marais. He thought we might entice some smallmouth bass to rise to our popping bugs. The lake is hardly secret, but will remain nameless because it is Jim’s fishing hole.

Having heard stories of hidden boulder fields that wreck outboard motors, I’d never fished there. The lake is among a handful in Cook County where all bass greater than 12 inches must be released. You are allowed to keep one bass over 20 inches. Many accessible lakes are overrun with runt bass that rarely reach 12 inches. The regulation is intended to protect bigger bass and thus provide better fishing. After a night on the water, I can tell you this: The regulation works.

We headed across the lake in Jim’s 14-foot boat. In a wide channel between an island and the shore, he shouted over the engine noise that we were suddenly in four feet of water. Then he made a broad sweep of his arm to point out a sizeable area that was “all shallow.” I made

a mental note that if I returned, it would be with my canoe.

Our destination was a stretch of shoreline with submerged boulders the size of refrigerators, where Jim had good luck in the past. I started out with a jig and leech while Jim went straight to a fly rod and popper. Although I immediately caught a small bass, the sight of a husky brute taking a swipe at Jim’s popper convinced me to haul out the fly rod.

Fishing conditions were perfect. A light breeze kept mosquitoes at bay, but barely rippled the water. Using an electric motor, Jim kept us parallel with the shoreline and just beyond the boulders. From the bow, I could cast to likely places. I used a 7-weight rod matched with a fast-taper weight-forward line, which allowed me to punch long casts with an air-resistant popping bug. I chose a diminutive Sneaky Pete balsa popper as my offering. Aside from baby ducks and swimming mice, most of the natural foods bass seek on the surface are relatively small at this time of year.

Jim caught the first good-sized bass, which we estimated to be

Jim Boyd of Grand Marais with an averaged-sized smallmouth from a lake with special bass regulations. | SHAWN PERICH

about 16 inches. After a couple of photos, the bass was released. My turn came next. First I caught a little bass, then a nice one. Moving along the shoreline, we had steady, if not fast action. I suspected the fishing would improve as the sun sunk toward the trees.

After fishing Jim’s hotspot, we motored to a nearby island, where we found more boulder bottom. Sparse reeds were growing on a boulder flat that was about a foot deep. I started casting the Sneaky Pete along the deep edge of the weeds, a place that often attracts hungry walleyes—and likely bass—at this time of year.

About 40 yards ahead of us, I saw a bass boil on the reedy flat. Jim moved the boat to a casting position. I made one cast to where the bass had been and then another. The third cast was the charm. Sneaky Pete disappeared in a swirl and I lifted into a chunky smallmouth. The fish swam out of the shallows and into the somewhat deeper water beyond. Soon I was admiring the bass while removing Sneaky Pete from its maw.

So began about a half-hour of exceptional fly-fishing. Jim acted as guide while I stood in the bow and cast into the reedy flats. Smallmouth were

cruising the shallows, marking their presence with occasional rises. Dropping Sneaky Pete in the vicinity usually elicited a strike. All of the bass ran 16 to 18 inches in length. A welcome surprise was an exceptional bluegill, perhaps the largest I’ve ever caught, that rose from the shelter of a sunken log. Like the bass, it was released.

In the heat of the moment, good fishing seems like it will last forever, but it never does. As daylight slipped away, so, it seemed, did the fish. We called it quits while it was still light enough to motor back to the launch.

Along the way, we passed a few walleye anglers who were still working the evening bite. I don’t know if they were catching anything.

The following night I went alone to a favorite lake where I like to fish for walleyes. Smallmouth bass invaded the lake a few years ago and have since proliferated. At the same time, my walleye fishing success has greatly diminished. Where I once expected to go home with a limit of small walleyes, now I feel lucky to catch two or three. Mostly I catch runt bass.

As an experiment, I took my fly rod and trusty Sneaky Pete. The bass were cooperative, so much so that I caught one on nearly every cast. Nearly all of

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them were less than 10 inches long. I missed a couple of good strikes from what seemed to be larger fish, but the best bass I landed was maybe 14 inches long. In this lake, all bass are fair game. There is no special regulation to protect 12- to 20-inchers. Fast action with a fly rod is always fun. But I finished the evening feeling less than satisfied. Although I kept hoping I’d connect with a bigger bass, I never did. Instead, I pulled in an endless procession of 8-inchers.

Minnesota is a walleye state where species like smallmouth bass play second fiddle. Walleye anglers often bash regulations intended to provide quality smallmouth fishing, blaming the bass for outcompeting our state fish. Even fisheries managers are reluctant to take steps to improve bass fishing and quickly backpedal when walleye anglers complain. At Mille Lacs, a successful protective regulation for smallmouths was suspended this year, perhaps to placate anglers frustrated with a downward trend in the lake’s walleye population. It’s even been reported that fish managers say removing the protected slot won’t affect Mille Lacs’ large and abundant bass. Many anglers disagree.

Having spent consecutive nights on lakes with and without smallmouth special regulations, I found the difference in fishing quality striking. It is difficult to imagine having better fishing than what we found on the lake with special regs—a lake that has remained productive for walleyes as well. In contrast, the lake without special regs swarms with runt bass and, compared with 10 years ago, now seems to have precious few walleyes. In other words, the lake with special bass regs offers great fishing, while the lake without regs is mediocre at best. Where would you rather wet a line?

The author with a smallmouth taken on a popping bug. | JIM BOYD

Orchids OF THE Lake Superior Basin

Those of us lucky enough to live in the Northern Wilds know the magnificence of this land. We have the largest, deepest and most pristine of the Great Lakes with a basin that is home to no less than 58 species of orchid. Yes, orchids. The mere mention of the name conjures up images of delicate flowers in a distant equatorial jungle. In the world of botany, orchids are considered the crown jewel, and we are second only to Florida in terms of Native North American species.

Orchidaceae is the largest family of flowering plants in the world found on every continent except Antarctica. There is tremendous diversity among the species, with some individuals having the tiniest of flowers while others bloom in complex elaborate displays. They are characterized as having three sepals and three showy petal flowers with the middle flower forming a lip. Most orchids are pollinated by insects such as bees, flies and mosquitoes, and depend on symbiotic relationships with soil fungi for nutrients.

In our area, orchid chasers should be prepared to get wet. Orchids characteristically grow in floating peat bogs, fens, swamps and marshes as well as other low lying wet areas. Take heart though because there are a few species that live on drier grounds that are near at hand.

The Pink Lady’s Slipper, Cypripedium acauleis, one of our earliest flowering orchids, appears from late May to midJune. With a bright solitary pink flower it is easily seen growing as an individual or in groups of up to 10 among other plants such as twin flower, wintergreen and Canada lily in mature forests of red, white or jack pine. Two large leaves grow from the bottom of an elongated hairy stalk with a sac that can vary in color from light- to dark-pink from year to year. Occasionally, you may find an all-white version of the flower known as Cypripedium acaule forma albiflorum.

Northern Coralroot, Corallorhiza trifida, is identified by the white color on its three lobed lip which sits atop a smooth, leafless greenish-yellow stalk. It has a paler tubular sheath around the lower parts of the stalk. Growing in clusters of up to 30, it is found on cool shady soils under conifers or mixed forests of birch and poplar in early to mid-June. Bright yellow, drooping, fat seed pods in the late summer are more conspicuous than the earlier flowers.

The stunning, brightly colored Dragon’s Mouth Orchid, Arethusa bulbosa, makes a brief appearance in early to midJune in fens fed by cool, clear, running water. Although common in some years, it can be completely absent the next year. A short orchid of only 4 to 8 inches is adorned by a single pink flower with a showy lower lip of magenta streaks and white and yellow fringed crests. A

Lady’s Slipper in bloom is a lovely sight.
TIM MCKILLOP

Underneath a Starry Sky A North Shore Campground Sampler

After a long winter cooped up indoors, there is nothing better than spending time around the campfire with all of the necessities within arm’s reach. For someone like me who spent years doing wilderness trips out of a small backpack, I now enjoy car camping because I can bring a cooler, lawn chairs and a real pillow.

A road-trip up Minnesota’s North Shore and beyond offers ample camping opportunities, and what we offer here is a short list pulled from many. Perhaps you’ve not ventured to the campgrounds of the North Shore, or perhaps you’ve always gone to the same one. Try something different this summer. Pitch a tent, light a fire, spend the night looking up at the stars.

Here is a sampling of Northern Wilds campgrounds. Whether you have a full size camping rig or a tent, there are campgrounds to suit every style.

Sites at Crosby-Manitou State Park are hike-in, and most are near the Manitou River. | MN DNR

Have motor - home, want campsite

Burlington Bay Campground, Two Harbors

Located at the east edge of town and right on the lake, there are some lovely camp sites with great views. This campground is set up for RV campers. While there are a few tent sites, most tent campers will prefer a more woodsy setting. If you are looking for a campground with hook-ups, this is the place to go. Additional sites added this year were strategically placed so they all have a lake-view. Open midMay to mid-October. Call (218) 834-2021 for reservations.

Grand Portage RV Park

The RV park is located at the marina and has 29 sites with full hook-ups, plus a comfort station with restrooms and showers. Guests may use the Grand Portage Lodge & Casino indoor pool and sauna. Nearby attractions include taking the ferry to Isle Royale, excellent hiking and the Grand Portage National Monument. For more information, please call 1-218-475-2476.

Dog Lake Resort RV Campground, north of Thunder Bay

This private campground has more than 100 sites with electricity and water hook-ups. The owners are RV enthusiasts and have created an RV haven with many amenities. They have boat and motor rentals available, which is smart, because Ontario fishing is hard to beat. Call toll-free 800-466-0918.

Check out our Upcoming Events!

June 13-15 Father’s Day Fishing Derby

June 21 Flea Market

June 27-29 Canada Day

Weekend

July 5 Adult Horseshoe Tournament

Something for everyone

Grand Marais RV Park and Campground

With 300 campsites, the Grand Marais campground has sites for all varieties of camping afficionados with varied levels of hook-ups as well as many tent sites. The views are spectacular and the close-to-it-all location makes this camping locale extremely popular. Call 800-998-0959 for reservations.

Thunder Bay KOA Campground

The KOA is something in between a lodge and a campground. There are tent sites, RV sites and small camper cabins. Families enjoy the driving range, golf, heated pool, bike rentals and catch-and-release trout pond. Hayrides, ice cream socials and other planned activities add to the fun in season. More information available at www. thunderbaykoa.com

Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay

Fort William has serviced and non-serviced sites for RVs or tents. The park has the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory (an even better view of the stars!) as well as the historical fur trading post. To book a campsite, call 807-473-2344.

Gunflint Trail Options

Hungry Jack Lodge Resort & Campground

This campground is located mid-trail on Hungry Jack Lake. Campsites are well-suited for RVs and tents and are secluded and wooded. Use the campground as a base for day trips into the BWCA. Plus the lodge has a full restaurant and bar, and there is a swimming beach, sauna and playground. Call 218-388-2265 for reservations.

Gunflint Pines

Located on Gunflint Lake, Gunflint Pines has well-wooded sites for tents and RVs, and some are lakefront. Many amenities including gift shop, snack bar, groceries, beer and ice, pontoon and boat/motor rental, shower house and public laundromat. Call 800-533-5814 for reservations.

Golden Eagle Lodge

Private campground mid-trail with 9 sites, each with picnic table, fire ring, water and electric hook-ups. Heated shower house that is wheelchair accessible. Many nearby hiking opportunities as well as BWCA day trip opportunities. Swimming beach and dock on Flour Lake. Call 800-346-2203 for reservations.

Tips for Camping

Plan ahead

While you might get lucky and get an open site at 5 p.m. on a Friday in August, it’s really unlikely. Many of these campgrounds let folks reserve sites a year in advance, and they stay booked all summer. That said, if you go on a spur-of-the-moment trip, some campgrounds do keep a site or two open and available as first-come, first-served. But you might expect to be wedged into the smallest site the campground has to offer.

Firewood

A campfire is generally a given, and most private campgrounds and state parks will have firewood bundles for sale. Don’t bring firewood from home unless it is certified as “heat-treated.” It is against Minnesota state law to bring unapproved firewood into any Minnesota state park, state forest or day-use area because doing so spreads invasive species such as the emerald ash borer.

Be prepared for the weather

The North Shore of Lake Superior is often 20 (or more) degrees cooler than the rest of Minnesota in summer. It can be 90F and humid in Minneapolis and closer to 50F along the shore. While the escape from the heat can be welcome, make sure you are prepared with warm clothing.

Have tent, want adventure

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

To camp here, you must either cart your belongings in to one of the cart-in sites or hike in from the campground parking lot. There are even two sites for Lake Superior kayakers. There are showers and toilets, and the sites are secluded.

George Crosby-Manitou State Park

Camping at Crosby-Manitou is more of a back country experience than a car-camping experience. This state park has secluded, remote sites ranging from 1/2 to 4 1/2 miles from the parking area. Many sites are along the Manitou River, and four of the sites are near Benson Lake. You can reserve a site through the state park online reservation system. They also have several sites available as first-come, first-served. There are latrines near each campsite. Water must be brought in or purified. What could be better than sleeping along a North Shore river as it gushes toward Lake Superior?

Superior National Forest Campgrounds

There are more than 50 campgrounds in Superior National

Forest that are either rustic or fee campgrounds. Rustic campgrounds (mostly located in the Tofte Ranger District and Isabella Area) have no fees, generally few sites, no garbage cans, and usually vault toilets (outhouses). Most rustic campgrounds were developed to access good fishing lakes. Fee campgrounds have a nightly camping fee, more sites, water available from a faucet, and garbage disposal. They may also have water at sites, electricity and sanitary facilities beyond vault toilets, such as showers or washrooms. Some of the campgrounds do have RV parking. Check out information on individual campsites by going to: www.fs.usda.gov/activity/superior/recreation/camping-cabins.

Ecuador Adventure on Wheels

At the end of April, winter held fast to the Gunflint Trail where I live. My husband and I were still snowmobiling in and out of our home, and though the snowpack decreased each day, melting was slow. We needed an escape.

Ecuador falls between Minnesota and Montana in size but is extremely diverse for a small country that sits on the Earth’s equator. The western coast on the Pacific is hot and humid, and the land juts upward as you travel into the country’s interior, into the Andes. Extinct and active volcanoes make up many of the peaks, including Chimborazo, which peaks at 20,564 feet. On the other side of the mountains, the land again drops away into the Amazon River basin.

Cuenca is a colonial city much like Ecuador’s capitol city, Quito, but not as big. Four rivers flow through Cuenca, all of which originate in the surrounding mountains and gush through the town in a constant stream of whitewater. The Tomebamba River flows out of Cajas National Park and is carefully protected because it provides drinking water for Cuenca. In May, daytime temperatures seemed to be consistently in the 70s. Rain came through once a day, enough to keep the river running with gusto and the hillsides green.

Our second day in Cuenca, my parents arranged for us to go biking with acquaintances of theirs. My parents own and operate the Windhorse Cafe’ in Cuenca, and couldn’t join us. Biking through Cuenca, I quickly learned, was hazardous. There are dogs everywhere. Some Ecuadorians keep their dogs fenced in, but many do not, and those not behind fences like to chase bikers. And perhaps worse than the dogs are the Ecuadorian drivers. In Ecuador, when it comes to getting around, it’s everyone for oneself.

After meeting up with my parents’ friends and their daughter, the five of us took off, on bike, to catch our bus to Girón. Soon, I found myself riding through the middle of

the Saturday market. Traffic was jammed together on the street, trucks trying to get in and out of parking spots to unload their baskets of produce. Sometimes my bike barely fit between two vehicles. I tried to hover there in those small spaces until I was thrust out the other side. We emerged from that confusion and found the bus stop. Here we met up with two more bikers, and the seven of us lifted our bikes up to a man on the bus roof where he tied them on. Thirty minutes later, when we crested a mountain pass, the bus pulled over, the same man crawled out a bus window, untied our bikes, dropped them down and the bus went on its way.

A light rain formed water droplets on my jacket as we took the dirt road down. The mountains extended green and lush in all directions. Occasionally we passed a small house, and one vehicle went chugging up the mountain in the other direction. Otherwise, it was just us.

My parents’ friends, Tony and his wife, had done this ride before and knew that eventually we’d end up in the town of Girón. From there, if we wanted to go to the waterfalls, we’d have to either ride back up the mountain 4 miles or hire a taxi. He thought there might be another road that would keep us on the same level of elevation as the falls and cut over in that direction. He insisted on this idea. Why go down if you must only go back up?

So, he started investigating side trails. The first one led our entire group into someone’s

Stopping to take in the view in the mountains above Gir´on. | ERIN ALTEMUS
Erin and Matt take a selfie at the Mirador de Turi, a high point above Cuenca. | ERIN ALTEMUS
[LEFT] The flower market in Cuenca is a sight for winter-weary eyes. | ERIN ALTEMUS [ABOVE] Oops, wrong trail. | ERIN ALTEMUS

Fun things to do in Cuenca:

1. Visit the flower market located at El Carmen Square. If you are long on snow and short on color, the vibrant and exotic flowers available please the visual and olfactory senses. The women selling the aromatic bouquets are quite charming too.

2. Relax in the thermal baths at Baños Cuenca, 8 miles outside of the city center. You can take a city bus there for a quarter or a taxi for $5-10. Several places offer thermal baths.3. Hike Cajas National Park. Spectacular high-altitude mountains make for great hiking and camping. The buses to Guayaquil go through Cajas and can drop you off at the ranger station or pick you up going the other way.

4. Ride the double-decker, open-top tour bus. Tours leave every hour from the Parque Calderon. The tour guide gives the tour in both Spanish and English,

though I’m not sure I understood much of either language, but the views of the city from the openair bus were worth the $5. Our guide constantly reminded us to stay seated as electric lines were not hung with the double-decker bus in mind. The bus goes up to Mirador de Turi, a high spot from which to view the city and includes a complimentary canelazo, a fruity, warm drink made with aguardiente (alcohol made from sugarcane).

5. Bike or hike to the waterfalls of Girón. Buses will take you and your bike to Girón, and you can get a taxi up to the waterfalls. There are three waterfalls that you can hike to and then you can bike the road back down into town. Fresh trout lunches are offered at the base of the falls, and if you liked the canelazo on the bus tour, you can order it by the pitcher here.

backyard. When Tony tried to continue on, he came face to face with a cow. This couldn’t be it. We continued down.

When a police officer passed, Tony stopped to ask him if there was such a road. Yes, the officer said, but you won’t be able to bike it. But we were gringos, and therefore thought we could bike it, so when we hit this obvious road that went in the right direction toward the falls, the group took it.

Soon it turned to mud, and we were no longer going down, but sharply up. We all walked our bikes, Matt and I huffing in the altitude that we weren’t yet acclimated to. Tony’s daughter looked at her father with dismay. Mud clung to our bike tires and our shoes like wet cement. But the group was not to be deterred. I kept my mouth shut as I was often the one to get people into predicaments like this. Whatever the group wanted to do, I would too. At one point, Tony turned to his daughter, pointing ahead to where the road/trail crested a hill.

“We’re almost to the top,” he told her. “After that, we don’t know.”

Finally, after several more breaks and continued climbing, we hit the crest, and a

deep valley spread down before us. Across that valley and high up in the mountains, a waterfall spilled over the top into the valley below.

The road turned sharply here to the right and downward, but in the wrong direction. We wanted to go left. Maybe there was a place we just couldn’t see where the road crossed back and connected to the waterfall trail? As Tony pushed on, the group protested. And then we followed him anyway. Clearly we were not going the right way. We stopped to ponder the vista and our predicament when a small Quichwa woman came walking over the same trail we had come. One of the better Spanish speakers inquired whether this road going to the right would ever turn left. She said no. She said we could go back a little and take another side trail, but where the trail ended, we’d have to ask the owner’s permission to go through, and they might not allow us.

“I guess they were right,” Tony’s wife said, referring to the various people who had told them that we wouldn’t get through to the waterfall.

We turned around and started back down

the muddy trail. Soon, we could see a different side road, directly down the hillside below us, so we turned our wheels into the cow pasture and headed down. It was mostly too steep to ride, though a few tried, upending their bikes in the process, and eventually we all ended up on the road, which we found continued going down, down, down to Girón.

In Girón, a truck taxi agreed to take all seven of us and our seven bikes up the road to the waterfall for $8. At the waterfall, we ate a lovely trucha (trout) lunch with a pitcher of canelazo (warm fruity drink with lots of alcohol). We hiked to the waterfall and then all rode our bikes back down into town. We saw our bus and it was the same bus as that morning. The bus helper man graciously climbed back onto the bus roof, pulled up all seven bikes and tied them on before we chugged back up the road toward Cuenca.

The waterfall above Gir´on creates its own wind tunnel. | ERIN ALTEMUS

The summer stars have driven the winter constellations over the sunset horizon, and even the “springy” form of Leo, the Lion, has moved into the west.

Behind Leo comes brilliant Arcturus, the brightest star in the northern dome of sky around the Earth. It can be found by following the curve of the Big Dipper’s handle, which “arcs to Arcturus.” The star ornaments the kite-shaped constellation Bootes, the Herdsman. Just east of Bootes hangs the lovely Corona Borealis, or Northern Crown.

Below Bootes, reddish Mars, the star Spica (in Virgo), and Saturn are strung west to east. Low in the southeast, Scorpius is coming into view. Its brightest star is gigantic Antares, whose name means “rival of Mars.” We’re fortunate this summer to see both of these objects at the same time.

To the west-northwest, Jupiter is making a last stand. It begins the month setting

northern sky

JUNE 2014

brightly, though it’s rather low in the east. The lovely planet will have another encounter with a waning moon on the 24th; look about 45 minutes before sunrise. You may be able to make out the Pleiades star cluster above and slightly left of Venus.

June’s full moon, known to Algonquin Indians as the Strawberry Moon, rises the evening of the 12th. At that moment it will be within three hours of peak fullness, which occurs at 11:11 p.m. (Moonrise time varies with location.) This full moon will ride rather low during the night. Being opposite the sun in the sky, a full moon must be low when the sun is high—as it is in June.

Summer arrives with the solstice at 5:51 a.m. on the 21st. At that moment the sun will be directly over the Tropic of Cancer. The University of Minnesota offers public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth campus. For more information and viewing schedules, see the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium at .ww

Strange Tales

Keeper Tales and Lighthouse Lore

“The most dangerous piece of water in the world” is how American novelist James Oliver Curwood described Lake Superior. Not surprising to find a number of lighthouses around the lake, with the first two, Whitefish Point and Copper Harbor, put in service in 1849. On the lake’s western shore, the first lighthouse was lit in 1865 at Minnesota Point; nicknamed “Old Standby,” it marked the entrance to the Superior-Duluth harbor.

The romantic era of lighthouses and its rugged keepers have passed on Lake Superior, but their stories live on, some becoming legends, like the infamous “Lighthouse of Doom” on Canada’s remote Talbot Island, a place the Ojibway had warned authorities was haunted by evil spirits. Regardless, St. Ignace Lighthouse was built and became Canada’s first light on the lake when it was lit in 1867, the same year as Canada Confederation. But it was a short existence. Within six years all three of its keepers died, and the Canadian government abandoned the site. According to lake lore, sometimes during a moonlit night, a white-haired woman–rumoured to be the widow of the second keeper Thomas Lamphier–can still be seen roaming the island.

Minnesota’s Split Rock Lighthouse has been tagged the most beautiful lighthouse in the United States, an iconic symbol of Lake Superior and Minnesota’s North Shore. It came into existence after successful lobbying by ship owners after the mega-storm of November 1905 that damaged 29 ships. Built atop a sheer 130-foot cliff by the U.S. Lighthouse Service, it was lit Aug. 1, 1910, and until decommissioning in 1969, its third-order Fresnel lens flashed every 10 seconds and was visible for 22 miles. Tragedy marred Split Rock’s first year of operation when two assistant keepers–both inexperienced sailors who didn’t follow the keeper’s advice about sailing–drowned while going by boat to get the mail. Today the site is operated by the Minnesota Historical Society and continues to be one of Minnesota’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing more than 120,000 visitors each year.

While many of the American lighthouses on western Lake Superior are on the mainland, Canada’s are all on islands. So if you don’t have a boat, aren’t a paddler or can’t get a ride, you can’t visit the lighthouses. But this is about to change, thanks to the Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior Inc. (CLLS), a newly launched nonprofit group with a mandate to “manage, maintain, and

restore regional lighthouses for public access.” Recently, Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans leased two lighthouses to CLLS—Porphyry Point Lighthouse (1873) at the entrance to Black Bay 30 miles east of Thunder Bay and just 7 miles north of the Canada-U.S. border, and No. 10 Lighthouse (1910) on its namesake No. 10 island, west of Shaganash Island. CLLS plans to annually bring summer visitors to the sites. Its goal is to develop a historic lighthouse trail as a tourism destination.

Paul Capon, the chair of CLLS, said, “Summer volunteers will work toward readying the locations for visiting tourists, artists, painters, outdoors adventurists, birders, kayakers, sailors and boaters.”

And what if you don’t have a boat to get there? No problem. According to Capon, CLLS will have charter boat services available.

CLLS’s historic Porphyry Point Lighthouse made international news Nov. 9, 1929, when the Paterson fleet freighter Thordoc, loaded with 2,000 tons of flour for Montreal, got stranded on a reef southeast of the point. New York’s Brooklyn Daily Eagle reported, “Vessel piled into rocks during dense fog yesterday. When vessel struck, the crew took to the boats, rowing in the early morning darkness for several hours before making a landing near the Point Porphyry Lighthouse.” A formal investigation found the captain ‘’erred grievously” and suspended his master’s certificate for two months; four years later, the ship’s owner was ordered to pay $146,326 (2014 value $2.7 million) to Robin Hood Flour Mill as compensation for loss of cargo. And the Thordoc? It was abandoned to the underwriter as a total loss (though Porphyry’s keeper managed to scoop up a 10-years supply of bagged flour), successfully refloated, repaired, repurchased by Paterson company and put back in service for another 10 years.

Some tales boggle the mind, like Battle Island’s first official keeper Charles McKay row-sailing 92 miles to Port Arthur (now Thunder Bay) on business, and then in dangerous December, to Sault Ste Marie to see his family for Christmas. Or the keeper-couple who lived for 34 years at Isle Royale’s isolated Menagerie Island Lighthouse, while raising 13 children. Got to admire the enterprising Edward McKay who supplemented his Porphyry keeper income by selling hundreds of pounds of fish each week to the Booth Fishing Company. And smile at the warm-fuzzy story about the late Dave Sokalsky helicoptering back to Porphyry Point–on his own expense–to search for, and find, his lost cat.

All lighthouses are now automated on Lake Superior, and there are no more keepers on duty.

Here thro’ the varying seasons Gray weather-beaten I stand Guiding the course of the seaman, Cautiously making the land...
—CAPTAIN ALEXANDER C. CORKUM, FROM MINOT’S BEACON, 1906.
Established in 1937, Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse has a 31-foot wooden tower with a red lantern on top of the keeper’s house. In 1971, the steamship Simcoe hit the site, moving the lighthouse about three feet. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER
Corkum was ithe Master of the famous luxury yacht Gunilda when she sank in Lake Superior near Rossport in 1911.
Trowbridge Falls Lighthouse, once called the loveliest lighthouse in the Great Lakes. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER

Lighting Up the North Shore BROADBAND GOES LIVE

Broadband has arrived on the North Shore.

A few homes and businesses in Lake and Cook counties are already enjoying the benefits of high speed fiber optic cable, and lots more are slated to get connected this summer.

“We’re just starting installs,”said Joe Buttweiler, general manager of Arrowhead Cooperative, which is building the system in Cook County. The final connections of the fiber optic network to homes and businesses has started in Schroeder, he said. “We’re taking the month of May to see how it comes together, and by June, we’ll put a timeline together for connecting customers in the Tofte and Lutsen areas.”

In Lake County, Phase I of the project, which includes construction of distribution lines in Silver Bay and Two Harbors, is almost complete, with a few customers in Silver Bay already using the system, said Jeff Roiland, general manager of Lake Connections, a county-owned utility company. Roiland said if all goes as planned, customers in both communities will be lit up by mid-summer. From 70 to 75 percent of the households and businesses in both locations have signed up so far, he said.

Both Arrowhead Cooperative and Lake Connections will be constructing distribution lines this summer.

“Every house that receives electricity ser-tweiler said. ”There are about 5,200 homes and businesses in the county. We have about 4,000 homes that gave us permission to build a drop to them, but not all of them

Lake Connections offers Internet, voice and television packages. Exterior drops to the homes are free with a two-year contract. In addition, basic installation of services in each home is free through the end of the

Jeff Roiland, general manager of Lake Connections, stands in front of the fiber optic conduit that will be installed this year. | JOAN FARNAM

year if a two-year contract is signed, Roiland said.

Broadband Internet download speeds range from 20 Mbps (megabits per second) to 50 Mbps in Cook County, 30 to 100 Mbps in Lake County. Both are considerably faster than currently available on DSL lines or satellite.

Fiber optics offer much more than high transmission speeds, however. They also provide bandwidth, so that multiple devices can be used at the same time without bogging down the system.

Katie Crow, manager of corporate brand communications for TBaytel, a telecommunications company in Thunder Bay, said that “once you put in fiber, it’s an absolute game-changer. The troubles and amount of repairs goes down to almost nothing. That’s why it’s so expensive to deploy.”

She also said fiber optics open a whole new world of technology in the home. “Fiber will be able to accommodate anything you can think of,” she said.

She also said that Cook County and Lake County, which both received hefty grants and low-cost loans from the USDA’S Rural Utility Service and county

governments to build a fiber-to-the-home broadband network, are extremely fortunate.

“Our rural residents aren’t going to see it for a long time,” she said, adding that TBaytel has a fiber optic installation program in the city of Thunder Bay, but not to outlying areas.

“That’s a huge win for you,” she said. “It’s probably increased your property values by who knows what. It’s a big deal.”

Buttweiler agreed. “People are already making purchasing decisions on whether fiber is available,” he said.

Both Arrowhead Cooperative and Lake Connections are currently taking applications for hook-ups as well as developing schedules for installations.

For more information, call Arrowhead Cooperative at 218-663-7239 or visit www.aecimn.com.

For Lake County, contact Lake Connections at 218-834-8500 or visit www.lakeconnections.com.

OVERHEAD

the lakes are calling you.

Summertime and lakes in northern Minnesota—a perfect combination. Now all you need is something to go with it. Whether it’s a new fishing boat, power boat or RV, you probably have the perfect one already picked out. Now let us help you with the financing. With our low rates, making that perfect summer purchase may be more affordable than you think.

Because if you’re up here, you belong here.

Silver Bay | Lutsen | Grand Marais | Grand Portage www.northshorefcu.org

ReaL eSTaTe

Aspenwood between Tofte & Lutsen On Lake Superior

• 4 Bedroom/4 Bath

• Stone fireplace

• Granite Countertops

• Solid Maple Flooring

• Huge Master Suite

• Custom Maple Cabinets

• $359,900 owner/broker

PRoPeRT y MaNageMeNT SeRViCe

Vacation Rental: Cabins! Condos! Homes! Check website for details

Long Term Rental: This is the time to invest, Let us do the rest. Family Property: We can help make the family cabin workable and pleasurable

Call for an appointment for a confidential discussion.

Judy Motschenbacher, Broker Deborah Nelson, Owner

(218) 387-1447 cell: (218) 370-0136 14 Broadway South, Grand Marais Mailing: PO Box 1276, Grand Marais, MN 55604 Visit our webside to see our current listings: www.superiorescapes.info email: dnelson@superiorescapes.info

Own a slice of Minnesota’s Favorite Resorts

We bring you closer. To the lake, each other and your vacation property dreams.

Bluefin Unit 16

2BR, 2 BA. Sweeping views. Rent as one or two units to maximize income.

Bluefin Unit 48 New interior, luxurious appointments. 3BR, 3BA. Will be a popular rental unit.

The Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts is unmatched in its intimate proximity to Lake Superior. We offer three distinct ownership opportunities to achieve what you’ve been dreaming of for years.

• Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior: Award-winning property, Minnesota’s Favorite Resort. One, two and three bedroom condos & townhomes on Lake Superior with access to restaurants, pools, saunas, tennis court, gift shops, & full service spa.

• Surfside on Lake Superior: New, spacious luxury townhomes on Lake Superior. Home to Waves of Superior Spa & Café. Offering shared ownership opportunities.

Bluefin Unit 55 Great location next to outdoor heated pool. 3 BR, 3 BA. Beautiful interior w/ custom baths.

Bluefin Unit 66 Spectacular setting. Largest townhome. 3 BR, 3 BA. $100K in annual income.

Surfside on Lake Superior: New townhomes, total coastal luxury right on the shore of Lake Superior. 3,000 s/f, 3BR, 3BA. Quarter-share ownership w/ flexibility for personal use & rental income. Excellent family retreat or investment property. Prices from $179K-$229K, includes furnishings.

• Temperance Landing on Lake Superior: Distinctive log home luxury on ledgerock and cobblestone beach near Temperance River. 3 BR, 3BA custom log homes with access to resort amenities at Surfside.

Eric Frost

Sales Agent, Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts

Let Eric, exclusive sales agent for Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts, provide the details about each property and guide you through the process. Contact him today to learn more.

218-663-6886 | eric@bluefinbay.com

ReaL eSTaTe SaLeS
Bluefin Bay Condos & Townhomes

$49,700 - Bloomquist Mtn.

5.8A

$69,900

6.8A

$59,900

views of Lake Superior! Large building site has been leveled. MLS 6000432

Lake Superior Lots

$319,900 - 2888 W Hwy 61

Great views with 1.24A, 200’ ledgerock shoreline embedded with Thomsonite Stones. Close to town, relatively easy building site and nice mix of trees. NEW MLS 6002353

$97,900 - Big Bay, Hovland

Deep Lake Superior lot w/11A of heavily wooded land. Gently sloping topography to 318’ of shore. PRICED TO SELL!! MLS 6002372

$239,000 - Stonegate Road

Your choice of 3 Hovland lake lots! Features 2+ acres with 200’ of frontage.Very private, convenient location & well wooded. MLS 6002103

$219,900 - 14 Stonegate Road

1.17A of nicely wooded, private, Lake Superior land. 200’ shoreline in an unspoiled location. MLS 6001608

$149,900 - 57XX East Hwy 61

4.1A Hovland lake lot, 280 ft of shore. Driveway, power, & septic mound in place. MLS 6002142

$299,900 - 2884 W Hwy 61

Attractive 1.30A of lakeshore just past Terrace Point. 371’ of stunning ledgerock shoreline. MLS 6000576

$239,900 Birch cliff Road - 2.25A Exceptional views of the rugged Superior shoreline and 280’ of cliff frontage. Gravel driveway,

Inland Lake Homes Inland Lake Lots

McFarland Lake This

Devil Track Lake

Homes & Cabins

Large Acreage

$129,900 - 72.56A Camp 20 Rd

Rare large parcel (72.56 acres) with prime hunting and many recreational possibilities. Nice forest cover with aspen, birch, balsam, spruce and pine trees. Here is your recreational dream!

$57,500 - 38A - Camp 20 Rd

38A, situated in great hunting country. Trails and old logging roads that make for wonderful hiking, snow shoeing or cross country skiing. A cute cabin and outhouse complete this getaway package.

6001171

$26,900 - 23A Irish Creek Road

Year round 23A; abuts State land, Nice mix of mature trees and gently rolling topography. Easy road access.

$79,900 - 92A Tom Lake Rd

Rolling, wooded, great place with one identified and many other building sites. Nice 92A with lots of potential for recreation or building your own secluded hideaway.

$649,900 - 110A W Highway 61 110A wooded land, on Hwy 61 corridor. Year round access, many development options, multiple zoning (Far-3, R-1, and Commercial)

MLS 6002185

$199,900 - 93A E Highway 61

Very rarely do we have so large and splendid parcel (93A) close to Lake Superior, with excellent access plus electricity, phone and fiber optic cable nearby.

MLS 6001571

$159,900 - 200A Camp 12 Rd

200 acres of land, which is basically surrounded by State and Federal land so you have access to thousands of acres!! Talk about the ultimate hideaway! Mature trees, gently rolling topography, wild life trails and logging roads.

MLS 6002411

$49,900 - 40A Camp 12 Rd

40A off of Irish Creek Rd. Surrounded on 3 sides by State land. Approx ¼ mile of babbling frontage on Irish Creek.

MLS 6002405

$81,900 - 40A Arrowhead Trail

40A of excellent recreational land with excellent potential and building sites.

MLS 31141

$85,000 - 34A Arrowhead Trail

34A of great year round access to prime recreational opportunities.

MLS 31731

$299.900 - 43A County Road 7

Large, nicely wooded parcel with seasonal Lake Superior views! Excellent development potential with multiple zoning (R1 & Far 3). Survey and wetlands delineation completed in 2007. Electric at road.

MLS 6002300 NEW

$199,900 - 40A Morgan Rd…

Surrounded on three sides by Cascade State Park. Located off a year round road and connects with the Superior Hiking Trail. Close to town with lovely Lake Superior views, and an excellent mix of trees.

MLS 6002352 NEW

$39,900 - 40A County Road 69

Good location and large 40A tract. Power available. Access via logging road and easement off Arrowhead Trail. Exceptional price! MLS 6002427 NEW

6A,

County Rd 7

Wooded

$19,900

1.72A NEW MLS 6002323 $29,900

1.72A NEW MLS 6002425 $29,900

Morgan Road

This 20A parcel abuts the Cascade State Park for excellent privacy, yet is only minutes from Grand Marais. Land features Lake Superior views, a healthy mix of trees, and access to the Superior Hiking Trail.

Private and remote, yet only a short drive from Grand Marais. This 20A parcel has Lake Superior views, a great mix of trees, and abuts State

6002362 $119,900

County Rd 14

Nicely wooded 20A parcel consisting of two lots! Year round access with electricity and telephone readily available. NEW MLS 6002375 $74,900

10A with year round access, electricity and phone. Abuts Federal land and provides access to an incredible amount of Gov’t land.

MLS 6002376 $44,900

980 W 3rd St

This

Wood Mountain Rd

This

Arrowhead Tr

Excellent recreational land with building sites and excellent potential.

East Bay Suites

3BR, 2BA, open

neW! puBLic BeacH to Lake Superior a stone’s throw from your front door! nearly historical home has been lovingly restored from studs to siding, only left is your finishing touches to make this home your own! 17 acres, 4+ garage workshop, and an easy stroll to Lake superior beach just minutes to Grand marais, this home is a keeper! mLS#6002339 $265,000

WHoa momma Look at tHeSe vieWS! Perched on the mountain side, just minute’s to Lutsen mountains ski & summer resort! main level living, decks, and 2 car garage and tons of value! reDuceD!

Lake Superior Log Home near tettegoucHe State park with 50 mile views! a rchitecturally hand crafted log home on over 230 ft of shoreline on Lake superior! designed for main level living, the Great room is all about the views with huge windows and walk out deck, grab the railing because the views just may knock you over! sophisticated k itchen with quartz counters, large island, Viking stove! 3 season screen porch with a gas stove and walk out lower level designed to have family and friends enjoy their own space! sweet interior sauna, Lovely landscaped grounds, fabulous 2 plus workshop garage! tons of Value! mLS#6001241 $599,000 reDuceD! $525,000 eaSy Living

neW! WeL coming Home adjacent to Father baragas Park on Lake superior! sit on your deck and take in Lake superior with the Cross r iver raging in the background, what a great setting! 3 bedrm home, guest cabin, Very Cool sauna, 2 car garage! mLS#tBD $449,000

neW! SHocking v ieWS, increDiBLe Home! bowl Over your Guests with the Lake superior views, quality crafted home with fine finishings and thoughtful design! Lovely setting perched atop the sawtooth r idges over blue Fin bay in tofte! mLS#6002232 $550,000

Lake superior home! Unforgettable to say the least, enjoy a Gorgeous superior stone Corner Fireplace with main Level Living, and a modern functional design that welcomes your own touches for updating! Over 300 ft of shoreline, garage and outdoor fireplace! mLS#6000899 reDuceD!

$275,000

mLS#31207 $279,900 reDuceD Huge!!

neW! crafteD from tHe ruggeD LeDgerock! This Lake superior masterpiece exudes thoughtful design focused on joining the big Lake with the Living space. enter in to the Great room to Jaw dropping Views through a 22 ft Prow of Windows rivaled only by a Gorgeous well situated Fireplace. Over 11 ac. & 317 ft of shoreline scratching in to the Lake creating interesting e xploration with many opportunities for Lakeside firepits! mLS#6002276 $849,900 meeting of Water anD WiLDerneSS! 200 ft of Ledge rock sprawling for what seems like a football field in to Lake superior! north of Castle danger, Phenom build site! mLS#30422 $409,000 Dreamy Lake Superior land and lakeshore! several acres of privacy and way more than 200 ft of Level access Lake superior shoreline in schroeder, near sugarloaf Cove naturalist a rea! mLS#6001554 $320,000 Lake Superior anD LutSen Leads to the Good Life! sweet Lake superior build ready parcel in the heart of Lutsen, driveway in place all you need is some vision for laying out your home to take advantage of the Creek and the level ledgerock of Lake superior!

Wi L derness L ake h O mes... Fami Ly FU n time!

aBout

LutSen Lake Home, Wilderness Living! in between the boundary Waters and Lutsen mountains ski resort with miles of snowmobile and cross county trails between! year round a mazing Cabin, Oversized garage with workshop & bunkhouse! mLS#29855 $379,000

a rcHitectura L Doozie on cHriStine Lake in Lutsen! Luxury Lodge style home with basalt stone Fireplace engulfed between built in douglas Fir bookcases… Get the picture? total Quality, total serenity from this very Cool Lutsen Lake home with bunkhouse, tons of

LutSen Sea viLL aS, Level accessible Lake superior! The Lutsen sea Villas are a Great Way for those who enjoy vacationing long term or short term along the north shore! a ffordable association dues make for low maintenance living with a good management company available for offsetting the ownership costs. a nd if you want to keep the Villa all to yourself, you can! One, two and three bedroom Villas available, most recently update and all in the heart of Lutsen just a short shuttle to Lutsen mountains ski resort! From $189,000 Call tOday!

mLS#26022 k3

1BR plus loft, Totally Renovated! $189,000

mLS#6001261 B3

2BR Villa in Mint condition! $300,000

mLS#6001265 B1

3BR Corner Villa, Mint Condition! $400,000

neW! mLS#6002252

2BR Contemporary! $254,900

me G eneratin G OPPO rt U nities

famiLy fun at LutSen mountainS - cariBou HigHL anDS r eSort! enjoy low maintenance vacation living at the famed Caribou highlands resort, tons of amenities and good year round rental revenues to off set ownership costs!

mLS#6000261 Studio ask for 108a $68,900 rock Bottom price

mLS#6001787 1 Br 1Ba mint! $109,900 ask for 128B!

mLS#6001192- 4Br 4Ba aSk for 503 moose mt $299,000

mLS#6002082 corner townhome w/ main Level Living! $365,000 neW

vacation getaWay at cH ateau Lev eaux! Fabulous Location, improving rental incomes and tons of interior improvements of Common Lodge entry, swimming Pool, etc! Condo is mint Condition, Great Views! mLS#26043 reDuceD! $122,500 aSk for #31! ironic iSn’t it? a condo in the middle of the northwoods, isabella location! What a great idea for those outdoor enthusiasts looking for very nice accommodations to come back to after a full day of fishing, boating, hiking, biking, snowmobiling and cross country skiing! it’s really the best of the northwoods at a great price! mLS#6001979 $145,000

a rtfuL Living at k a H nee ta H! These authentic north shore Cottages enjoy Lutsen’s Cascade beach rd frontage along Lake superior (Great rental revenue!) and highway access for Lutsen’s treasured a rt Gallery! Live and Work on the north shore with an e xisting business! mLS#6002091 $299,000

cLean LineS and easy Living in tofte! sweet 2 plus bedroom, detached garage and nice Lake superior views, you will enjoy coming home after a day of outdoor adventure! a must see to appreciate how nice this home is! mLS#6001945 $169,000 reDuceD!

neW! WeL coming tofte Home on six and a half acres of boreal forest! The remodeled kitchen is mint, great space for cooking up plenty of family meals! Living room is large and open to dining area, just needs a fresh coat of paint and you are going to love this home! Large crafts room/art studio attached to the garage! mLS#6002213 $199,000

tHe rougH Stuff has already been done. build-ready site with high-quality components in place: insulated slabs for house w/ porch and garage are set up with in-floor heat, plumbing, electric, time-dose & heated septic system, 179’ deep well, gravel driveway, rocks/boulders, 15 cords of clear aspen sawn for paneling for house/ cabinets/counters if desired, blue prints for buildings/design are also included which saves a fortunate buyer thousands of dollars. Priced W eLL beLOW what has already been put into this tremendous lot! mLS#6001308 $129,900

neW! SmootH SaiLing Cabin in

Live in Sty Le on Caribou trail! Lutsen living minutes to the ski resort and Caribou Lake! Functional design, lots of storage and separate garage on 5 acres of maple!

s i Lver Bay to Litt L e Marais to Fin L and & i sa B e LL a!

New! Show Stopping Views from this White tail r idge building site, looks over Wolf r idge eLC, astounding mountain top Views! mLS#tBa $79,000

New! Rocky Wall land with driveway in place, hUGe views of shovel Point! mLS#6002434 $99,000

Swallow Lake Land, isabella a rea Wilderness shoreline in a mature pine area off deep Lake rd. multitude of Lakes abound, much recreational opportunity!

mLS#30253 $99,000

Enough Is Enough! We are talking 30 acres of elevated rolling hills bordering the r idge looking down the Little manitou r iver to Lake superior. Can subdivide, but at this price, you’ll want to keep it all for yourself!

mLS#24573 $179,000

SHAZAAAM Lake Superior views with 5th Wheel, electric at build site minutes to tettagouche state Park mLS#30736 $119,000!

Sonju Lake Road in Finland! several large parcels from $35,000 mLS#6001324

Huge Lake Superior views, build site surrounded by cliff wall and creek! mLS#tBD $89,900

s chroeder a rea n ear the c ross r iver!

Zeke’s Road 30 ac parcel-great hunting land! mLS#6001525 $47,500

Perhaps the most unique piece of property on the north shore! Old rock quarry is surrounded by steep ledge rock reaching up to the sky. your own little lagoon like lake on the top of sawtooth mountain ridge, it’s simply stunning. rugged terrain that was touched by man many years ago, time has now passed and the land has gone back to wilderness with mature pines and south facing maples.

mLS#6001560-66 from $95,000

40 ac at the end of Wild Onion trail! mLS#6001602 $49,000

10 Ac Parcels of Maples! scramble across the rolling terrain of mature maples (breathtaking in the Fall) to a sweet building site Perched Over a mixed boreal Forest, Good Levels of serenity For sure! year round access and electric at road!

mLS#6000676 $56,900

Over 5 acres of Young Aspen and Lake superior Views on the sugarloaf road, Walk to superior hiking trail or sugarloaf Cove on Lake superior! mLS#25632 $29,900

Sugarloaf Retreats on High Ridge Drive, located up the surgaloaf road from sugarloaf Cove naturalist a rea, enjoy large acreage parcels at rock bottom prices! From $62,000! mLS#25701-4

t o F te a rea

n ear B LueFin Bay r esort!

Just Up the Sawbill Trail

Grab your little piece of the northwoods, rolling terrain and small community feel with year round access, great build sites! mLS#6001346 from $17,500!!

Hilltop Views at LeVeaux mountain! sweet Lake superior views or just a great lot bordering fed land! from $19,500 mLS#27035

Toftevaag on the Sawbill, nice Lake Views! Walk to the Coho, great location! from $53,000 mLS#29252

Lutsen Lake v iews & w i L derness Lands!

New! Gorgeous 5 acre parcels in the heart of Lutsen paved Caribou trail locale bordering UsFs lands!

mLS#6002383 from 54,900$77,500

New! Rollins Ridge land, hike to Oberg mtn from your front door! mLS#6002351 $59,900

Honeymoon Trail Wildlife Lands!

10 ac nearby Poplar r iver in Lutsen, great hunting or hiking land at a sUPer Great price! nice boreal Forest with build site bordering UsFs lands! mLS#26729 $39,900

Caribou Lake Area Build Site on 5

Ac! at the base of the sawtooth r idge overlooking Caribou Lake is this sweet land perfect for your year round cabin with easy access to all that Lutsen Offers!

mLS#6000-049

reDuceD! $49,900

30 acres of Prime Wilderness Land with year round access and electric at street with Views of Lutsen’s famed Clara Lake! mLS#6001462 $137,500

Lovely 20 acre parcel located on the outskirts of Lutsen, only minutes to bigsby and Caribou Lakes! nice mixed forest with high ground for choice building sites. Great price for your northwoods getaway!

mLS#31531 $41,900

Gorgeous Views of Williams and Wills Lake in Lutsen!

year round access, electric, mountain top site bordering UsFs land. a Wonderful place to build your northwoods home!

mLS#tBa $79,000

Super Building Site on Honeymoon Trail Lutsen locale with electric and all year access! high ground!

m LS#6001796 $39,000

Bargain Clara Lake site! yr round access, electric at street and cleared build site perfect for your Getaway Cabin on Coveted Clara Lake! mLS#6001680 $155,000

Grand Marais Location Location Location!

New! Birch Drive just west of Grand marais, wilderness living with sUPer build sites, borders UsFs lands, year round access!

Great buy at $49,900

mLS#6002349

New! Own your own park in the heart of Grand marais!

mLS#6002396 $17,000

A River Runs Through It!

160 acres of Upland and r iver Frontage on the Cascade r iver near eagle mountain, a r are Find with tons of opportunity. Whether hunting land or Wilderness retreat, this is a Great Opportunity!

mLS#31732

reDuceD $159,000

Between Grand Marais and Devil Track Lake 60 Acres! rolling terrain and nice mixed forest and grasslands just up the Gunflint trail and devil track Lake rd, this is a great location and an amazing price!

mLS#6000-606 $95,900

Bordering Cascade River Park! Potential to subdivide or keep it all for yourself! nice Lake superior Views from multiple build sites, hike right in to the Park land with access to Cascade r iver falls and Lake superior! mLS#31097

reDuceD! $200,000

County Rd 7 Murphy Mountain Lake View lands!

bargain buys in young Poplar Forest, easy clearing for sweet Lake superior Views for as little as $39,900! Or enjoy hilltop build site with driveway in place, creek bordering site for $89,900! mLS#25633

mLS#24313 $137,500 reDuceD!!

Tofte 90 Hoaglund Drive MLS# 6002328 $545,000

stove. Nice level lot. 178’ of very private gravel shoreline close to Naniboujou and Judge Magney State Park.

Lutsen 4170 Cascade Beach Road MLS#6002279 $995,000

Beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath home with private 2 bdrm seaside cottage located on Cascade Beach Rd on Lake Superior in Lutsen. This home is perched over a ledge rock shoreline with perfect orientation toward the lake. The home features a Great Room with fireplace with the Lake serving as your focus. Gourmet style kitchen sets up perfect for entertaining. Heated drive through garage and attached two stall over sized garage for multiple cars, boats and utility storage.

G RE aT VaC an T Lan D Va LUES

Boulder Pt Road, Lutsen Lk Superior views, close to Superior National Golf Course & Ski Hill

20 acre parcel MLS#6001644 $135,000 40 acre parcel MLS#6001643 $199,000

Jonvick Creek Beautiful home sites in mature Maple, Spruce and Birch forest. REDUCED! $29,500-54,900

Stonegate Road Private Lake Superior lot in Hovland Includes driveway, electric & new septic. (A/O) MLS# 24409 $399,900

xxx Sawbill Trail 120 Acres located up the Sawbill Trail. Large Maples MLS# 27551 $199,900

Lot 2 Quist Acres 5 acre parcel on Quist Road outside of Grand Marais. MLS#30439 $47,500

Lot 5 Quist Acres 5 acre parcel on Quist Road outside of Grand Marais, sister parcel to Lot 2. MLS#30440 $49,900

xxx Mountain Ash Ln Cedar covered hillside overlooking Lake Superior in Lutsen. MLS#60000147 $649,000

xxx Mile O’Pine 3.27acres, Gunflint Trail. MLS#6002389 $179,900

Johannes Toftey Homestead Sites

Beautiful hillside lots in Tofte with Lake Superior and Carlton Peak views. $35,750-55,000

Tofte Airport Home Sites Located between Lutsen and Tofte. Convenient Location with outstanding values. $24,750-33,000

Tait Pines Nestled hillside adjacent to Tait Lake in Lutsen, just 13 miles up the Caribou Trail. $37,950-$57,750

Caribou Hillside Outstanding homesites tucked along the hillside of Caribou Lake. $52,250-$126,500

Lot 13 Sawmill Bay 233’ shoreline 2.2 acres MLS#31370 $88,000

342 Rd Schroeder 160 acres covered in Maples, Birch, and other mixed forest. Can be sold as parcels.

MLS#6000143 $199,000

Boulder Point Rd, Lutsen 20 acre parcel MLS#6004644 $135,000 40acre parcel MLS#6001643 $199,000

Lake and the Lutsen areas.

lake superior properties

l ake superior Charmer Privacy, gardens and 250' Lake Superior Shoreline make this a fantastic home and location! Look at Artists Point from the deck. Feel secluded at the end of the road. The house sits just feet from the stunning Lake Superior shoreline! Home features huge kitchen/dining room, private master suite, and a private 2-BR guest suite. Gourmet kitchen with wall of glass that brings the outdoors inside. Many built-ins, skylights and cozy features. mls#tBD $625,000

NeW! private l ake superior retreat

Two North Shore historic log cabins with outstanding lake views along the dramatic, unspoiled shoreline. Trails, bridges and scenic overlooks make the whole property accessible and it feels like your own state park! Main cabin has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and spectacular views. Guest cabin had a main room and porch. There is much hand-made attention to detail in these historic and classic Aldrich log cabins. mls#6002084 $1,250,000

NeW! ClassiC log Charm/ CasCaDe BeaCh. This early North Shore log cabin has all the warmth and feel that only vintage cabins possess. Log beams, wood floors, cobblestone fireplace and a stunning Lake Superior setting. 150 feet of ledge rock shore lies just steps away from the large deck. Spectacular views up and down the shore! There's a large 2 car garage to house all your toys. Seasonal use and cozy quarters make this a perfect place to enjoy the lake and nearby state park without the hassle of a large home. It's a simple and charming retreat. mls#6002401 $445,000 three speCtaCular lake superior lots at terraCe poiNt. Outstanding shoreline views all the way to Artist Point & Grand Marais. Each has dramatic shoreline. Great location west of town. priced from $175,000 to the unique and pristine point at $409,900. mls 6000590, 6001067, 6001068.

ChimNeY ro Ck poiNt. Spectacular Lake Superior lot framed by the palisades. Nicely wooded with two or more perfect build sites. Shared septic for development is in. Each lot will install personal septic system. Association fee $500 per year. mls#6002417 $365,000

iNlaND Water properties

CasCaDe lake privaCY.

This is the only private land on the lake. Enjoy the utmost privacy and unspoiled wilderness views with 87 acres and over 3,000’ of shoreline. Includes a well-maintained cabin, sauna, dock and outhouse. Easy year-round access. Unique opportunity to own a private wilderness compound! mls #31513 $700,000.

NeW! l arge lot-great vieW

Over 660' on Sea Gull Lake. Tremendous views, many build sites and a nice boat cove. Driveway into pad where old cabin was located. Great location for your wilderness home or cabin!

mls #6002455 $329,000

log CaBiN/tom lake. Beautiful log cabin tucked into the woods with peace, quiet and amazing privacy. Over 540' easy accessible shoreline on the NW end of Tom Lake. Custom built, many upgrades and personal touches. Large 4 season porch. You will watch the sun rise across the sparkling waters. Compliant well and septic, power by Outback Solar. Includes dock and boat lift. mls#6002392 $282,000

WilsoN lake lot.

Strikingly beautiful 5.4 acre lot, 355’ of shoreline with great build sites near the lake or tucked around the bluff for gorgeous views. mls #6000757 $265,800.

private hiDeaWaY.

Charming cabin on 150' of Little Ollie Bay on Poplar Lake. Adjoins BWCAW. Easy access to Banadad Ski Trail. Nice views, deck, 2 bedrooms, bath and sauna. Used as a managed rental unit with good income and history.

mls #6002044 $259,900.00

mCFarlaND l ake

CaBiN Beautiful cedar full log cabin on McFarland Lake. Cozy hide-away with sauna building, guest cabin, storage building. Great shoreline with new dock. Partially furnished. Large deck, nice cedar trees. Great view of palisade. mls #6002033 $259,000.00

tuCker l ake lotGunflint Trail--Tucker Lake Lot. Have tons of privacy on this 3.68-acre lake lot with over 550 feet of shoreline, plus 237 feet more shore across the private road, in a protected bay. Nice trees, great building site. Pristine views, and direct access to the BWCAW. mls #6002030 $239,900.00

CaBiN oN trout lake. Charming custom-built 1 BR cabin with 150’ shoreline on desirable Trout Lake. Knotty pine paneling, lots of artistic touches. 3.27 acres. mls #31258 $199,900.

BorDer, Beaut Y

aND BWCaW. Rare opportunity to own a private wilderness escape, North Fowl Lake. 2 BRs, full kitchen, comfortable living room and large deck. Large open yard, sauna, storage shed and dock. Great privacy, 200’ of shoreline, abutting the BWCAW. Water access. mls #30184 $199,000.

FamilY CaBiN—BirCh lake. Family retreat w/2 BR, 1 BA, large deck, charming log bunkhouse, 1-car garage. Great privacy, large dock on 150’ shoreline. mls #31680 $199,900.

level lot, NiCe WooDs, easY shore. This Devil Track Lake lot has easy access from county road, power, phone and great building sites. South shore, 200 ft. frontage, great views. Build your home on the lake here. mls #6001771 $198,900.

large aND private lake lot. This Greenwood Lake parcel has great views, classic boulder shore, dense pine forest and easy lake access. Plenty of elbow room with many nice cabin/home sites. mls #6001764 $192,500

three great lots oN looN lake. This lot is located on the south side of Loon Lake and offers great lake views. The main road is in place and power is on the lot line. These lots offer a great shoreline and many nice trees. mls #6001605, 6002124, 6002128 $192,000

lost l ake retreat. 680 of private shoreline. One of only nine 20-acre lake lots on Lost Lake. Premier location with view of the length of the 70-acre lake. This is a private lake with no public access, gated entrance and exit. Cabin foundation and sauna pad in. Beautiful woods and views. mls #6002250 $179,900

amaZiNg home

Near trestle piNe lake. 3 BR, 2 BA home up the Gunflint Trail only a few minutes from many great lakes. The interior has an open bright feeling and is move-in ready! mls #6001793 $169,000

Qualit Y Devil traCk lake lot. Heavily wooded south shore lot with 150’ of shore. Easy shoreline, great views, excellent building sites. Power/phone. More shoreline available. mls #6001770 $149,900.

NeW! CasCaDe river propert Y A river runs through it! If you're looking for peace, quiet, and beautiful wilderness views, this could be the location for you. Off the beaten path, yet good access on Cascade Bluff Road. Good building sites on 25 acres overlooking the beautiful Cascade River and Sundling Creek. mls #6002440 $84,900

trout haveN. Six nicely wooded, westfacing lakelots on Hare Lake. Easy county road access. Power available. Beautiful views, nice shoreline, good trout fishing. starting at $82,000.

CoND omiNiums

maiNteNaNCe-Free oN l ake superior

Gorgeous, 3-level residential condo in Tofte. Beautiful views and quality finishes. Ideal floor plan has 3 beds and 3 baths. Private outdoor space on every level with two decks and a patio. Can be sold as a "turnkey residence" or "rental ready"-you decide.

mls #6002039 $339,000

Chateau leveauX 17.

This end unit has been totally remodeled, with a keen sense for what vacation renters are looking for. Open concept floor plan. Nice updates include hardwood and tiled floors, butcher block island, maintenance-free decking, and beautifully-decorated spaces. End unit with much privacy, panoramic Lake Superior views, and a rushing river outside extra south-facing windows. Sleeps 5. mls#6002366 $134,900

lake superior

CoND o/toFte. Great lake views from this 2 bedroom + loft unit with 2 baths, fireplace, balcony looking up the shore. Chateau LeVeaux offers many updated amenities, indoor pool, sauna, game room, and on-site manager. Facility is in excellent condition for easy and affordable lakefront living or vacation rental.

mls #6000473 $100,000.

Chateau leveauX 27. Lovely 2-bedroom unit plus loft; sleeps 6. Layout changed to open floor plan for improved use of space. Beautiful stone fireplace, with electric insert. Unit has solid vacation-rental history.

mls#6002445 $112,900

Chateau leveauX 1. gorgeous lower level unit walks out to Lake Superior and has been remodeled and refreshed with top-notch finishes like cork flooring, rainfall showerhead and a cool spa bathroom. Open concept floor plan with a seashore cottage feel and beautiful furnishings! mls#6002369 $88,000

Chateau leaveauX 2. Gorgeous lower level unit walks out to Lake Superior and has been remodeled and refreshed with top-notch finishes. Open concept floor plan, bamboo flooring, stainless steel appliances, and stunning log cabin walls in the bedroom. mls# 6002368 $88,000

homes & CaBiNs

NeW! Custom

Scan your smartphone here!

Built home/privaCY. Beautiful custom built home with many unique features. All custom cupboards, cabinets, and doors. Cathedral ceilings, sky lights. Too much to detailmust see! Extremely private location at end of deadend street adjoining state land. Running creek and some lake view. Large sunroom for all your plants. Basement could be set up as an apartment as it has a separate entry. New stainless kitchen appliances, new wood stove, new bath and new tile floor in guest bedroom. mls#6002309 $349,900 piNCushioN mouNtaiN reCreatioN area home. Close to town yet situated in the woods on ski and hiking trails. 3 BR, 2 BA, on 4.75 acres. Large living room with beautiful white tile fireplace and large dining room with Carlton Peak rock chimney. Remodeled kitchen; walk-out basement with sun room. Unique design, lots of wood and windows; several unique handmade doors. mls #6001099 $349,000

eNergY eFFiCieNt home. Earth sheltered home with over 55 acres and a creek. Conveniently located near Grand Marais and Gunflint Trail. 4 BR, 3 BA with a 2-car detached garage. Updated and remodeled with many custom features. This home is designed for the person who wants to live the rural, energy-efficient lifestyle. mls #6001251. $297,000

CouNtrY home iN hovlaND. Lovely 4 BR/3 BA home on 7.76 acres. Master suite with huge walk-in closet. Open living room with stone fireplace, formal dining room, big kitchen. Office/den opens into the attached garage. 32’ x 40’ pole building has storage for toys. Partially finished basement. Country living at its best! mls #6002258 $259,500.

graND marais home. Conveniently located in town with incredible views of Lake Superior. The home features 4 BR, 3 BA with a great layout and tons of storage space. Master BR includes a custom whirlpool tub, skylight, and a separate covered porch overlooking the harbor. The kitchen has been totally redone. Outside you will find a private patio area, heated drivethrough garage, gardens, flowerbeds and custom landscaping. mls #6002043 $247,000

NeW BeautiFul lutseN home 3- BR country home in Lutsen on 3.67 acres. Light filled living and dining rooms. Eat-in kitchen. 1 3/4 baths. Full basement. Sauna. New septic system. Artesian well. Double detached garage. Directly across from private Solbakken ski trails. Near downtown Lutsen and Lutsen Mountains Resort. Owner /agent. mls #6002162 $229,000

great graND marais home mls#6002364 $224,900

reCreatioNal Base

Camp. This great parcel in Tofte has two garage buildings waiting for your toys. Either one could easily become living space, with a second level on one of them. The exteriors are nicely finished. The two lots have room for a home with views of a dramatic creek gorge with waterfall and Lake Superior. It's a park-like setting with circle drive and walking paths around the property. Make this into your home away recreational retreat, or turn it into a permanent home site with plenty of garage space ready to go. mls #6002043 $179,900

remote outpost. The 2 bdr, home sits on 77 acres and features all the creature comforts with solar power and shower house, There’s a large 2-car garage with workshop plus 2 guest cabins that provide plenty of space for the whole family or group. Trails, solitude and wilderness – a perfect place to live remotely or as base-camp for your adventures. mls# 6001657 $174,900.

CasCaDe valleY retreat.

mls #6001829 $169,900

rustiC log, roiliNg river, moDerN ComForts. This log kit home sits on the scenic Flute Reed River in Hovland, just a short walk to Lake Superior's shore. The seasonal cabin has a great screen porch, modern kitchen and comes furnished with cabin-style furnishings and sportsman's décor. +/- 400' of dramatic river frontage. You can't beat the sound of a North Shore river! mls #6001631 $169,900.

NeW CaBiN WaitiNg For Your FiNishiNg touChes. mls #6002150 $154,000

starter home or Base Camp. mls #6000609 $54,900

CommerCial properties

NeW! BusiNess aND home. The Gunflint Motel in Grand Marais is a long-established business located just a block from the harbor. There are 5 large motel units with kitchens, plus a full lower apartment in the motel structure. All are in great shape. There is also a 4 bedroom, 2 bath owner's home that has had many recent updates and enhancements. It features hardwood floors, large deck, and great views of the harbor from the living room and master bedroom. The charming home provides a comfortable and private residence. mls#6002290 $419,000

CommerCial properties

speCtaCular piNCushioN BeD aND BreakFast

Updated 5 bedroom, 6 bath home on 14.8 acres. New 2 car garage and two decks. Direct ski in/ski out access to Pincushion Mountain ski trails. Frontage on Little Devils Track River is fabulous. Just minutes from Grand Marais. Resort/Commercial zoning. mls 6001839 $374,900.00

lutseN CommerCial hWY 61 FroNtage. Two acres, zoned GC. Location, visibility, nice forest, lake view. Includes a third (one-acre) parcel zoned residential. mls #6001891 $179,000.

NeW! CeDar grove BusiNess park lots. Cedar Grove Business Park is the ideal location for your existing business or new start-up! Conveniently located in Grand Marais, near the start of the iconic Gunflint Trail. Full infrastructure in place including paved streets, municipal sewer and water, electric and telephone. Call us today for a guided tour of this unique and affordable business park opportunity. prices start at $10,000

river/Creek FroNtage

DramatiC CasCaDe river propert Y. Twenty acres with 660’ on Cascade River. Good road, building site in cedar. Common property at spectacular waterfalls. Association, assessments. Seasonal access. mls #31332 $109,500.

10 aCres oN CouNt Y rD. #14. 330’ of bubbling creek runs through this beautifully wooded and very private parcel. Build sites near the water. mls #31619 $99,500.

stuNNiNg river aND piNCushioN trails. A unique opportunity for skiers and hikers. Trail easement runs through the property. The RC zoning allows for a resort/lodging type business. mls #6000298 $85,900.

40 aCres W/moNs Creek FroNtage. Easy road access. Good building sites. Mature trees. Deeded access to Lost Lake. mls #6002120 $79,900.

40 aC – lost lake retreats. Mons Creek flowage with great views and tons of wildlife. Private and secluded location. Includes deeded access to private lake. mls #6002121 $79,500. WooDs, Water & seClusioN. Nice ‘40’ with good timber and 1000’ frontage on Mons Creek. Great building site. Private deeded access to Lost Lake. mls #6002119 $69,900.

graND marais home site oN Creek. Nice wooded lot with City services: water, sewer and electric at site. Nice south exposure and frontage on Cedar Creek. mls #6001830 $63,900

l aND/BuilDiNg sites

gravel operatioN. Gravel pit, 160 acres, CUP in place. Includes: metal building 54 x 75, remaining crushed gravel, remaining loam stock piled (phs) and clay stock piled. Taxes and survey assessment to be pro-rated. mls#6002403 $300,000

piNCushioN trail parCel. This parcel has forest with direct access to the Pincushion Ski Trail system, Superior Hiking Trail and Devil Track River. Resort/ Commercial zoning mls #6000299 $214,900. over 217 aCres/Camp 20 roaD

Lovely open land with many ponds and streams. mls #31645 $216,700.

lost lake seClusioN 680' of private shoreline. One of only nine 20-acre lake lots on Lost Lake. Premier location with view of the length of the 70-acre lake. This is a private lake with no public access, gated entrance and exit. Cabin foundation and sauna pad in. Beautiful woods and views. mls#6002250 $179,900

vieWs From terraCe poiNt. Two lots for development at Terrace Point. One has townhome foundation in place. mls #6001069 $94,500 mls #6001100 $175,000

NeW! huNter's heaveN Proven Great Hunting Area - 80 acres of prime hunting land in Schroeder, MN. Rolling land with wonderful wildlife habitat including stream, beaver dam with large pond, and a good mixture of trees and low vegetation. Good access on Zeke's Trail which divides the two 40 acre parcels. mls #6002159 $142,500

large parCel With possiBle suBDivisioN poteNtial. Great Lake Superior views on the higher elevations. A small creek runs through part of the parcel. Priced below assessed value. mls #6001758 $129,000

maples, vieWs, privaCY. 85+ acres near Hovland. New road access, adjoining federal land. South exposure and views. Seasonal access. mls #6001633 $99,900.

5 aCres oN guNFliNt trail. A great lot with an amazing view overlooking Loon Lake. This lot includes legal access to Loon Lake for you to dock your boat, swim and relax. mls #6001601 $94,000

Five aCres Near toWN. Ready to build, Croftville location, Superior view, nice forest, RC/Residential zoning. mls #6001810 $80,000.

5 aCres Near Devil traCk lake. Deep wooded home site – just steps from Devil Track Lake, and DNR access. Enjoy the lake without the high taxes! mls #31534 $74,900.

Five WooDeD aCres. Surveyed. Septic and access road in place. Close to Devil Track Lake. Add'l 6 +/acre parcel avail. mls #6000318 $65,000.

10 aCres Near graND marais. Great piece of property located minutes from Grand Marais, on Pike Lake Rd. Seasonal view of Lake Superior. Many nice build sites. mls #6001078 $64,900

laND Near graND marais. Beautiful 5-ac lot just minutes from town. Meadow, power/phone. Driveway in. Great home site. mls #6001604 $59,900.

DramatiC superior vieW. Three high lots to choose from, southern exposure from the cliffs of Chicago Bay. mls #6001901 & 1902 $59,900

reaDY For You to BuilD.

This 5 acre lot is located only a few miles from town but offers great privacy. Nice slope, great trees and possibility for views of Lake Superior! The driveway is in place. mls#6001470 $54,900.

lake eFFeCt home site – hov-

laND. Great 4-acre home site. Close to Lake Superior, with some views, nice forest, easy access off of Highway 61 on shared driveway. A great place to call home or nestle-in with your recreational cabin. mls#6001463 $52,900.

WoNDerFul vieWs oF lake superior! 3 lots available; wooded and private. Minutes to ski hill, Superior National, Lutsen shops. Surveyed, year round access. mls #6000671 l ots start at $52,000. great CaBiN spot! Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with many great build sites. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Mons Creek meanders through the property border where it abuts state land. mls #6001242 $50,250.

reCreatioNal laND For hiDea-WaY. Nice 41 acre parcel with good slope to southern exposure. Easy access on Camp 20 Road. Deeded private lake rights to Lost Lake. A remote escape within easy reach, with lots of fun potential. mls #6002080 $46,500 home or CaBiN site - great lutseN lo CatioN. 4.09 acres, power and phone. Walk to landing on Christine Lake. Adjoins state land. mls #31546 $44,900.

hovlaND area parCel 40 Wooded acres with possible Lake Superior view. mls # 6002123 $39,900

reCreatioNal parCel iN hovlaND. 43+ acres close to the public landing on Tom Lake. Survey complete; may subdivide into two 20+ acre parcels. Road plowed year round in special taxing district. Owner/Agent. mls #6001471 $37,500 got remote? Can't beat this property for "off-thebeaten-path". If it's seclusion you seek, a place that's tough to get there, and worth the effort (or, the effort is half the fun), this wilderness 19-acre recreational property is for you. Surrounded by State & USFS lands. Hike in access from Devil Fish Lake. mls#6001477 $37,000.

MALCOLM CLARK, Broker

New Levels of Service

640 Beverly Street, Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7B 0B5 Canada

Phone (807) 344-3232

FAX: (807) 344-5400

Toll Free 1-888-837-6926

Cell: 807-473-7105

mclark@avistarealty.ca www.avistarealty.ca

2 well built log homes. Each with log sauna buildings, sand beaches, sheltered mooring area, more building sites and southern views of Scotch Lake. Surrounded by crown land and largest of only a few private parcels on this huge lake. Very secluded and

WATERFRONT - NEEBING

Lake Superior! A stunning 3.86 acre piece of property with 600 feet of shoreline with ultimate privacy and solitude at the very end of Memory Rd. Winterized, comfortable A-Frame cottage with year-round road access. Great views. 20 minutes from the border. $319,000.00 CDN

LAKE SUPERIOR LOTS

NICOL ISLAND ROSSPORT

Tremendous Lake Superior building sites. Lakefront and interior lots for sale with docking facilities. Causeway opened year round. Power and phone. Starting at $55,000 CDN

HARRY LAKE LODGE

The ultimate fly-in fishing resort. Totally outfitted with all the modern conveniences. 80 miles north of Thunder Bay. Incredible fishing! Main lodge, beach house with sauna and hot tub. Diesel generator, fish cleaning house, boats, motors. Harry Lake is a very large lake with no road access and Harry Lake resort is the only improvement. $295,000 CDN

Little Trout Bay, 20 minutes north of the Minnesota/Ontario border, 3 large estatesized lots, very sheltered with southern exposure. Tremendous views. Power and telephone available. Priced beginning at USD$199,000

CATCHLIGHT CATCHLIGHT

Skillet Clubtail dragonfly

I always see the empty exoskeletons around rocks and our boat dock at the lake. But one morning, early, several nymphs begin crawling up the dock from the water, then stop. After a short period, their backs crack open and an adult dragonfly slowly emerges. I watch and take some photos as this “new beginning” seems to go on forever. I have never seen this process before, but always wondered seeing the exoskeletons around. In reality, it’s easy to miss, since it took them usually 10 minutes or less to fly away, but I was at the right place at the right time.—Chris Gibbs

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