Northern Wilds

Canoe Paths and a Soggy Bottom Boy

Drive along Highway 61 on an early June morning and you’ll encounter adventurers of every stripe. You’ll likely see a “pack” of motorcyclists who are making their bucket-list Wolf’s Head Run around Lake Superior. Next you may pass a hiker with a heavy backpack walking along the roadside after coming off an extended jaunt on the Superior Hiking Trail. Then comes a small caravan of pickups and SUVs towing boats to Canada for a fishing vacation. Along the highway shoulder are joggers, bikers, dog-walkers and roller-bladers. In the oncoming lane are vehicles topped with kayaks, mountain bikes and surfboards. And of course there will be canoes.

After all, the Northern Wilds is canoe country, which is the theme of our June issue. Nowhere else can you find such a vast network of interconnected waterways best traversed with a canoe. You can launch from the Gunflint Trail or Ely, then paddle and portage all the way to Hudson Bay. Most folks take less ambitious adventures, embarking on canoe trips that range from overnight to a couple of weeks in length. Quite simply, that’s as much time as most of us can afford to spend away from the real world.

At Northern Wilds, we are fortunate to know writers who have extensive wilderness experience. Michael Furtman and his wife, Mary Jo, have been just about everywhere in the BWCAW and Quetico. They spent a summer working as wilderness rangers; documented in Mike’s fine book “A Season for Wilderness.” Erin Altemus and her husband, Matt Schmidt, have paddled all of the northern rivers leading to Hudson Bay. Erin also led extended canoe trips for Camp Menogyn on the Gunflint Trail. Ada Igoe grew up in Grand Marais and on the Gunflint Trail, where she and her husband now own Tuscarora Lodge and Outfitters. Rob Drieslein places a priority on taking his family on wilderness canoe trips.

We asked these four writers to write short profiles about the places they love: the western Boundary Waters from Ely, the eastern Boundary Waters from the Gunflint Trail, and Quetico and Wabakimi provincial parks. While the four canoeing areas have much in common, each offers a distinctly different experience. Our writers eloquently describe what paddlers can expect to find in each of these places.

June is an excellent time to be in the canoe country… with one tiny caveat: mosquitoes. Kim Falter takes a look at some of the insect repellents on the market. While some folks worry about spraying a chemical on their skin to keep biting insects at bay, Kim discusses how to safely apply repellents. But the easiest way to avoid the bugs is to go inside, which is what Maren Webb does as she tells us about restaurants along the Gunflint Trail.

For one story in this issue, we need to set the record straight. Gord Ellis blames the co-publisher of this pub

lication and his father as the reason he once fell out of a canoe. While we may have witnessed this aquatic event, neither of us had anything to do with Gord becoming a soggy-bottomed boy…honest. While Gord’s big splash is in a category of its own, you’ll find lots of fun stories in this issue of Northern Wilds. We hope you find time during this adventurous month to read them.—Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt

PUBLISHERS

Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt

EDITORIAL

Shawn Perich, Editor, editor@northernwilds.com

Breana Roy, Assistant Editor breana@northernwilds.com

Carin Gulstrand, Proofing carin@northernwilds.com

ADVERTISING

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

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com

Drew Johnson • drew@northernwilds.com

OFFICE

Roseanne Cooley • billing@northernwilds.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Altemus, Elle Andra-Warner, Eric Chandler, Rob Drieslein, Gord Ellis, Kim Falter, Casey Fitchett, Joe Friedrichs, Michael Furtman, Ada Igoe, Deane Morrison, Julia Prinselaar, Javier Serna, Kathy Toivonen, Maren Webb

Copyright 2016 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc.

Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $28 per year or $52 for 2 years U.S. 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,

DCT launches at Lutsen

LUTSEN—In a few weeks, a swarm of neon yellow-green jerseys will fill the start chute at the Lutsen 99er mountain bike race. Don’t be alarmed. It’s the riders of the Duluth Composite Team (DCT). This team of high school mountain bike racers will be launching its 2016 season at the event on June 25.

Brian Hayden, DCT head coach, has been at the helm since the team began in 2013. The team had 23 riders and finished third overall in the state of Minnesota their first year. The team grew to 30 riders in 2014 and had 43 last year. Along with rapid growth, the team has had rapid success. After a bronze placing in the team’s first year, the team was the Division I Minnesota State Champions in both 2014 and 2015. Not bad for a team just entering its fourth season this year.

“Racing at Lutsen is a great way to kick off the season,” said Hayden. “We first came up to the 99er in 2013 before we even had a team. Samuel [Hayden’s son] and I raced that summer before the team got started in August. The 99er race has been a strong supporter of the Minnesota High School Cycling League.”

Hayden highlighted one big piece of community support that the DCT riders received last year. The local Subaru dealer generously put cash horsepower into the team. “Peter Spencer, director of the 99er, wanted to give support to young riders. He put us in touch with Miller Hill Subaru so they could be a local component associated with the race. Miller Hill Subaru helped with costs for DCT riders last year. Once again, they came forward this year and are helping pay registration costs for our high school riders.”

Hayden said there were around 20 kids at last year’s races in Lutsen. About two thirds of the kids did the 39er and the rest did the 19er.

“The 99er is key for an early season target,” said Hayden. “We’re excited to get out there. It gives them a goal.”

The growth of DCT is on par with the growth of the sport as a whole in the state. Josh Kleve, director of the Minnesota High School Cycling League, said that the league has grown at a 40 percent pace. The league started in Minnesota in 2012 with 16 teams and 151 riders.

“Last year, we had 753 riders. Our growth is faster than the level of the 20 leagues nationwide. Last year we were the fifth largest league in the nation. If growth continues at this rate, we should see numbers in the 900’s this year,” said Kleve. “That would make Minnesota the second or third largest league.”

When asked about a “threepeat” as Division 1 State Champions, Hayden said, “I’m optimistic. We have a strong chance.”

The points system is complex, but the simplest version is this: Every rider counts. Also, boys and girls results are mixed to hand out the highest amount of points

possible. In certain scenarios, more girl results may be included than boys to determine the best score for the team.

“The league is getting more competitive as we grow,” said Hayden. “Hopkins and Edina are closing the gap. They may even be scoring more with their girls’ team. That seems to be their advantage. I wish we could add more girls to our team and have more depth there. We should have four boys in the varsity field this year. Potentially we could have 10 total riders going for varsity points.”

The national governing body for high school mountain bike racing is the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) with roots in northern California in the early 2000s. The league started with just a handful of teams across the country in 2009. NICA isn’t just about racing. The Five Core Values are Inclusivity, Equality, Strong Body, Strong Mind and Strong Character. The points system of the league rewards every single rider with points. Every rider counts. Everyone rides. There are no tryouts. Riders are students first and are taught to respect others, work hard and play fair. The values of the league stress that mountain biking is a life sport.

Hayden was quick to point out that DCT is focused on developing more than

just racers, saying, “Our kids will be volunteering at the Kraus Anderson Bike Festival in Duluth. They’ll also be working at the Continental Bike Swap in Duluth in April that benefits the United Way. And like last year, they’ll be out helping COGGS (Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores) on a few trail projects. Personal development of the kids is huge. It’s a big priority for us.”

The race schedule for Minnesota will be slightly different this year. Last year, there were five total races. This year, there will be five regular season races, one of which can be an “off” week for each team. A two-day state championship event will cap the season in Mankato. This new season format will allow for the growing number of riders in the Minnesota league.

During the first four seasons, all the races took place between 100 and 250 miles away from Duluth. 2016 will mark the first year one of the regular season races will be in Duluth. The team is working hard with Spirit Mountain and the City of Duluth to develop a suitable racecourse at the ski area for the high school racers.

“We’re excited to race on home turf. Our race at Spirit Mountain is in the development stage. It will only get better. It will come with time and we’re headed in the right direction,” said Hayden.

Regarding the Duluth race, Kleve pointed out that this is a statewide sport with teams being developed in Bemidji and Grand Marais.

“We’re excited to be coming to Duluth,” he said. “We’re excited about the levels of community support that go with our venues around the state. We hope to see this race on the calendar for years to come.” —Eric Chandler

Lake County bike trails

TWO HARBORS—Lake County has developed a master plan to create a mountain bike trail system. The trails would be located primarily on county-owned land in southern Lake County. Initial sites considered include the ridge north of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, county lands on the Alger Grade and Reeves Road, and the Lake County Demonstration Forest Area. The projected timeline for building a 100-mile trail network is 10 years. The county is working with the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission on the planning process.—Shawn Perich

Sophie Farrow races at Mankato. | ERIC CHANDLER

Invasive species

GRAND MARAIS—Spotted knapweed. Sea lamprey. Emerald ash borer. What do all three have in common? They’re all invasive species. And they’re all coming, or have already arrived, to the Northern Wilds.

Invasive species can travel in many forms, show up in a variety of sizes and move through air, on land or via water. Regardless of how an invasive species spreads, they often share the same disturbing traits and tendency to destroy valuable habitat.

“Along the North Shore, invasive species are anything that’s not native and causes economic or ecological harm,” said Amanda Weberg, the Cook County aquatic invasive species coordinator.

For Weberg, invasive species are serious business. That makes sense when one considers water covers 1,887 square miles (57 percent) of the 3,340 square miles in Cook County. Weberg’s primary role as the AIS coordinator for the county is to educate the public about how destructive invasive species can be in some of the most treasured land and water in Minnesota.

“There are some invasive species that are transported by birds or wind, but it’s pretty minuscule,” Weberg said. “Humans are really the ones making invasives spread faster than they normally would.”

There are presently two aquatic invasive species in Cook County and the northern tip of Lake County that will be extremely difficult to eradicate, according to Weberg. The two aquatic invaders are spiny water fleas and rusty crayfish. The spiny water flea has found its way to some of the region’s most pristine lakes, including Clearwater Lake up the Gunflint Trail. Removing the pesky “flea” from lakes such as Clearwater would involve a complete kill of everything living in the lake, Weberg said, a move that is simply not feasible. Rather, halting the spread of the invasive is the key to limiting potential harm to other Gunflint Trail lakes and beyond.

“It’s going to be about prevention through education,” Weberg said, “and just making sure people don’t continue to bring them in from elsewhere.”

When it comes to Lake Superior, the list of non-native species sits at more than 100, though a non-native is not necessarily the same as an invasive species. However, certainly there are unwanted species wreaking havoc in the big lake, including the ghoulish-looking sea lamprey. Sea lamprey have an eel-like body and a mouth which features a dozen circular rows of sharp teeth. Sea lamprey have a nasty history that includes devastating Lake Superior’s lake trout population. Furthermore, sea lamprey—as with many other invasive species—are expensive to eradicate or even control. According to the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, the United States spends about $14 million a year on lamprey control. Canada spends about $7 million. However, the story does not end with aquatic invaders when it comes to invasive species entering the Northern Wilds.

In the fall of 2015, emerald ash borer, the invasive insect currently threatening millions of acres of Minnesota forests in the southern part of the state, was discovered in Duluth.

Mark Abrahamson, an entomologist for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, said the pesky bug will almost certainly continue its advance along the North Shore in the coming years.

“Along Lake Superior emerald ash borer will probably do just fine all the way along Highway 61 up to Canada,” he said.

The unknown for the emerald ash borer as it pertains to the North Woods is how the insect will fare on inland forests. Gary Swanson, a silviculturist for Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota, said emerald ash borers can change the configuration of the forest very quickly, but that it’s not certain if the bug can survive the harsh winters that historically visit the inland forests of northern Minnesota, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

“For northern Minnesota, it’s kind of a mixed bag,” Swanson said about the advance of emerald ash borer. “Along the big

lake, yeah, it’s going to spread and probably have a serious impact. And inland, the threat is there, but nobody is sure about how things will play out.”

If indeed the emerald ash borer—or any invasive species, for that matter—does reach the BWCAW, there will be little that can be done from the perspective of forest management. Because the BWCAW is managed as wildreness, active management is not allowed.

When it comes to invasive species, education and understanding of how to prevent their continued spread seems to be a key aspect for at least slowing momentum. Everyone who enjoys the area can participate in this role.

“You should care about invasive species along the North Shore,” Weberg said, “because you come here and you live here for its clean and pristine waters and you want to keep it that way for future generations.”—Joe Friedrichs

Amanda Weberg checks for invasive species on Devil Track Lake near Grand Marais. | SUBMITTED

Slow progress for Gitchi-Gami bike trail

GRAND MARAIS—For Bill Blank, the most challenging aspect of building a non-motorized, multi-purpose trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior has nothing to do with pouring asphalt or finding outdoor enthusiasts to visit the region.

Rather, as with many things snared in the perpetual state of planning, the rate of completion comes down to mathematics and dollars.

“The easiest part is the construction once we get funding and get started,” said Blank, president of the Gitchi-Gami Trail Association (GGTA). “It’s the engineering and getting the money in place that can take three to five years or more to accomplish.”

The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is slated to be an 89-mile trail between Two Harbors and Grand Marais. As of May 2016, some 30-miles of the trail are complete—which essentially means paved in this case—including a 14-mile section between Gooseberry Falls and Beaver Bay. Zig-zagging its way along Minnesota’s North Shore, the trail is touted as a non-motorized means to explore the Lake Superior shoreline without having to be encased inside an automobile.

“What we have is a very scenic trail that connects some of the most beautiful state parks and landscape in all of Minnesota,” Blank said.

Blank said the GGTA, which is a nonprofit group formed entirely of volunteers who work with state and area organizations to create and maintain the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, remain focused on completing the trail. However, Blank said the group and its supporters acknowledge and understand the reality of the economics involved with connecting all 89 miles of the trail.

Regardless of what stage of development the trail is in, it does not lack for attention. Depending on the season, it’s not uncommon to see cyclists, joggers, cross-country skiers or walkers taking in a view of Lake Superior on the trail. To highlight the beauty the trail already offers, in the summer of 2015 USA Today named the Gitchi-Gami State Trail one of the 10 best bike rides near water in the nation.

Michelle Pierson, a project assistant for the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission and executive director of the GGTA, said the word “connection” is key when describing the Gitchi-Gami Trail.

“It connects folks to some pretty amazing views of our great lake, some great beach access points and amazing historical resources,” she said. “The trail also connects folks who stay at several of our state parks to resources in communities, including restaurants, gift shops, hiking trails and more.”

Anne McKinsey, a member of the GGTA, said when the trail was first conceived, it promised to fill a void that had long been apparent for both locals and tourists who enjoy biking, hiking or simply being outdoors along the Highway 61 corridor.

“Although the original plan would have

had the trail finished by now, it’s still satisfying to see how much people enjoy using this premiere, non-motorized recreational trail as each segment is added,” she said. “Tourism is big business on the North Shore, and the lack of accessible paved trail for bicycling and walking has been a missing amenity found in most other popular travel destinations statewide.”

As the GGTA waits to secure funding to complete the trail, several-million dollars have already been secured for forthcoming projects and expansion, Blank said. This includes $1.2 million for a stretch of

the trail near Tofte. Blank supported the notion that no major construction was undertaken in 2014 or 2015 due to lack of funding, but long-awaited state matching funds for federal grants included in the state bonding last year mean that new construction could begin in the Grand Marais area in 2016.

As is, no date is set for when the Gitchi-Gami State Trail will be complete. The GGTA was formed 20 years ago and the vision of that group remains. Using those ideas, the first pavement for the actual trail was laid to the earth about 15 years

ago. Blank said if the trail is complete by 2026 “that would be outstanding.” But, until all the funding to complete the project is secure, it remains challenging to predict when the 89-mile trail will be entirely paved and connected. Meanwhile, if it continues to take an average of two miles each year to finish, Blank said the trail and all those who made it possible will, at the very least, have brought positive changes to the Northern Wilds.

“What we’ve done, we’re proud of,” he said.—Joe Friedrichs

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Chad Pierson enjoys a sunny day on the Gitchi-Gami Trail. | SUBMITTED

Brighter future for Split Rock Lighthouse

TWO HARBORS—With more than 150,000 visitors a year, Split Rock Lighthouse is in need of a plan for future growth that doesn’t compromise the historic integrity of the site.

Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken, along with Representative Rick Nolan, recently announced a $68,000 Maritime Heritage Program grant that will allow for the creation of a cultural landscape report (CLR) to address this preservation issue. The Minnesota Historical Society, which operates the lighthouse, will match the grant.

Constructed between 1909 and 1910, Split Rock light station is exceptional among Great Lakes light stations for being designed as a single, cohesive complex, which remains largely intact today. Because of its national significance to the development of American commerce and transportation on the Great Lakes, Split Rock light station earned National Historic Landmark status in 2011.

Over the years, the Coast Guard, the Minnesota DNR, and the Minnesota Historical Society, have made moderate improvements to accommodate larger crowds, including new sidewalks, signs and barriers, and the construction of a visitor center.

Moving forward, the CLR will provide a long-term management strategy for the historic site as well as guide immediate plans for ADA accessibility upgrades.

The National Park Service, in partnership with the Maritime Administration, provides Maritime Heritage grants to preserve sites and objects related to our nation’s maritime history.

Visit www.mnhs.org for more info.

Outdoor skills program offered for families along the Gunflint Trail

GUNFLINT TRAIL—A three-day outdoors skills program for families with teens and college-age kids will be offered this summer through the Minnesota DNR at Gunflint Lodge on the Gunflint Trail. Designed to provide introductory experiences, this program includes sessions on fishing, canoeing, outdoor survival skills and other activities, including horseback riding and zip-lining.

“Minnesota’s outdoors has so much to offer,” said Linda Bylander, DNR Becoming an Outdoors Woman coordinator. “This program aims to give families the skills they need to enjoy the state’s lakes, forests and more.”

Bylander said the focus on older youth and young adults reflects the fact that many young adults do not fish or hunt, and as a result, their children are less likely to as well. “Families that learn skills together tend to apply them together in the future,” she said.

The program from Friday, June 24, to Monday, June 27, is based at Gunflint Lodge. Costs for the program range from $600 to $700 per family and registration is required. Each family will stay in a deluxe cabin at the lodge. For more information or to register, contact Bylander at linda. bylander@state.mn.us or 218-203-4347

Pavilion for Silver Creek

SILVER CREEK—The Town of Silver Creek is converting their old machine shed into a music pavilion. This pavilion will be available for special events, such as wedding receptions, family reunions or musical events. It will feature a stage and a dance floor. The annual Silver Creek International Ukulele Carnival is the catalyst for this music pavilion. The once little ukulele celebration has grown each year and has outgrown the Silver Creek Town Hall.

Upon presenting this dilemma to one of the Town of Silver Creek board members, he made it his mission to keep the carnival in Silver Creek. Mr. Greg Hull is donating

the lumber for this remodeling project and the Town of Silver Creek employees will provide the construction skills. However, they still need people to help complete the project. Those with carpentry skills and those willing provide labor can help this project get completed.

The Two Harbors Ukulele Group needs your help on June 11 to make this music pavilion a reality. Help is still needed to build the stage, dance floor and install some half log siding on the building. Visit www.twoharborsukulelegroup.com for more information.

Forestry workshop for landowners A busy month for tennis

TWO HARBORS—The North Shore Forest Collaborative (NSFC) is hosting a free workshop and spring meeting on Friday, June 10 at the Two Harbors Community Center at 417 South Avenue. The Landowner Workshop will be held from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. and will be preceded by a potluck lunch. The purpose of the workshop is to help landowners along the Lake Superior North Shore manage and restore their lands, including providing assistance with tree planting and controlling invasive species on their property.

The featured speaker is Brian Schwingle, Tree and Insect Disease Specialist with the Minnesota DNR. Brian will present information about tree insects and diseases relevant to the North Shore, including spruce

budworm, birch and white pine health, the emerald ash borer and forest tent caterpillar. He will be available for questions following the presentation.

Series of brief presentations will include: Introduction to Native Plant Communities, Private Forest Landowner assistance through the Natural Resource Conservation Service, Stewardship Plans and assistance through the DNR, Working with your Soil and Water Conservation District, Extension Service programs for forestland owners and Helping your home survive a wildfire. In addition to the presentations, several of the agencies and organizations will have displays highlighting their assistance programs and will be on hand to talk one-on-one with landowners and answer questions.

“A large percent of the lands along the north shore and within three miles of Lake Superior are privately owned, and many landowners are concerned with the dying birch and other trees on their lands” said NSFC coordinator Duane Lula. “This workshop is an opportunity for those landowners to better understand their property and receive help on ways to restore their forestland as well as how to manage their land to meet their future objectives.”

For more information on restoring the North Shore forest and the North Shore Forest Collaborative, visit the website at www.northshoreforest.org

New outdoor volunteer program begins

TOFTE—The Northwoods Volunteer Connection will begin its first projects in BWCAW this summer. Executive director Laurel Woods says the nonprofit organization works in partnership with local natural resources agencies to connect volunteers with projects on public land in Lake and Cook counties. Current work is focused on the Superior National Forest. The organization has received funding from the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation, the National Forest Foundation, the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance and Tread Lightly! Office space at the Tofte Ranger Station is provided through an agreement with the Superior National Forest.

Woods said three projects are scheduled for this summer in the BWCAW. The first, July 13-17, is to restore the Lizz/Caribou lakes portage in the Gunflint District. Volunteers will place rock bars and logs in boggy, muddy stretch of the trail. The second will occur in the Kawishiwi Ranger District Aug. 25-30, where a crew will clear downed trees and brush from the Kekekabic Trail between Parent and Moiyaka lakes. A boardwalk repair on the Big Moose/Cummings lake portage in the LaCroix Ranger District is scheduled for Sept 12-16.

Woods said the organization provides tents and cooking equipment for the

crews and the U.S. Forest Service provides canoes and hand tools. The volunteer work will be overseen by USFS wilderness rangers. There is a charge for wilderness trips of $10/day for adults and $5/day for students.

Tentatively are one-day projects such as invasive plant control, spotted knapweed pulling and trash cleanup along trails. Anyone can volunteer, although persons under 18 should be accompanied by a parent. For more information about the work trips and other volunteer activities in the area, visit www.mnnvc.com.

—Shawn Perich

GRAND MARAIS—The Cook County Tennis Association has a number of events and activities this month. On June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. is “Rally the Family” (formerly known as the CCTA Block Party) at the Cook County Public Tennis Courts in Grand Marais. The event features fun tennis activities for all levels of players; youth, adults and families. A free BBQ along with prizes and information on summer programs will be provided by the CCTA. An Adult doubles mixer follows the event.

On June 27-29 is the CCTA/YMCA Youth Tennis Camp, a three-day camp for 4th grade to high school aged youth put on by instructor from Travel Tennis Camps. Some tennis experience is recommended. Sign up through the YMCA. Entry fee required.

Carl Johnson will lead a youth tennis program for ages 10-14 from mid-June until mid-July on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. This will be an opportunity for young people of both genders to learn and improve their skills. The program is through the YMCA and a fee is required. Johnson also is offering free tennis clinics this summer 10 a.m. on Mondays and at 6 p.m. Wednesdays.

Chik-Wauk opens Nature Center

SAGANAGA LAKE—Visitors to the Gunflint Trail’s ChikWauk Museum will discover a new Nature Center.

“It will be the first building on the left as people drive in,” says director Bonnie Schutt.

The kid-friendly facility will have six stations where children learn about the natural history of the Gunflint Trail. Topics at the stations are: water, weather, birds, mammals, insects and plants. Each station will have an activity for children to complete. Upon doing so, they will receive a special badge. Kids will also have an opportunity to try out north woods clothing, dressing up as a lumberjack, a voyageur or a wildland fire fighter.

While the museum is focused on the history and the people of the Gunflint Trail, the focus of the Nature Center is to encourage people to get outside. To facilitate doing so, the center will have bins where visitors can borrow binoculars and birding books to use while walking Chik-Wauk’s nature trails.

“We want our visitors to be comfortable with exploring nature, getting dirty and having fun,” Schutt said.

The centerpiece of the Nature Center is a sculpture of a mother loon diving beneath the surface while her babies are swimming, created by Keith Morris of Grand Marais. The Grand Opening for the Nature Center is July 3 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with free admission for the day.

A variety of presentations and special activities are planned through the summer. At the Nature Center, Tuesdays from June 21-Aug. 16 are Kid’s Day with hands-on activities, as well as stories, hikes, journal-making and craft projects. A parent or guardian must accompany children. From 2-3 p.m. on Tuesdays from June 28-Aug. 16, U.S. Forest Service naturalists will present north woods topics. Gunflint nature presentations will occur

Fridays, July 1-Aug. 5 from 2-3 p.m. Special presentations will occur on Sundays at 2 p.m.

The Gunflint Trail Historical Society will host a shrimp boil and bake at the Seagull Lake Community Center on Sunday, June 12 at 4 p.m. Also on the menu are boiled rusty crayfish prepared by Cook County invasive species coordinator Amanda Weberg. On Monday, June 13, at 1 p.m., Steve Elliot, director of the Minnesota Historical Society will speak at the Seagull Lake Community Center about the underwater exploration of the Granite River in the 1960s during the GTHS membership meeting that begins at 1 p.m.

Beginning May 28, the museum is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with the Nature Center open daily from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children 5-18 and children 4 and under free.—Shawn Perich

The Nature Center has six stations where chiildren learn the natural history of the area. | SUBMITTED

Lake sturgeon studied in St. Louis River

DULUTH—After years of clean water improvements, stocking and habitat projects, lake sturgeon are returning to the St. Louis River in larger numbers.

Fisheries staff at the Minnesota DNR are embarking on a new research project to study their growing numbers and learn more about how these long-lived, native species use the river and Lake Superior throughout the year.

Sturgeon sampled in the St. Louis River are being fitted with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, which will allow fisheries staff to monitor their growth. Roughly the size of a wild rice kernel, PIT tags are inserted under the skin of each sturgeon caught and are not noticeable to anglers, but can be read by a special wand-style reader if the fish is later caught by fisheries survey crews. By recording the lengths and weights of fish at the initial and later captures, fisheries biologists can chart the growth of individual fish over time and begin to estimate the population size.

The research project is being accomplished through a partnership with The Nature Conservancy, Wisconsin DNR, and Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Larger sturgeon also will be implanted with one of 60 acoustic transmitters. These special transmitters are read by a series of automated receivers located throughout the lower stretches of the river and near the entries to Lake Superior. The receivers detect the transmitters in the fish and tell researchers how sturgeon use various habitats and move throughout the river and lake during the year.

Funding for 200 PIT tags and five readers was provided by The Nature Conservancy, in part, by a grant from the Biodiversity Fund of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. The Minnesota DNR funded the acoustic tags and receivers.

“Sturgeon recovery has come a long way, but we have more to learn about their movements in the St. Louis River and the big lake,” said research project lead Anna Varian. “Habitat restoration work below the Fond du Lac dam has improved spawning grounds for sturgeon, and we’re learning quite a bit about their time in the

river. But we also want to know how these fish move through other habitats and how far they travel into Lake Superior.”

Research data are shared between the Wisconsin DNR, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, all of which are doing similar tagging work in waters of Lake Superior. Fish movement throughout management areas and jurisdictions will help agencies coordinate harvest and protections to ensure continued recovery.

While sturgeon are often thought of as dinosaur-like fish that have been around forever, their re-established presence in the St. Louis River is relatively new. Overharvest and pollution extirpated the species, which are slow to mature, highly dependent on good water quality and

require specific spawning habitat. Water-quality improvements directly linked to the Clean Water Act of 1972, habitat improvements linked to establishment of the St. Louis River Area of Concern in 1983, and harvest protections set the stage for sturgeon restoration and survival.

Sturgeon were reintroduced by stocking efforts from 1983 to 2000, and have made a slow, but steady comeback. Natural reproduction was first documented in the river in 2011. The lag in time was expected since sturgeon reach reproductive maturity around age 17 for males, and age 26 for females – but may only spawn every three to five years. Previously stocked fish are just now reaching reproductive maturity in larger numbers, so biologists expect to see increases in natural reproduction in the coming years.

Jeramy Pinkerton and Anna Varian of DNR fisheries hold the largest sturgeon ever sampled in the St. Louis River. The sturgeon, 65 inches long and about 53 pounds, was captured April 20, implanted with an acoustic transmitter and PIT tag and released. | SUBMITTED

WILDFLOWERS

While spring may have long sprung elsewhere, here in the north woods, the flowers are finally in bloom. The North Shore is home to many beautiful and unique wildflowers. While some of these can be found everywhere, such as purple, pink and white lupins blooming along every ditch, others are harder to find, like the carnivorous sundew and pitcher plant, or the mysterious and delicate Indian pipe. This month, we put together a montage of our favorite wildflowers found in the Northern Wilds.—Breana Roy

Bunchberry

BRYAN HANSEL

Wild rose | PAUL SUNDBERG

SUNDBERG

Fireweed | THOMAS SPENCE

Blanket flower | EARL ORF

Hepatica | RADIANT SPIRIT GALLERY

Marsh marigolds | PAUL SUNDBERG

Pitcher plant | PAUL SUNDBERG

Blue flag iris | BRYAN HANSEL

Purple prairie clover | SANDY UPDYKE

Sundew | JAMES SMEDLEY

The Trowbridge Island Lighthouse is under lease to Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior Inc.

[LEFT] Perched on the break wall, the Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse is an iconic feature on Thunder Bay’s waterfront, marking the entrance to Thunder Bay Harbour.

[ABOVE] The Trowbridge Island Lighthouse is located near Sleeping Giant Provincial Park and Silver Islet.

Lighthouse Adventuring on Lake Superior’s Canadian North Shore

story and photos By Elle Andra - Warner

Looking for something different to do this summer? How about going on a Lake Superior adventure at a Canadian lighthouse where you can go for nature walks, hiking, rock collecting, climbing a lighthouse tower, bird-watching, visiting an art gallery or even overnight in a guest house? You can do all that and more at the Porphyry Island Lighthouse, thanks to hard work of the Canadian Lighthouses of Lake Superior Inc. (CLLS), a non-profit charitable organization that restores, maintains and promotes lighthouses on Lake Superior’s North Shore. Porphyry Island Lighthouse is located on the eastern side of Black Bay Peninsula, 40 kilometres east of Thunder Bay.

CLLS was formed to save and restore the lake’s lighthouses after the Canadian government in 2010 declared 970 active and inactive lighthouses surplus across Canada. Some were designated heritage structures and community groups were invited to assume control and maintenance of the properties.

CLLS now leases three lighthouses from Canada’s Department of Fisheries & Oceans: Porphyry Island, Number 10 (Shaganash) and Trowbridge. Negotiations are continuing for the Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse. Porphyry Island Lighthouse and structures, including the lighthouse keeper’s house, have been restored, the grounds cleared and trails opened. Interpretive programs are available and the site is staffed in the summer. The other two lighthouse sites are still works-in-progress.

Summer operations at Porphyry run from July 3 to September 5, though the site is open to the public until October 15. And there’s plenty of events and activities going on this summer. From July 23-30, the Thunder Bay Yacht Club will host their annual week-long SUNORA (Superior North Shore Regatta) for sail and powerboats. The group will sail to Rossport over several days and return to spend a night at Porphyry on July 29. Then, a few weeks later on August 13-14, the popular annual Porphyry Island Pan-Superior Rendezvous will bring in boaters from around the lake to the island for a day of BBQ, bonfires, hikes and tours.

Adding to this year’s visitor experience is the opening in the Fog Alarm Building of the Gordon Graham Art Gallery, named after the last lighthouse keeper (1979-1988) who also happens to be an award-winning photographer. Visitors can view Gordon Graham’s photography of Lake Superior in the Gallery, as well as see the CBC documentary “Heartland” (1980) about the Graham family. Also, the first artist-in-residence for CLLS will be on site for a few weeks, creating and talking to visitors about their work.

This summer, Canada’s famous “Red Chairs” are arriving. Parks Canada has recognized Porphyry Island as a special place to include in their Red Chair National Campaign and will be installing two of their iconic Adirondack Red Chairs at the point on Porphyry Island, the perfect spot to enjoy the view of the Sleeping Giant. (Some travellers now tour Canada doing ‘selfies’ sitting on Red Chairs at these

special sites.) In addition, Parks Canada and the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area are providing the site with interpretive panels to assist visitors in understanding lighthouses, their purpose, the lives of keepers and some of the disjunct arctic alpine plants found on the island.

Everyone is welcomed for free on Porphyry, though there is a charge for overnight stays at the guest house. During last year’s five weeks of operation, there were 266 visitors. Whether by sail, motorboat, kayak, canoe or helicopter, there are many options on how to get to the island which is only accessible by water and air. The CLLS website www.clls.ca has information about the Transport Canada-approved charters available with Sail Superior, Archie’s Fishing Charter or Wisk Air Helicopters.

CLLS continues to build and expand the Lake Superior Lighthouse Trail as an exciting adventure destination, available to the public. With the possibility of opening up Thunder Bay Main Lighthouse on the break wall and joining the three lighthouses (Porphyry, Number 10 and Trowbridge) currently operated by the group, Thunder Bay will become the “Gateway to the Lighthouse Trail.”

By Breana Roy

CANOE COUNTRY

Ahh, June, my favorite month. The air is warming up, the snow has melted (or most of it anyways), school is out and summer is right around the corner. Now is the time to pack a lunch and jump (or carefully step) into a canoe. Plan a BWCAW adventure, a day trip, or simply paddle around a nearby lake for a few hours. Whatever you choose, you best go now before the incessant buzzing of mosquitos grows into a full-fledged choir. On second thought, you probably better keep some bug spray nearby.

[ABOVE] Thunder Bay artist Brian Holden depicts a perfect Canoe Country scene, titled “Canoe Trip.” | BRIAN HOLDEN

[LEFT] Chris Gilbertson hand crafts canoe paddles, while Zak Fellman and Karen Fellman hand paint the paddles, which come from Sanborn Canoe Co. This particular paddle design can be found at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery in Lutsen. | KAH-NEETAH GALLERY

Duluth artist Anne Gorham creates images with beach glass from Lake Superior. Gorham, who spends hours scouring beaches with her kids, has been hunting for beach glass (also known as mermaid tears), since she was a child. You can find more at www.lakesuperiorbeachglass.com and by following her on Instagram. Her username is @lakesuperior_beachglass. | ANNE GORHAM

[ABOVE] Printmaker Kari Vick likes to create art with a storytelling capability, such as “Book Trout,” shown here. | KARI VICK

[LEFT] Jane Dierberger of Stillwater created a series of four paintings, based on the famous poem “The Song of the Hiawatha.” This print, titled “Hiawatha-The Canoe” can be found at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery in Lutsen. | JANE DIERBERGER

PARK POINT ART FAIR

This month, the 46th annual Park Point Art Fair will be held June 25-26 in Duluth. The festival features 120 juried artists from the Midwest and beyond, displaying and selling their artwork, such as clay, fiber, glass, painting, jewelry, photography, woodwork, printmaking and sculpture. There will be food vendors, live music and entertainment, art demos, family art activities and more. The festival will run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the sandy shores of Park Point. Parking and admission is free.

Visit www.parkpointartfair.org for more info.

[ABOVE] Author, illustrator, and cartoonist Chris Monroe will feature her works, such as this oil pastel titled, “Owl Spirit.” | CHRIS MONROE

[LEFT] Pottery artists Richard Gruhalla and Carrin Rossetti will showcase their ceramics at the Park Point Art Fair. | GRUHALLA & ROSSETTI

Lissa Flemming of Bayfield, Wisconsin creates jewelry, such as this Lake Superior necklace. | LISSA FLEMMING

Breana’s Pick of the Month

A few months ago, I came across this wonderful summer piece, created by artist Andrea Martin. It was on display at the Grand Marais Art Colony during the Northern Fibers Retreat. Martin creates hand-cut paper art, finding inspiration from plants and animals. With good intentions to share it in the March or May issue, I decided to wait until summer arrived. With so many great, colorful prints by Martin, it was hard to pick only one. But, as an avid cat lover, I instantly fell in love with this print, titled “Backyard Garden,” featuring a cat in the lower left corner. To find more of Martin’s creations, visit www.andreamartin.com.

April 14-June 2

April 14-July 7

Team Spirit: Jen Dietrich & Robb Quisling Duluth Art Institute www.duluthartinstitute.org

May 6-June 19

A

May 27-July 16

Art Gallery Exhibit: Bruce Palmer, David DeGree & Tom Spence Cross River Heritage Center, Schroeder www.crossriverheritage.org

June 1-30

Emergence: Touching the Infinite Source of Being (5 p.m. reception on June 2) Red Mug Coffeehouse & Gallery, Superior www.redmugcoffee.com

June 3-19

Secondary School Art Exhibition (7:30 p.m. reception on June 9) Thunder

June

Waterfront

June

June

24

Karen Savage Blue Exhibit Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais www.johnsonheritagepost.org

June 24-Sept. 24

The Teaching is in the Making: Re(Store)ied Memories of Anishinabeg by Leanna Marshall & Celeste Pedri-Spade Thunder Bay Art

June

GRAND OPENING

Kakabeka Bluegrass Festival BY CASEY FITCHETT

The combination of natural beauty and musical talent is a duo that the North Shore of Lake Superior knows well. The annual Kakabeka Bluegrass Festival outside of Thunder Bay showcases both talented artists and impressive scenery.

The festival, which is celebrating its eighth anniversary, began as a one-day event with all local bands. It now spans three days, hosts internationally-recognized performers and typically entertains around 600 people by the weekend’s end.

“It really is a nice little festival on beautiful grounds,” said Thunder Bay Bluegrass and Old Tyme Music Association first-year president Lou Hebert. “The musicians play in an all-board barn chapel. It’s quite a nice little place to play in.”

The three main acts this year include Dick Kimmel & Co. of southern Minnesota, Sloughgrass of Birchdale, Minnesota, and Due North from Duluth. An array of local musicians also take the stage throughout the weekend.

Dick Kimmel’s bands have performed throughout North American and Europe since the 1970’s. They play a traditional style of bluegrass interspersed with original

songs. The band’s members include Dick Kimmel, Tony Rook, Graham Sones, and Terry Johnson.

“Kakabeka is a wonderful festival. People are excited. They have a pretty active Bluegrass Association up there and the falls are just beautiful. I have been up there two or three times to do workshops,” said Dick Kimmel.

The Sloughgrass band is comprised of family members, led by matriarch Grandma Audrey Nelson on the upright bass. Nelson’s daughters Christine Hultman and Judith Nelson join her on stage as well as son-in-laws, grandchildren, cousins and friends. The band has been performing around Minnesota and beyond since about 2003.

Louise Wiermaa and Deb Tominen make up the Due North duo. They typically play in Minnesota and Wisconsin and have been signing together for 25 years. They will be joined by Ted Williams at the Kakabeka Bluegrass Festival this year.

One of the draws to this festival is the opportunity to hear what Kimmel describes as “real bluegrass.” The genre has been made more popular in recent years by mainstream artists that have tweaked the basics a bit, but this weekend is authentic.

“Bluegrass crowds love to hear people play real bluegrass,” said Kimmel. “Generally bluegrass is a combination of six specific instruments. It’s hard-driving with high singing and really heartfelt. People generally like the fastpaced pieces.”

The festival will also include an open mic stage on Saturday afternoon, as well as workshops and concessions.

“This is the best kept secret around. It’s a very nice, family-friendly event that seems to make everyone feel great. It’s hard to describe,” said Hebert. “It’s not too big to be impersonal. Everyone knows a lot of the people and they have supported us through a lot of the years. It’s a good time and a great outlet for promoting bluegrass music.”

The festival will take place during the weekend of June 26-28 at the Kakabeka Falls Bible Camp, 1.25 miles east of Kakabeka Falls and 14 miles west of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Camping is available throughout the weekend. No advance tickets are available. Visit www.kakabekafallsbluegrassfestival.weebly.com for more info.

This year marks the eighth Kakabeka Bluegrass Festival since its inception in 2009. | SUBMITTED

$55/person ($30 is tax-deductable)

Prepaid Reservations Required (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)

RSVP by June 14, 2016 Call the Foundation office at 218-387-9076, email nshcf@ boreal.org, or send your check to NSHCF, P.O. Box 454, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Ely’s Début Canoe Festival

June 10-12

Ely is launching its first ever Great American Canoe Festival, beginning at noon on Friday, June 10 through Sunday afternoon on June 12. The festival honors the history and culture of the canoe, resulting in a three-day event crammed tighter than a portage pack with activities, demonstrations, races and seminars. There will be 30 events per day, from rugged individual challenges to family-friendly adventures and a film festival. With so much going on, there’s bound to be something to float everyone’s boat, canoe or kayak.

Adrenaline junkies can compete in the 28-mile Mighty Canoe and Kayak Race, or participate in the Upset Canoe Recovery Contest, both at 1 p.m. on Saturday. There will also be stand up paddle boarding all weekend, followed by a canoe and boat flotilla at 11 a.m. on Sunday. Paddle amongst live music, entertainment and food. The Festival will conclude with Outfitting Staff Contests and Races at 1 p.m. on Sunday.

But not everything will happen on the water. Local bars will host Music and Brews, restaurants will vie for Best Walleye Dish and outfitters will challenge each other to high-stakes races and bragging rights. The Ely Folk School will host a hand-made canoe and paddle exhibit. There will be a Canoe Art Show featured around Ely and local shops and museums will be open, too. Vendors include Weno -

nah, Silver Creek Paddle, Veterans on the Lake, US Forest Service, NE Minnesotans for Wilderness, Simply Native Foods and more. Friday and Saturday nights will conclude with campfire stories and s’mores at Semers Beach at 8 p.m.

Also happening is the Expedition Con on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m., featuring 20 minute presentations from wellknown explorers Frank Wolf, Will Steger, Eric Larsen, Jared Munch, Dan Blessing and Lonnie Dupre. Tickets are required. Lunch will be included.

Other presentations throughout the event include author and wilderness traveler Julie Buckles, William Durbin, Jerry Viandiver, Alex Comb, Joe Zellner, Carrie Nolan, Brian Mauer, Alan Haney, Sara Larson, Tim Barton and many more. Lectures and classes include adventuring with the Sherpa people, invasive species, canoeing along fur routes, how to prepare for your first adventure and perfecting the J-stroke.

Wrist bands are required for those participating in any festival events located at Semers Beach, as well as any presentations, races and demos. To find out more, visit www.greatamericancanoefest.com.

Canadian filmmaker, adventurer, writer and environmentalist Frank Wolf will be presenting at the Ely Canoe Festival. | SUBMITTED

Jason Zabokrtsky, owner of the Ely Outfitting Company, left on foot, alone, and without a boat in October 2013 for a 90-mile route that bisected the heart of Quetico Provincial Park and the BWCAW. He will be presenting at the Ely Canoe Festival. | SUBMITTED

Le Grand du Nord May 28, Saturday

Hundreds of cyclists will gather in Grand Marais for the Heck of the North Productions inaugural Le Grand du Nord 50 and 100 mile bike races. Participants will experience a variety of terrain. The races will begin at the Grand Marais Coast Guard Station, then head east on Hwy. 61, up the Croftville Road and end at the YMCA in Grand Marais. Celebration includes BBQ and pints at Voyageur Brewing Company. Registration is required. Visit www. heckofthenorth.com for more info.

Art Along the Lake

May 27-30

Spend Memorial Weekend exploring art galleries along the Lake, from Schroeder to Grand Portage, many of which will host music, food, classes and exhibits. Last Chance Fabricating in Lutsen will be providing a live bronze pour demo with Tom Christiansen. Watch as he creates petite raven sculptures, beginning at 4 p.m. In Grand Marais, Melissa Wickwire will be holding a tile making demo at 11 p.m. at her studio in the Old Playhouse. The Cross River Heritage will be also be holding live demos from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 27 and from 10 a.m.3 p.m. on Saturday, May 28. Demos include Acrylic Painting with Bruce Palmer, Crazy Quilting with Orlene Fisher, Pine Needle Basketry with Mary Jane Huggins, Knife Construction with Marland Hansen and more. Other events include a reception from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Betsy Bowen’s studio in Grand Marais on May 27th, featuring Spanish-style tapas and flamenco guitar music by Briand Morrison. For gallery locations or more info, see www. visitcookcounty.com.

Waterfall Book Signing

May 26, 28, 29 & 30

Join authors Eve and Gary Wallinga as they showcase their new book, Waterfalls of Minnesota’s North Shore and More. Book signings will take place Thursday, May 26 at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Kirby Ballroom at the University of Minnesota Duluth. They will also be appearing on Saturday, May 28 at the Lake Superior Trading Post in Grand Marais at 11 a.m. On Sunday, May 29, they will be at the Voyageur Brewing Taproom in Grand Marais from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Lastly, head to Gooseberry State Park near Two Harbors on Monday, May 30 at 11 a.m. To find more info or order a book copy, visit www.northernwilds.com.

The first inaugural Le Grand du Nord bike race will be held in Grand Marais on May 28. | JEREMY KERSHAW

Artist Judy Christensen will showcase her jewelry at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery in Lutsen during Art Along the Lake. | JUDY CHRISTENSEN

Northern Landscapes Festival

June 3-5

Discover the birds, wildflowers and geology of the Northern landscape at this annual North House Folk School festival in Grand Marais. There will be a series of interrelated, field-focused courses, complimented by presentations and programs. This year’s featured speakers include Canadian adventurers, photographers, and award-winning authors, Gary and Joanie McGuffin. The McGuffins produced the hour-long documentary Painted Land: In Search of the Group of Seven, regarding the seven iconic Canadian artists. Other presentations include Southern Landscapes Interlude: Life in a Penguin Colony, with biologist Chris Beal, and Warp Weighted Looms of the Shetland Isles with international guest instructor Elizabeth Johnston. Classes include building a bat house, field botany, beekeeping basics, photography, self-guided birding at Chik-Wauk, and a community pizza bake. Visit www.northhouse.org for more info.

National Trails Day

Saturday, June 4

Each June, trail groups across the country celebrate National Trails Day to highlight the importance of trails. This year, the Superior Hiking Trail Association will host two hikes in Finland; a long and short route option. Both hikes will meet at the Clair Nelson Community Center at 10

a.m. Pre-hike treats will be provided. No registration required. For more info, visit www.shta.org.

Electronics Recycling

June 11, Saturday

The Cook County Recycling Center in Grand Marais will hold an electronics recycling collective day, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring your old stereos, microwaves, toasters and other electronic equipment and have them recycled properly. Computers, TVs, lamps, non-PCB ballasts and batteries can also be recycled for a small fee. Call 218-387-3630 for more details.

Take a Kid Fishing

June 11, Saturday

Interested in teaching your kid how to fish and appreciate the many area lakes? Then join the Minnesota DNR, the Cook County Soil and Water Conservation District and the U.S. Forest Service for a day of fishing at 9 a.m. at the Kimball Lake Campground on the Gunflint Trail. There will also be natural resource professionals demonstrating fly casting and tying, information on aquatic invasive species and more. Lunch and water will be provided. Space is limited. Email gunflint@fs.fed.us or call 218387-3200 for more info. Don’t forget to bring a life jacket and your fishing rod. If you don’t have a rod or fishing gear, there is a limited supply available, donated by Buck’s Hardware in Grand Marais.

SAWMILL TOURS

Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca

June 11, Saturday

Ricardo Lemvo is a celebrated pioneer of innovative music that blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with pan-African styles. Singing songs that celebrate life, Lemvo inspires his audiences to let loose and dance away their worries. He has released five CDs and performed countless shows throughout Europe, the Americas, Africa

and Australia. Lemvo will be performing in Grand Marais with his full 8-piece band, Makina Loca. There will be room to dance. The show will be held at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for ages 18 and under. Visit www.tix.com to purchase tickets online or visit www.northshoremusicassociation.com for more info.

Lemvo

museum and nature center

Events

All events at Chik-Wauk unless noted Birding Hike

Sunday June 5th, 7:30 am, with Ann Russ Shrimp Boil

Seagull Lake Community Center

June 12th, 4 pm, $15/person (suggested donation)

MSHS Talk

Seagull Lake Community Center

Monday, June 13 — Underwater exploration of the Granite River presented by Steve Elliot, Director of the Minnesota State Historical Society,

Aquatic Invasive Species

Sunday, June 26 — Amanda Weberg will share how these invaders affect you, what they look like, where to find them, and what you can do to become a clean water superhero.

Weekly Events

Kids’ Day

Tuesdays, June 21 to August 16, 11 am to 4 pm

Stories, hikes, journal-making & crafts

Nature Presentations

Sundays, starting June 19th, 2–3 pm

USFS Presentations

Tuesdays, June 28 – August 16, 2 –3 pm

Various Northwoods-themed topics presented by U.S. Forest Service naturalists

urday, June 25 for Children’s Day, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is free for ages 17 and under. Learn about the children who lived at the light station, join in special games and participate in a scavenger hunt. Visit www.splitrocklighthouse.org for more details.

Lutsen Block Party

Friday, June 17

The businesses of Lutsen are holding a community-wide block party to show appreciation for clients and the community. There will be food and refreshments, live music with Rod and Al from Cook County’s Most Wanted from 6-8 p.m., and prizes to giveaway. The grand prize giveaway will be a kayak from Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply. Must be present to win. The party will be from 4-8 p.m. in the parking lot next to Timber Wolff Realty.

Memorial Weekend - October 23

10 am - 5 pm

Nature Center 11 am - 4 pm

Admission Fee

28 Moose Pond Drive,Grand Marais 55 miles up the Gunflint Trail.

218-388-9915

info@chikwauk.com www.chikwauk.com

The annual Grand Marais North House Folk School event features fun for the whole family. Take part in a workshop or course, listen to the stories of boat builders, sailors and travelers and plan your next adventure. This year’s featured speakers are Brian Miller and Randy Gosa of The Lost Forty, who will share tradiOpen

BWCAW Expo

June 11-12

The 2nd annual Boundary Waters Expo will be held at Seagull Lake Public Landing on the Gunflint Trail. Listen to BWCAW expert presenters, including this year’s guest speaker Cliff Jacobson. There will also be activities, demonstrations and more. Enjoy hands-on activities with fun for the whole family. Visit www.visitcookcounty.com for more info.

Split Rock Lighthouse

June 11 & June 25

On Saturday, June 11, Split Rock Lighthouse will be hosting an open house with free admission, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 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 a film about the early shipping industry on Lake Superior. Then, enjoy a day of tours geared for children on Sat-

Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice

June 17-19

Split Rock Lighthouse provides activities and demos during Children’s Day. | SUBMITTED

The NHFS Wooden Boat Show will feature workshops and courses for everyone. | SUBMITTED

The Royal Canadian Circus features all types of performers. | SUBMITTED

tional folk songs adapted from field recordings and manuscripts of singers from the Great Lakes region, along with stories, projections and historical photos. The featured instructor is Swedish woodworker Beth Moen. Course offerings include solstice cooking, blacksmithing, sail training, fire-starting, carving for kids, felting, figure carving, sewing your own canoe portage pack, and more. There will also be a wooden boat display, demos, food, a Boats-to-Tools auction, and the Solstice Pageant on Saturday at 8 p.m. For more info, visit www.northhouse.org.

Royal Canadian Circus

June 17-19

The Royal Canadian Circus will be per forming under the big top in Thunder Bay for the Spectac! 2016 show. This circus has been providing fun for 50 years and it’s an experience your family shouldn’t miss. There will be flying acrobats, clowns, animal performers, dancers, food, activi ties and more. Performance acts include Joseph Dominick Bauer as the Ringmaster and the Daredevil on the Wheel of Desti ny, the Flying Pages trapeze troupe, the Videla Family Circus Clowns, Antonies Acrobatic Troupe on the Russian Swing, Kambarov Acrobats scaling the Chinese Pole, and Martin Gonzales with the Strap and Silk Aerial Act. For more info, visit www.royalcanadiancircus.ca.

Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca

June 11, 7:30 PM

Electronics Recycling Collection Event

Bring in your old computers, TVs and other electronic equipment and have them recycled properly. Saturdays, June 11th & August 27th, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Cook County Recycling Center, Grand Marais

Recycle

FREE

Recycle for a small fee

Computer Monitors

Televisions Lamps - Fluorescent - Compact fluorescent - Circular fluorescent - U-bend fluorescent - HID - Shatter Shield - Built-in ballast - Incandescent - Halogen - Broken lamps - Neon and UV Ballasts -Non-PCB ballasts Batteries - Alkaline - Nickle cadmium

Towering Pines Canopy Tour at Gunflint Lodge is the most exciting new way to experience the wilderness get a bird’s eye view plus a thrilling ride through the treetops! It’s a two-and-a-half hour nature adventure led by two sky guides.

Open Daily

$89.00 per person

Call 218-388-2296 for reservations.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner available at Red Paddle Bistro.

Gunflint Lodge is 43 miles up the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais.

Minimum age is 10; maxiumum weight/person is 240 lbs.

Set sail on our 50’ schooner Hjørdis. Two-hour sails available most days. RESERVATIONS ONLINE

www.northhouse.org

GRAND MARAIS ARTS FESTIVAL

Grandma’s Marathon Weekend

June 18, Saturday

Test your speed and endurance with the annual 40th Grandma’s Marathon race, totaling 26.2 miles. The race will start at 7:45 a.m. in Two Harbors and end in Canal Park, Duluth. The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon (13.1 miles) will also take place on Saturday, and the William A. Irvin 5k will take place on Friday. Grandma’s Marathon weekend will also feature live music Friday and Saturday night with Rock the Big Top celebration in Canal Park, featuring Smash Mouth, Big Wave Dave & the Ripples, Coyote Wild and GB Leighton. Ticket info available online. For more info, visit www.grandmasmarathon.com.

Master Bing

June 19, Sunday

Master Bing will be visiting the Grand Marais YMCA on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19. This Master of Martial Arts will give a two hour outdoor lesson and demo from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a rare and unique opportunity, so don’t miss out. Registration will be required through the YMCA. Visit www.wudangdao.com for more info on Master Bing and visit www. cookcountyymca.org for more details.

Zhong Xuechao (Master Bing) is a 15th generation Wudang Sanfeng Kung Fu master with more than 20 years of experience teaching Kung Fu and Tai Chi. | SUBMITTED

Racers

NSFCU Grand Opening

Tuesday, June 21

The new North Shore Federal Credit Union in Two Harbors is opening with a Splash on Tuesday, June 21 from 7-9 p.m. Enjoy a BBQ with brats and hotdogs, live music from Big Dave Wave and the Ripples, and a chance to win cash and prizes. Open an account and you will be entered into a drawing to win $500, and the opening membership deposit is free. Visit www.northshorefcu.org for more info.

Woodland Chamber Music Workshops

June 21-26

The Woodland Chamber Music Workshop is an inclusive and nurturing program for adult musicians, featuring technique classes, seminars, lectures, coaching ses -

sions and rehearsals. Register for the full session from June 21-26, or the short session, June 23-26. Artists include the Gichigami Trio, Betty Braustein, Kevin Miecke and Mina Fisher. Workshops will be held at Surfside Resort in Tofte. All instruments and skill levels are accepted; no auditions required. Visit www.woodlandchambermusic.org for more info.

Kakabeka Falls Bluegrass Festival

June 24-26

The Thunder Bay Bluegrass and Old Tyme Music Association will hold the 8th annual Kakabeka Falls Bluegrass Festival, located at the Kakabeka Falls Bible Camp. This year’s lineup includes Dick Kimmel and Co, Sloughgrass, Due North and more. Tickets are $10 on Friday and Sunday, and $20 on Saturday. Ages 16 and under are free. Visit www.kakabekafallsbluegrassfestival.weebly.com for more info.

The Mesabi Orchestra Crew has taken part in the Woodland Chamber Music Workshop in the past. | SUBMITTED

Betsy Bowen Gallery & Artist Studios

Betsy Bowen Gallery

Woodcuts Books Cards

Print Demonstrations

Stephan Hoglund

Borderlands Gallery

Jewelry PhotographyDesign

Ron’s World Rocks

Silver & Gems

Jewelry

Wickwire

Clay HandmadeWorks

Ceramic Tile

Pottery

J. Sannerud Studios

Furniture

Bowls

Woodenware

Open 11 - 5 Daily, May-October

301 First Avenue West, 387-1992

On the fringe of downtown Grand Marais!

Art Along the Lake

FRI., MAY 27

10:00 – 12:00 Noon

Al Sunde

German-style woodcarving

Marland Hansen

Knife construction

Knives from leftover stuff

1:00 pm -3:00 pm

Lavona Czaplicki

Ukrainian egg painting

Polly Erickson

NeedleworkApplique quilting

Bruce Palmer

Acrylic painting

2pm -4:30 pm

Paula Sundet-Wolf Spinning Wheel

Art Demonstrations at Cross River Heritage Center Open May27-

SAT., MAY 28

10:00 – 12:00 Noon

Orlene Fisher Crazy Quilting

Jean Bushman

Hardanger Embroidery

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lavona Czaplicki

Ukrainian egg painting

Mary Jane Huggins

Pine Needle Basketry

SAT., JUNE 11 5 p.m

Annual Meeting & Dinner

Schroeder Town Hall

Boomtown: Taconite Harbor Artists Gallery May 27- July 16

Bruce Palmer Acrylic David DeGree Photography Tom Spence Photography

FinnFestival

June 24-26

The 76th Finnish Canadian Grand Festival in Thunder Bay will begin on Friday, June 24 at 4 p.m. in the historic Finnish Labour Temple, known internationally for its Hoito Restaurant. In the opening ceremonies, local Canadian performers will be joined by the Kivajat Finnish American Dance Group. Throughout the weekend, festival goers can enjoy a variety of activities exploring Finnish culture, including dance and music performances on indoor and outdoor stages, a fashion show, dinner with the Finnish Ambassador, films, lectures, an art exhibit, drama performances, a vendor’s marketplace, food booths, a folk dance workshop, Finnish games, a Nordic walk, evening dances and more. Registration for the entire weekend has been set at $15. Some special events will require an additional fee. For a complete list of FinnFestival activities, and to register, visit www.finnfestival2016.com

Lutsen 99er

June 25, Saturday

You’ve trained all year and it’s time to test your endurance. This intense 99-mile bike race starts and ends at Lutsen Mountains and weaves through the rugged terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains and boreal forest on Lake Superior. There is also a 19-mile, 39-mile and 69-mile race, as well as kids races. Spectators and volunteers are welcomed and encouraged. Post-race events include live music, an awards ceremony, and more. Visit www.lutsen99er.com for more info.

LIFE IN CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH

Proclaiming the Good News of Life through Jesus Christ 2017 W Hwy. 61, Grand Marais

Worship with us on Sundays at 9 am.

In July & August, you’ll also find us at 579 So. Gunflint Lake at 11:30 am

A Mission and Ministry of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod sharing God’s Word and doing God’s work.

The Lutsen 99er bike race will cross rivers and rugged terrain in the Sawtooth Mountains. | LUTSEN 99ER

A Finnish Folk Dancing Workshop for adults and teens will be held on Saturday, June 25 from 1-3 p.m. as part of the FinnFestival. | SUBMITTED

CHUM Rhubarb Festival

June 25, Saturday

Get your taste buds ready to tackle the tangy, tartness of every rhubarb delicacy known to mankind. There will be games, crafts, music, auctions, raffles, food booths, a bake sale, demos and stage shows. This year’s raffle includes a handmade wooden bowl created by nationally recognized Segmented Wood Turner Tom Lohman. Raffle tickets are $20. The festival will take place at 11th Ave. East and London Road in Duluth from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. For more info, visit www.chumduluth.org/ rhubarbfestival.htm.

Park Point Art Fair

June 25-26

The original Park Point Art Fair began in 1970 with visual artists setting their work on blankets at a playground. This year, the Art Fair is hosting the 46th annual fair and will feature 120 juried artists from the Midwest region, displaying and selling uniquely crafted items, such as painting,

jewelry, printmaking, photography, sculpture, clay, fiber, glass and woodwork. There will also be food vendors, live music, art demos, family activities, and more. The festival will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Park Point in Duluth. Parking and admission is free. Visit www.parkpointartfair.org for more info.

Rhubarb delicacies from pies, jams and breads to rhubarb bratwurst and burritos can be found at the CHUM Rhubarb Festival in Duluth. | SUBMITTED

GoodAwaitTimes

North of the Border

This ain’t your daddy’s Thunder Bay! www.thewaterfrontdistrict.ca (Remember, Thunder Bay is on Eastern Time —1 hour ahead of MN time.)

This month begins with The Cover Show from June 1-5 at the Black Pirates Pub, featuring 20 bands in four nights. Then, rock out to 10 bands over two nights with MetalFest , June 1617. www.blackpiratespub.com

The Waterfront Art Exhibit will be on display from June 3-28. Thunder Bay artists Carol Kajorinne, Chris Merkley, Christian Chapman, Jean Marsall, Crystal Nielsen, Jan Luit, Leslie Shaw, and many others, will showcase their eclectic artwork at the Baggage Arts Centre. You can then meet the artists and purchase their one-of-a-kind artwork at the Waterfront Art Sale on Saturday, June 25 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www. facebook.com/baggagebuildingarts

Feel like trying something new? How about the Pints and Poses Yoga and Beer Class at the Red Lion Smokehouse? Stretch your sipping muscles with a one hour Yoga Flow Class, followed by beer tasting, from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, June 5. Price is $35 and tickets are available at the door. There is also live music at 10 p.m. every Friday night and Quiz Night on Wednesday, June 29 at 8 p.m. The Red Lion is located at 28 Cumberland Street South. www.redlionsmokehouse.ca

Also on June 5 is the Kite Festival at Chippewa Park, which first began in 1981 and was included in the “Top

50 Ontario Festivals” list for four years in a row. Along with kite workshops, demos, and activities, festival-goers will be joined by kite experts from renowned Kite Clubs. Don’t miss this award-winning day of fun, color and amazement, held from noon-4 p.m. Call (807) 625-2487 for more info.

Those who wish to test their endurance can participate in the Metre Eaters June Classic 5k and 10k Races, hosted by the Metre Eater Running Club in Thunder Bay on Saturday, June 4. Other upcoming races include the Walk/Run to Fight Arthritis 1k and 5k on June 5, and the Fresh Air 10k at the Kamview Nordic Centre. www.metreeaters.ca

The Magnus Theatre will be performing Blocked: A Play about Bullying from June 6-9. Learn about bullying, the potential consequences from the misuse of social media, and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions. The theatre is located at 10 South Algoma Street. www.magnus.on.ca

The Thunder Bay Pride Festival will be held from June 11-18, with several events located in the Waterfront District, including the Pub Night DJ Dance Party at Black Pirates Club on Saturday, June 11, an Awareness Breakfast on Monday, June 13 at Prince Arthur Hotel, and the Thunder Pride Drag Show at the Italian

Thunder Bay Fish & Game Shooting Ranges OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, June 18

Noon - 4 p.m.

Demonstrations No charge—All are welcome

Culture Centre on Friday, June 17. And don’t miss out on the Thunder Pride Parade, starting at noon in Waverly Park, and Pride in the Park in Marina Park, both on Saturday, June 18. www.thunderpride.ca

Join the Lakehead Canoe Club at Paramount Theater on Tuesday, June 14 for the Waterwalker Film Festival. Enjoy a night of paddling films, including a film by local paddler Carrie Nolan, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, and are available at Wilderness Supply and Fresh Air. All proceeds support the Lakehead Canoe Club.

National Aboriginal Day will take place on Tuesday, June 21. This special day celebrates the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples in Canada. Prince Arthur’s Landing near Marina Park will host events.

Also on June 25 are the Thunder Bay Rowing Sprints Races hosted by the Thunder Bay Rowing Club. www.thunderbayrowingclub.com

The shops in the Ruttan block will be open during the day on July 1st; Canada Day. Stop and shop before walking down to the Marina for the Waterfront Canada Day Celebration.

April 25-Oct. 9

Mentor Residency Workshops Grand Marais Art Colony www.grandmaraisartcolony.org

May 28, Saturday

Le Grand du Nord Bike Races Grand Marais www.heckofthenorth.com

Book Signing with Authors Eve & Gary Wallinga: Waterfalls of Minnesota’s North Shore & More 11 a.m. Lake Superior Trading Post, Grand Marais

May 28-30

Art Along the Lake Cook County www.visitcookcounty.com

May 29, Sunday

Book Signing with Authors Eve & Gary Wallinga: Waterfalls of Minnesota’s North Shore & More 12:30 p.m. Voyageur Brewing Taproom, Grand Marais

May 30, Monday

Memorial Day

Book Signing with Authors Eve & Gary Wallinga: Waterfalls of Minnesota’s North Shore & More 11 a.m. Gooseberry State Park, Two Harbors

June 1, Wednesday

James Taylor 8 p.m. AMSOIL Arena, Duluth www.decc.org

June 1-5

Duluth Superior Film Festival www.ds-ff.com

June 2, Thursday

Writer Read 4:30 p.m. US Forest Service Classroom, Ely www.ely.org

June 2-12

Annapurna 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays) The Duluth Playhouse www.duluthplayhouse.org

June 3, Friday

First Fridays 4 p.m. Grand Marais www.visitcookcounty.com

Art Auction 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery www.theag.ca

6th Annual Bio-Blitz Dorion Public School and Hurkett Cove, Dorion, Ontario (807) 887-5669

JUNE Northern Wilds Calendar of Events

Superior Ballroom Dance Studio

Spring Gala 7 p.m. The DECC, Duluth www.decc.org

Traveling Texts: What Book-bindings

Tell us about Early Printed Books with Scott Husby 7 p.m. Grand Marais Art Colony www.grandmaraisartcolony.org

Mysterious Ways 7 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

June 3-4

Wolves after Dark 5 p.m. International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

Evergreen Grass Band 9 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 3-5

Northern Landscapes Festival

North House Folk School, Grand Marais www.northhouse.org

Annual Lake Trout Derby Red Rock Marina www.redrockfishandgame.com

June 4, Saturday

Muskie Fishing Opener

National Trails Day: Short and Long Hikes 10 a.m. Clair Nelson Center, Finland

National Sauna Day 10 a.m. Nelimark Homestead Museum, Embarrass Operation 23 to Zero: 23 Hours to End Suicide Race Lutsen www.op23tozero.com

Metre Eaters June Classic 5k & 10k Thunder Bay www.metreeaters.ca

Walk for Animals 9 a.m. Bayfront Park, Duluth www.animalallies.net/walk

Mining Day 10 a.m. Marina Park, Thunder Bay www.thunderbayminingday.ca

Reading: Short Stories & Fiction with Kathryn Savage 11 a.m. Grand Marais Public Library www.grandmaraislibrary.org

Splintertones 7 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

June 5, Sunday

Thunder Bay Kite Festival Noon, Chippewa Park, Thunder Bay www.thunderbay.ca

Birding Hike with Ann Russ 7:30 a.m. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

June 8, Wednesday

Summer History Nights with Christopher Welter 7 p.m. Vermilion Community College, Ely www.ely.org

June 9, Thursday

William Henry Trunk Show 10 a.m. Security Jewelers, Duluth www.securityjewelers.com

Ask a Forester: Forestry/Tree Management on your Property 5 p.m. Cook County Courthouse; Commissioner’s Room, Grand Marais (218) 387-3648

Ian Alexy 7 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 10, Friday

Spring Meeting & Landowner Workshop Two Harbors Community Center www.northshoreforest.org

Fresh Air 10k Kamview Nordic Centre, Thunder Bay www.metreeaters.ca

Timmy Haus 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewery, Grand Marais www.voyageurbrewing.com

Portage Band 6 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

June 10-11

Wild Berry Jam 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 10-12

Great American Canoe Festival Whiteside Park, Ely www.ely.org

June 11, Saturday

National Get Outdoors Day Free admission to all Minnesota State Parks

Swim, Ride, Run Youth Triathlon 7:30 a.m. Two Harbors High School www.isd381. cr3.rschooltoday.com/public/costoption/ class_id/3233/public/1

AEOA Homeownership Class 8:30 a.m. Silver Bay www.aeoa.org

Electronics Recycling Collective Event

9 a.m. Cook County Recycling Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3630

Blood Drive 9:30 a.m. Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Two Harbors www.mbc.org

Open House: Free Admission 10 a.m. Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors www.splitrocklighthouse.org

Nice Girls of the North Marketplace

10 a.m. Lakeside Lester Park Community Center, Duluth www.nicegirlsofthenorth.com

Cook County Tennis Block Party

10 a.m. Grand Marais Tennis Courts www.facebook.com/groups/ cookcountytennisassociation

Take a Kid Fishing 9 a.m. Kimball Lake Campground, Gunflint Trail gunflint@fs.fed.us

Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca Family

Program 1 p.m. Grand Marais Library www.northshoremusicassociation.com

Pete Kavanaugh 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais www.voyageurbrewing.com

Annual Meeting & Dinner 5 p.m. Town Hall, Schroeder www.crossriverheritage.org

Artist Talk with Linda Legarde Grover: The Road Back to Sweet Grass 5 p.m. Drury Lane Books www.drurylanebooks.com

Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca

7:30 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais www.arrowheadcenterforthearts.org

The Next Generation Leahy 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

The Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers 8 p.m. Insula, Ely www.ely.org

June 11-12

Boundary Waters Expo

Seagull Lake Public Landing, Gunflint Trail www.visitcookcounty.com

Anishinawbe Keeshigun Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay www.fwhp.ca

June 11-18

Thunder Pride Week Thunder Bay www.thunderpride.ca/dir

June 12, Sunday

Shrimp Boil & Bake Sale 4 p.m.

Seagull Lake Community Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

Timmy Haus 6 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 13, Monday

Play Auditions 9 a.m.

Two Harbors High School Auditorium

MSHS Speaker Steve Elliot: Underwater Exploration of the Granite River 1:30 p.m. Seagull Lake Community Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

June 13-14 & 15-16

Mississippi Headwaters Watershed Workshop Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Duluth www.boulderlake.org

June 13-15

Children’s Art Camp Miners Dry House at Ely Arts & Heritage Center, Ely www.elygreenstone.org

Ely-Winton Historical Society Annual Dinner Vermilion Community College Fine Arts Lobby www.ely.org

June 14, Tuesday

Waterwalker Film Festival 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theater, Thunder Bay www.paddlesport.org

June 15, Wednesday

City & Colour featuring Shakey Graves 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

June 16, Thursday

Pup Growth Rate Webinar 9 a.m. International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

Gordon Thorne 7 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 16-17

Essentia Health Fitness Expo The DECC, Duluth www.decc.org

June 17, Friday

Relay for Life Fort William Historical Society, Thunder Bay www.fwhp.ca

Downtown Block Party with Live Music & Prizes 4 p.m. Downtown Lutsen

William A. Irvin 5k 6 p.m. Duluth www.grandmasmarathon.com

Derek Edwards: Baloney and Wine

7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

Mysterious Ways 7 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

June 17-18

Rock the Big Top Canal Park, Duluth www.grandmasmarathon.com

Pinocchio 7 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. Sunday,

Two Harbors High School Auditorium

Evergreen Grass Band

8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 17-19

Wooden Boat Show & Summer Solstice

Festival North House Folk School, Grand Marais www.northhouse.org

Royal Canadian Circus: Under the Big Top CLE Parking Lot, Thunder Bay www.cle.on.ca

Peter Mitchell Days

Babbitt-Ely www.ely.org

Annual Kids Fishing Derby Red Rock Marina www.redrockfishandgame.com

June 18, Saturday

World Wide Knit in Public Day

Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon 6:15 a.m. Duluth www.grandmasmarathon.com

Grandma’s Marathon

7:45 a.m. Two Harbors to Duluth www.grandmasmarathon.com

Apostle Islands Inline Marathon

8:30 a.m. Madeline Island www.apostleislandsinline.com

Open House 9 a.m. Wolf Ridge, Finland www.wolf-ridge.org

Pride Parade Noon, Marina Park, Thunder Bay www.thunderpride.ca/dir Thunder Bay Fish & Game

Shooting Ranges Open House Noon www.thunderbayfishandgame.com

Summer Solstice Party 5 p.m. Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais www.sivertson.com

Michael Monroe

7 p.m. Log Cabin, Grand Marais www.michaelmonroemusic.com

Earth, Wind & Todd 8 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Timmy Haus 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen www.lutsen.com

Rock-a-Billy Revue Clearview on Scenic 61, Two Harbors www.clearwatereventcenter.com

June 19, Sunday

Father’s Day

Demo & Lesson by Master Bing

10 a.m. Grand Marais YMCA www.cookcountyymca.org

Nature Presentation and Talk

2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

Jim & Michelle 6:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 20, Monday

Summer Solstice

Full Moon Reading with Linnea Hendrickson & Friends

5 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais www.drurylanebooks.com

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

Summer Solstice Celestial Celebration

8 p.m. Agate Bay, Two Harbors, vholisky@gmail.com

June 20-21

MN Rural Health Conference

The DECC, Duluth www.minnesotanaturalconference.org

June 20-21 & 23-24

Renewable Energy Teacher Workshop

Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Duluth www.boulderlake.org

June 21, Tuesday

National Aboriginal Day Prince Arthur’s Landing in Marina Park, Thunder Bay

Free Kid’s Day

11 a.m. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

Sawmill Tour

12:30 p.m. Hedstrom Lumber Company, Gunflint Trail www.hedstromlumber.com

NSFCU Grand Opening Splash

7 p.m. North Shore Federal Credit Union, Two Harbors www.northshorefcu.org

Take It With You: Live Radio Theatre (Episode 3) 7:30 p.m. The Underground, Duluth www.duluthunderground.org

Tuesday Nite Live Downtown Ely www.ely.org

June 21-26

Woodland Chamber Music Workshops Surfside Resort, Tofte www.woodlandchambermusic.org

June 22, Wednesday

Blood Drive

1 p.m. KBJR 6, Duluth www.mbc.org

The Visual Language & the Unexpected with David Feinberg 4:30 p.m. Grand Marais Art Colony www.grandmaraisartcolony.org

Summer History Nights with Leone Graff 7 p.m. Vermilion Community College, Ely www.ely.org

June 23, Thursday

Two Harbors City Band Concert

7:30 p.m. Thomas Owen Park, Two Harbors

June 23-24

Jr. Biologist Mini-Camps International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

June 24, Friday

Sawmill Tour 10 a.m. Hedstrom Lumber Company, Gunflint Trail www.headstromlumber.com

Timmy Haus 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewery, Grand Marais www.voyageurbrewing.com

Portage Band 6 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

June 24-25

Rich Mattson & the Northstars 9 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais www.gunflinttavern.com

June 24-26

Kakabeka Falls Bluegrass Festival Kakabeka Falls, Ontario www. kakabekafallsbluegrassfestival.weebly.com

FinnFestival

Thunder Bay www.finnfestival2016.com

DNR Teen/Young Adult Family Workshop Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint Trail linda.bylander@state.mn.us

Juhannus Festival Thunder Bay www.314baystreet.com

Seussical Jr. 7 p.m. (7 & 2 p.m. on Sat., & 2 p.m. on Sun.) The Duluth Playhouse www.duluthplayhouse.org

June 25, Saturday

Public Art Mystery Event Miners Dry House at Ely Arts & Heritage Center www.elygreenstone.org

Lutsen 99er Bike Race

Lutsen www.lutsen99er.com

All Makes Car Show by Midwest Mopars

North 8 a.m. Clyde Iron Heritage Center, Duluth www.midwestmopars.com

Thunder Bay Rowing Sprints www.thunderbayrowingclub.com

Conquer the Fort 7k Mud Run

Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay www.fwhp.ca

Superior Vistas Bike Tour

7:30 a.m. Thompson’s West End Park, Washburn, Wisc. www.superiorvistas.org

CHUM Rhubarb Festival

9 a.m. Duluth www.chumduluth.org

Highland Dance Competition

9:30 a.m. Fitger’s, Duluth

Children’s Day 10 a.m.

Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors www.splitrocklighthouse.org

Matterhorn Madness Race

10 a.m. Mount Baldy Ski Hill, Thunder Bay www.matterhornmadness.ca

Waterfront Art Sale

10 a.m. Thunder Bay www.thunderbay.ca/artscentre

Artist Talk with William Kent

Krueger: Manitou Canyon 5 p.m. Drury Lane Books www.drurylanebooks.com

Canadian Celtic Celebration

7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

4onthefloor 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen www.lutsen.com

June 25-26

Park Point Art Fair 10 a.m. Park Point, Duluth www.parkpointartfair.org

June 26, Friday

North Shore Health Care Foundation

BBQ Gunflint Lodge, Gunflint Trail www. northshorehealthcarefoundation.org

Amanda Weberg: Aquatic Invasive

Species 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

June 26-July 1

The Wonder of Wolves International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

June 27, Saturday

Annual ECR Art Auction

5 p.m. Amici’s Event Center, Ely www.ely.org

June 28, Friday

Sawmill Tour 12:30 p.m. Hedstrom Lumber Company, Gunflint Trail www.hedstromlumber.com

USFS Naturalist Presentation

2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, Gunflint Trail www.chikwauk.com

June 29, Wednesday

Timmy Haus 5 p.m. Moguls Grille & Tap Room, Lutsen www.caribouhighlands.com

Spring Wine Tasting Dinner

6 p.m. Waves of Superior Café, Tofte (218) 663-6877

June 30, Thursday

Pup Growth Rate Webinar 9 a.m. International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

Weekly Events

Mondays

Nature Nook 10 a.m. Hartley Nature Center, Duluth www.hartleynature.org

Free Tennis Clinic (begins June 13) 10 a.m. Grand Marais Tennis Courts www.facebook.com/groups/ cookcountytennisassociation

Adult Tennis Drop-in Doubles (begins June 13) 6 p.m. Grand Marais Tennis Courts www.facebook.com/groups/ cookcountytennisassociation

Live Music 9 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte www.bluefinbay.com

Tuesdays

Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub, Lutsen www.lutsenresort.com

Dance Night with Donna & Donny Buck 7 p.m. Clearwater Grille, Two Harbors www.clearwatereventcenter.com

Wednesdays

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

Free Tennis Clinic (begins June 15) 6 p.m. Grand Marais Tennis Courts www.facebook.com/groups/ cookcountytennisassociation

Live Music 9 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte www.bluefinbay.com

Thursdays

Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub, Lutsen www.lutsenresort.com

Craft Night 6 p.m. Ely Folk School www.elyfolkschool.org

DJ Trivia 6:30 p.m. Clearwater Grille, Two Harbors ww.clearwatereventcenter.com

Live Music 9 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte www.bluefinbay.com

Fridays

Tennis Drop-in Doubles (starts June 10) 9 a.m. Grand Marais Tennis Courts www.facebook.com/groups/ cookcountytennisassociation

Story Hour 10:30 a.m.

Ely Public Library www.ely.org

Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais www.voyageurbrewing.com

Live Music 7 p.m.

Castle Danger Brewery, Two Harbors www.castledangerbrewery.com

Movie Night 7 p.m. Ely Folk School www.elyfolkschool.org

Live Music 8 p.m. Superior Shores, Two Harbors www.superiorshores.com

Live Music 9 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte www.bluefinbay.com

Live Music 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen www.lutsen.com

Saturdays

Thunder Bay Country Market

8 a.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay www.cle.on.ca

Cook County Farm & Craft Market

9 a.m. Senior Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais www.facebook.com/ ccfarmandcraft

Open Music Jam 3 p.m.

American Legion, Two Harbors

Live Music 4 p.m.

Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais www.voyageurbrewing.com

Bronze Pour Demo 4 p.m. Last Chance Gallery, Lutsen www.lastchancefab.com

Live Music 7 p.m. Cascade Lodge & Pub, Lutsen www.cascademn.com

Music in the Lobby 7 p.m. Lutsen Resort www.lutsenresort.com

What’s for Dinner? 7 p.m.

International Wolf Center, Ely www.wolf.org

Live Music 9:30 p.m.

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen www.lutsen.com

Sundays

Weekly Programs 7 p.m.

Caribou Highlands Lodge, Lutsen www.caribouhighlands.com

Design by

Larry Boen

Jeff & Suean Gecas—clients

Lead Contract Team

Jarod Boen

Dustin Boen

Kerry Boen

Disposal & Recycling

Northshore Waste

Steve Esco

Materials, supplies and SIP Panels

Enercept

CCHC & Crew

Bucks Hardware

Milaca Building Center

Village Floor & Wall

Lakestates Lumber-Bob Evans

Marvin Windows

Craftsmen

Greg Hagberg

Kevin Seeman

Brent Pabuta & Crew

Peter Jansen

Randy Boen

Tom Garrin

Colt Buzzell

Shawn Olson & Crew

Heating, Cooling, HVAC

Chuck Wallerstedt

Electrical

Granite Electric

David Bartz

Sam Hedstrom

Lighting

Jim Miller-Northern Lights

Plumbing

Butch Cavallin

Mike Cavallin

Matt Farley

Brock Evenson

Kurt Sobanja

Specialty Services

Richard Olson

Greg Olson

Donn Eliasen

Jerry Starr

Roger Hanson

Robby Blomberg

Greg Gresczyk

Jared Smith

Tom LaFreniere

Heavy Duty Sewing

Rohlfing DistributingFritz & Brian

Bernicks Distributing-Bob Northern Wilds-Sue O’Quinn

Tony Rau

Roofing

Steve Wendell

Chris Wendell

Rick Andersen

Milling, Woodworking, Cabinetry

Roger Westerlind

Korey Luick

Drywall, Taping, Painting

Mike Siesenop

Mike Wirt

Ed Ullman

Brandon Haugustien

Ryan Mistorf

Luke Gulstrand

JJ Liljestrand

Parking Space

Dairy Queen & Crew (a special thanks)

Lodging

Ellas Inn

Shoreline Motel

Artist Loft

The Storefront

Food & Entertainment

Gun Flint Tavern

Dairy Queen

My Sister’s Place

Birch Terrace

Linda Boen

Grandma Ray’s

Holiday Sven & Ole’s

Spiritual Advisor

Jerry Garcia

Support

City of Grand Marais

Cook County News Herald

North Shore Federal

Credit Union

Cook County Highway Department

Cook County Sheriff’s Department

Residents of Grand Marais Sawtooth Clinic

A special thanks to the management and staff of the Gun Flint Tavern for the help and understanding during the construction process—Kerry!

The North Shore Dish

A New Restaurant in Canoe Country

By Maren Webb

During the summertime, the Gunflint Trail is the place to be for some rest and relaxation or an adventure. With over a dozen Boundary Waters entry points, a day paddle or an extended canoe trip is a family favorite. Not to mention the many hikes, from Caribou Rock Trail to Magnetic Lake Trail and many others.

If you venture up the Gunflint Trail for some canoeing, fishing, hiking, or just a drive, there’s a new restaurant to check out in the mid-trail area. The Dancing Bear Café at Big Bear Lodge and Cabins opened mid-May and is offering a menu that is sure to have something new for you to try, with menu options you will likely not find elsewhere on the North Shore. From an Elk Burger to Pulled Pork Nachos, the Café’s menu and ideal setting on the shores of Poplar Lake will please more than your taste buds.

For the past few years, Andy and Ida DeLisi have been serving up artisan pizzas to their guests at Big Bear Lodge and Cabins. With her homemade dough and their grandmother’s sauce recipe from Sicily, the pizzas became a big hit with all ages. The couple made the decision to purchase the Old Northwoods Lodge on Poplar Lake in 2011. One of the benefits of the lodge was that it came equipped with a full commercial kitchen. After the purchase, many wondered if they would open the restaurant as part of the new Big Bear Lodge. Based on the success of their pizzas, and with their refurbished resort and kitchen facilities, the couple decided to embark on a new endeavor by adding a restaurant back to the lodge. Enticed to the area by the opportunity to be their own bosses and live on the water in the woods, Andy and Ida bring enthusiasm to all they do, and “a little leap of faith,” said Andy.

This Mom and Pop operation is bringing the best of two worlds together, striving to share fine dining tastes in a laid back, relaxed atmosphere you’d expect up the Gunflint Trail. No white tablecloths here, but you will find duck and other elevated ingredients on their menu. This gem, located just off the Gunflint Trail about 30 miles from Grand Marais, has a chef that is helping drive this fun and innovative menu. John Barton, who is originally from South Carolina, is a creative, young chef who is bringing some new flavors and ingredients to the North Shore, while still offering food that will please all. Some of the specialties offered with John at the

Join The Dancing Bear Café for one of their special event dinners, or stop in for a meal Thursday-Sunday. | THE DANCING BEAR CAFÉ

helm include the on-site smoking of meats and fresh baked bread. Andy and Ida are going the extra mile to offer a great dining experience, in addition to encouraging their diners to enjoy the Gunflint Trail before or after their meal.

As if the menu wasn’t enough to bring you by, The Dancing Bear Café is also perfectly located for watching the sunset over Poplar Lake during your evening meal with a glass of wine. It’s location on the lake means that you could even paddle right up to the dock, if you are looking for that post-Boundary Waters feast. Even if you stop earlier in the day, you won’t miss out as the lake views and spot nestled in the pines give diners a scenic meal anytime of the day.

This summer, The Dancing Bear Café will also feature some special events. On Wednesdays, starting in July, they will do Wednesday BBQs from noon to 7 p.m., with food, drinks, live music, and beautiful scenery. Musician Joe Paulik, friend of the owners, has been a regular at Big Bear

Lodge, and already has several evenings booked at Big Bear. If you are looking for something extra special, they also host themed private dinners occasionally. Their last event, “Taste of Italy,” featured Italian favorites, from imported cheeses to catered wine pairings. More information about special events will be listed on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BigBearLodgeAndCabins

The Dancing Bear Café will be open Thursday through Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., seasonally, and some Wednesdays. There is indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a seasonal screen porch. Their menu will also change seasonally, so keep an eye out for new options down the road. I’m looking forward to trying their Smoked Trout and Cream Cheese Bagel sandwich, as well as their flatbread pizzas using Ida’s pizza recipe. They also have beer and wine options, which they are currently expanding.

As owner Andy said, “Come on and give us a try.”

Trail Center: 7611 Gunflint Trail. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week. Well-known for their burgers, walleye sandwich, and malts (try the rhubarb one when in season!).

Gunflint Lodge (Red Paddle Bistro and Justine’s Fine Dining): 143 South Gunflint Lake. The lodge restaurant and patio overlook Gunflint Lake, at the end of the Gunflint Trail. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, starting at 7 a.m., seven days a week.

Trail’s End Café: 12582 Gunflint Trail Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week (mid-May through September). Known for their simple menu and their pizza, burgers, and breakfasts at the very end of the Gunflint Trail.

Hungry Jack Lodge: 327 Hungry Jack Road. Breakfast 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and main menu available from noon-9 p.m., seven days a week. Featuring “loggin’ food” with a selection of sandwiches, burgers and made-to-order pizza.

Gunflint Pines: 217 South Gunflint Lake. Open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily (Wednesday until 5 p.m.) and serving pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, deserts and snacks.

Windigo Lodge: 7890 Gunflint Trail. Open year-round, windigo Lodge offers full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Full liquor and beverage service is available.

Borealis Fermentery Speckled Ghost

By Eric Chandler

Last year, I caught my first wild steelhead after trying for 10 years. I bought my favorite beer in the world to celebrate: Speckled Ghost by Borealis Fermentery. The beer title is a nickname for rainbow trout, so it was perfect.

The beer has a big lacy head and mild carbonation with fruit flavor up front. It has a honey color and 9.0 percent ABV. I talked to Ken Thiemann, head brewer about this awesome Belgian Style Abbey Ale.

The beer is bottle conditioned and Thiemann passionately described adding yeast and sugar before the bottle is capped. The carbonation develops from this process. He offered two key tips for his bottle conditioned product. First, make sure to store the bottle upright and away from the sun at room temperature. The beer improves as it ages. Chilling it stops the process, so wait until just before serving. Second, when serving, empty the contents in one long pour to avoid stirring up the yeast at the bottom.

Thiemann has 23 years of experience and it shows. For example, he still includes a timeconsuming protein rest in the brewing process. He called it “snobby” to insist on placing beer in a category. He clearly just wants to make small batches of good beer. He built his brewery with his own two hands, a lot of the time while on crutches. I happened to call precisely on the fourth birthday of the brewery, so: happy birthday, Borealis Fermentery!

Buy a bottle of Speckled Ghost and enjoy. Make sure to treat it right, just like the wild steelhead that you gently release back into the river.

The Art of Outdoor Ovens

By Kathy Toivonen

Why is it that everything tastes better when it’s cooked outside with fire? Maybe it’s the hint of smoke or wood that you don’t get from a gas range. Maybe it’s the outdoor air, or the comfort that fire brings. For me, it’s all that plus the meditative effect of tending a fire and the satisfaction of making good food. You don’t need much to construct and enjoy an outdoor oven— just a little know-how about the forge: the furnace or oven; the fire: what kind of wood to burn; and the food: some of my favorites.

The Forge

Traditional, huge brick and clay ovens— in which you can feed a fire for days, clean out the ashes and then cook with the radiant heat—have been rekindled by professionals such as Sydney’s Frozen Custard in Grand Marais or Both Hands Wood-Fired Pizzeria & Bakery in Thunder Bay. But to be a successful backyard baker, you can make an oven with anything that will hold the heat, from rocks to bricks, or clay and concrete.

For example, my husband and I constructed a primitive stone oven at camp. To start, we made a four feet by four feet stone crib, filled with sand to raise the oven off the ground. Then, we stacked flatedged rocks around three sides until it was about two feet high. Don’t use rocks that have ever been in water, as they may ex-

plode from the heat. For the top, I originally had a long, flat rock until it was replaced by an artsy, concrete patio stone. The door is made of poured concrete on one side and wood on the other that I just lift into place when needed. Inside the oven is a rack that elevates a pizza stone for the cooking area, and the fire burns on the bottom level directly on top of the sand.

A small fire is fine to cook pizza, but if I bake bread or cake with an active fire,

it will leave a layer of black soot on top. However, since the stone oven allows heat to escape, I need to continually add fuel, so I maintain the heat in the oven by feeding it coals from a fire pit beside the stove.

At home, my husband made a brick oven covered with a layer of concrete. It works on the same principle as the stone oven. However, it is more efficient at holding heat. I can cook pizzas with a flame and then close the doors and bake whatever I want with the bed of coals left behind.

Everything tastes better when cooked outdoors on a stone oven. | KATHY TOIVONEN

Outdoor brick ovens can hold a fire for days. | KATHY TOIVONEN

Pizza can take anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes to cook, depending on many factors. |

The Fire

The kind of wood used will determine the kind of heat produced. I usually start a fire with softwood such as jack pine, because it burns hot and fast and helps the oven get to temperature quickly. I’ll start a fire to heat the chamber at least two hours before I plan to cook in it. Then, to cook pizza, I use small kindling-sized pieces of hardwood, such as poplar, maple, or birch. Be careful not to use birch with the bark on as it will generate a lot of black smoke. The hardwood burns longer and leaves a nice bed of coals to maintain the heat.

The Food

Every summer, I use the stone oven at camp for baking bread, fresh blueberry cake or pie, and even Thanksgiving turkey to kick off hunting season. In the brick oven at home, I love to have pizza parties with family and friends. To bake pizza in the oven, you’ll need a peel to slide the pizza onto the stone. Sprinkle the peel with corn meal to allow the raw pizza to slide off. Also, the oven may have hot spots, so keep an eye out and turn the pizza with tongs when needed.

Each oven will have its own personality. It may take anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes to cook a pizza, depending on many factors, such as how hot the oven gets, what kind of wood you use, how thick the crust is, etc.

Pizza Dough

This recipe will make 2 large pizzas. However, you can double or quadruple the recipe.

If you’re going to go use an outdoor oven, light a fire in the oven first and then start making the dough.

In a medium bowl combine:

½ cup warm water

2 teaspoon honey or sugar

1 ½ tablespoon of fresh yeast (or 2 teaspoon of dry yeast). If you are using fresh yeast, stir in the honey or sugar with the yeast until it becomes a paste and then add to the water. Let rise in a warm place until nice and foamy.

In a large bowl, combine the above with the following:

½ cup warm water

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 ¼ cup whole wheat flour

Mix the above well with a whisk until smooth and then add:

1 cup white flour

Knead on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and satiny. It should be the same

|

consistency as the lobe of your ear. Then put a tablespoon of olive oil in a large bowl and roll the dough around until it is covered in oil. Then cover the bowl and let the dough rise for at least an hour.

Roll out the dough and add sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.

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Pizzas are fun and easy to make with a stone or brick oven.

KATHY TOIVONEN

The Winners!

The North Shore’s Favorite Restaurants

Northern Wilds readers know where to satisfy their wide-ranging appetites. This year, more than 600 people voted in our annual Reader’s Choice Restaurant Awards. Thank you to everyone who participated and to the restaurants who promoted the contest to their customers.

FINE DINING

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd New Scenic Café

3rd Bluefin Grille

STEAK

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd Harbor House Grille

3rd Ely Steakhouse

BURGER

1st My Sister’s Place

2nd Trail Center

3rd Northwoods Café

FISH

1st Dockside

2nd Angry Trout

3rd Lemon Wolf Café

PIZZA

1st Sven & Ole’s

2nd Sydney’s & My Sister’s Place (TIE for 2nd)

BREAKFAST

1st Vanilla Bean

2nd Bluewater Café

3rd Naniboujou

WINE

1st Lutsen Resort

2nd Crooked Spoon

3rd Bluefin Grille

SOUP

1st Naniboujou & Crooked Spoon (TIE for 1st)

2nd Vanilla Bean

SALAD

1st Angry Trout

2nd Blackwoods, Northwoods Grille, New Scenic Café and Vanilla Bean (TIE for 2nd)

COFFEE

1st Java Moose

2nd Vanilla Bean

3rd Mike’s Holiday

MUSIC VENUE

1st Gun Flint Tavern

2nd Papa Charlie’s 3rd Bluefin Grille

HAPPY HOUR

1st Cascade Restaurant

2nd Gun Flint Tavern

3rd Voyageur Brewing

VIEW

1st Sydney’s

2nd Bluefin Grille

3rd Angry Trout

BAKED GOODS

1st World’s Best Donuts

2nd Coho Café

3rd Rustic Inn Café

ETHNIC FARE

1st Gun Flint Tavern

2nd Hughie’s Tacos

3rd Hanabi

USE OF REGIONAL INGREDIENTS

1st Angry Trout

2nd Duluth Grille

3rd Insula

SWEETS

1st Gunflint Mercantile

2nd Beth’s Fudge & Gifts

3rd World’s Best Donuts

REGIONAL

CRAFT BEER

1st Voyageur Brewing

2nd Castle Danger

3rd Gun Flint Tavern

BEER SELECTION

1st Gun Flint Tavern

2nd Voyageur Brewing

3rd 7 West Taphouse

NORTHWOODS CHARACTER

1st Trail Center

2nd Naniboujou

3rd Lemon Wolf Café & My Sister’s Place (TIE for 3rd)

KID-FRIENDLY MENU

1st Bluewater Café & Dairy Queen (TIE for 1st)

2nd My Sister’s Place

VEGETARIANFRIENDLY

1st Duluth Grille

2nd Gun Flint Tavern

3rd New Scenic Café

ARTISTIC FLARE FROM CHEF

1st Crooked Spoon

2nd New Scenic Café

3rd Harbor House Grille

BEST SERVER OR BARTENDER

1st Sara Tate at Bluewater Café

2nd Melanie Stoddard at Naniboujou

3rd Shem Falter at Moguls

TAKE-OUT

1st Sven & Ole’s

2nd My Sister’s Place

3rd Hughie’s Tacos

WORTH THE DRIVE

1st Trail Center

2nd Naniboujou

3rd Vanilla Bean

Bug Repellents

By Kim Falter

On the North Shore, we cannot escape the onslaught of mosquitos, blackflies and ticks headed our way. At worst, we come face to face with insects that carry potentially harmful diseases. At the very least, they leave us with a painful bite. Although we should always be aware of exposure to bug-borne illnesses, we must consider possible side effects from the sprays and creams we put on our skin to avoid these pests. We do not want to contract a debilitating virus, but do we want to expose ourselves to potentially harmful chemicals in the process?

The debate is ongoing. Some say that exposure to the chemicals in bug repellents can lead to chronic problems just as debilitating as the illnesses they are trying to avoid. But if you talk to anyone with an insect-contracted illness, such as Lyme disease, they will definitely extoll the virtues of DEET use.

There is no easy answer. It takes time to understand how an ingredient will affect the general population in the long term, but it is important to know the facts in order to make the right decision for you. Here are the most common active ingredients found in commercial bug repellents:

DEET

DEET is the most prevalent bug repellent on the market today. It was allowed for public use in 1957 and is the only repellent the CDC mentions as safe for protection from Lyme disease. It is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but is noted as an eye irritant. Heavy use of DEET has been linked to neurological problems with reports of dizziness, headaches and rashes from those who use DEET everyday.

DEET has been in use for over 40 years and is now found in 75 percent of our water sources, posing potential risks to aquatic life. Although noted that use in small children could cause neurological issues, such as seizures, risk is minimal for longterm problems. It is known to protect us from ticks and a wide range of mosquito varieties. It does damage products made of plastic, rubber, and vinyl, which means some of our gear and clothing such as sunglasses and backpacks can be ruined by contact with DEET.

The Canadian government recommends DEET in concentrations no higher than 30 percent for those over the age of 12. Studies have shown that 100 percent DEET is no more effective than lower concentrations. Health Canada states that children between the ages of 6 months to 12 years should use DEET sparingly (one application for 6-24 months, up to three for children 2-12 years) and in a 5-10 percent concentration. DEET is not recommended for use in children 6 months or younger.

Picaridin

Approved for use in the U.S. since 2005, this active ingredient tends to test very high in its efficiency at repelling a wide range of insects, very similar to DEET. Yet, unlike DEET, Picaridin is not an eye irritant, does not melt plastics and is devoid of the strong odor. It is approved by the World Health Organization as effective for protection against disease-carrying mosquitos. Although Picaridin does not seem to have the neurotoxicity issues seen in DEET use, this chemical has not been around long enough for us to really know if there is a concern. Its registration with the EPA states that at a concentration of 20 percent it is effective for 8-14 hours, and at 10 percent it is effective for up to 3.5-8 hours.

IR3535

Widely used in Europe for over 20 years, IR3535 has been available in the U.S. since 1999. Similar to DEET, it is a known eye irritant and damaging to plastics. Consumer reports found that IR3535 performed well for protection against deer ticks and against the Culex mosquitos that can carry West Nile virus. Similar in structure to the naturally ocurring amino acid B-alanine, Europeans have reported no health problems associated with this chemical. Concentrations of 10-30 percent are considered the most effective.

Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus

Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus is an oil extracted from the lemon eucalyptus tree native to Australia. This natural oil is refined to concentrate the bug-repelling constituent: para-menthane-3, 8-diol. Not to be confused with the natural lemon eucalyptus essential oil, refined Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus is listed as a biochemical pesticide by the EPA. Due to the risk of allergic skin reactions, this type of bug repellent is not recommended for children under the age of three. Some manufacturers of Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus products do not recommend use when risk of West Nile Virus is high. Concentrations of 20-26 percent are ideal for protection, yet length of protection is less than with those listed above.

Natural Repellents

Plants produce natural chemicals to protect themselves from pests. Essential oil extraction gives us these natural constituents in a pure form that can be used as

a safe, non-toxic alternative to chemical bug repellents. Citronella and lemon eucalyptus essential oils have been widely used in natural bug repellents for their effectiveness at repelling mosquitos. Others commonly known for their ability to repel bugs naturally: catnip, lemongrass, thyme, cedar wood and grapefruit essential oils. These oils have been around for hundreds of years, so their safety is widely accepted.

As with the chemicals listed above, an allergic skin reaction is always possible. It is

also important that essential oils be diluted in a base such as witch hazel, water, a skin care oil such as jojoba, or olive oil. The one drawback to natural repellents is duration of effectiveness. Tests have shown that protection typically only lasts approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours. Also, if you are in a high-risk area for bug-borne diseases, a botanically-based repellent may not give adequate protection.

Great

Marine

Great

Superior

Help Prevent The Spread Of Invasive Plants And Animals.

•

•

•

•

Northern Trails

There is Something About a Canoe...

By Gord Ellis

There is something about a canoe that allows for a great connection to water. In a canoe, you are practically sitting on the water, although there is always a small layer of separation. The canoe is an ancient form of watercraft, yet remains among the most portable, practical types of boat you can own. And they are great to use for fishing. That’s a real bonus.

Like a lot of people in northwestern Ontario, I grew up fishing out of a canoe. My family did regular canoe trips into the Graham area and Quetico, and they all included some angling. We had a classic red cedar strip, but that was mostly saved for day trips to speckled trout and lake trout lakes outside of Thunder Bay. The smell of that cedar strip is the thing I remember the most. The scent was a mix of wood and fiberglass, and the smell only got richer as the sun beat down on it. There is nothing nicer than looking at a gorgeous speckled trout laying in the bottom of a cedar strip. It really is the ultimate trout fishing image. The down sides of that old cedar strip were the general leakiness of it and the weight. I can recall my father groaning under the weight of it on portages.

On our longer canoe trips, we always used aluminum canoes. They were very dependable and durable, but not that much fun to paddle. In fact, they could be a real drag to paddle, as it seemed they disliked moving forward. All that said, when we ran rapids and bounced off rocks that would have splintered a cedar strip and cracked a kevlar, we were ok with the downsides.

Many fish were put in the bottoms of those aluminum canoes, and the bonus of that is that they could be washed out very easily and quickly in the lake. One of the real negatives of using a cedar strip—and to a lesser extent a kevlar—is they hold fish smell. This is a real problem in bear country. More than a few anglers have had the unenviable experience of having a bear try to eat their canoe due to fish smells. Always clean a canoe bottom after a fishing trip.

It’s hard to pick a favorite canoe fishing memory. There are a few. About 25 years ago, my father Gord Sr. and I did a long canoe trip together on the Albany River. It was quite an adventure, done in a wellused aluminum square stern canoe. We

paddled down that great river many miles, then motored our way back up. It was a great time and the fishing for walleye and pike was off the charts.

In one little side channel of the Albany, there was a small rapids that fell into a deep hole. We were fishing for walleye when I saw a large swirl from what had to be from a huge pike. I had rigged a large white spinner bait on a heavy action pike rod, so I bombed it to the base of the rapids and started reeling. Sure enough, that big gator ate the spinner and the fight was on. Dad and I had no idea what we were into until the pike swam under the canoe. We could see its head on one side, and its tail on the other. Massive. The pike towed us around for a few minutes and then it was time to land it. Putting a 44-inch northern into the canoe was potentially dangerous and scary, but it went ok. I’ll never forget seeing that huge fish laying on the floor of the canoe, and covering a good chunk of it. After a couple pics, the huge pike was released.

One of the great things about canoes is they are usually hard to fall out of. For many years, I never tipped a canoe. Never even came close. Then, several years ago, I went on a canoe trip with Shawn Perich and his late father. On a speckled trout lake in the Algoma region, we pulled up our canoes for a break. I was still in the stern of the canoe, and thinking about getting out, when the canoe suddenly tipped and I was in the water. When I surfaced, sputtering in the icy drink, I could see Perich and his father having a little giggle. Both were standing at the bow of the canoe.

The moral? Be careful who you fish with in a canoe!

Devin Ellis fly fishes for brookies while guide Tyler Lancaster holds the canoe on the Keezhik River in 2007. | GORD ELLIS

The author on a canoe trip down the Keezhik River in 2007. | GORD ELLIS

After Supper Walleyes

By Shawn Perich

June is arguably the best fishing month in the Northern Wilds. The water temperatures are generally cool enough for trout, but warm enough to activate other fish species. Walleyes, which are often fickle feeders when the fishing season opens in May, became ravenously hungry during June. Although they are most active during periods of low light, at this time of year you can catch them all day long. Still, the best, most consistent fishing is during the lingering twilight of a June evening.

I like fishing for walleyes at this time of year for a couple of reasons. First, the long days mean that I can leave home after supper, head for a local lake and have plenty of time to catch enough walleyes for a meal. Second, I never tire of experiencing a June sundown, as the evening slowly, reluctantly gives way to the night.

While fishing success is never a sure thing, I usually catch a few walleyes and often my limit. The bulk of my catch may occur within 20 minutes or so, right around sunset. This is when feeding walleyes move from their deeper, daytime haunts toward shallow shorelines to feed. The timing coincides with the moment when the evening attack of mosquito swarms reaches a crescendo. Unlike the fishing, the mosquito attack is a sure thing.

The best evenings for fishing are the ones when the weather is nice and the day’s breeze is likely to die down. Cold, rainy weather, common in June, can put a damper in the action. Fishing is especially tough when a cold front is arriving on a northwest wind or when a the wind is out of the east. When it comes to walleyes, the old saying, “When the wind is from the east the fish bite least” is often true.

I like to begin fishing an hour or two before the prime time. Generally, I stick to fishing near shorelines where a gravel or rocky bottom slopes upward from deeper water. I often fish bars running out from shoreline points, along the outside edge of emerging aquatic vegetation or near irregularities on the shoreline. Generally, I avoid rock outcroppings or muddy bottoms, al -

though in some lakes the latter will attract feeding walleyes.

While my canoe may be over 6- or 8-foot depths, from that position I can cast to the shoreline shallows or into depths of 12 feet or more. In the early evening, I’ll cast to deeper water until I catch a walleye. Then I have a starting point for my fishing.

On these evenings, I leave my tackle box at home. Nearly all of my evening fishing is done with 1/8-ounce jigs tipped with leeches. I like fluorescent green or orange jigs, but other colors work, too. If you aren’t getting bites or your fishing partner is catching more fish, try changing jig colors. Often, I flatten the barb on the jig hook to make it easier to unhook fish. Doing so doesn’t seem to have a negative effect on my fishing success.

The fishing technique is pretty simple: keep your jig on or near the bottom. Sometimes I make casts and slowly hop the jig across the bottom as I retrieve it. When I’m positioned in the right place and the walleyes are really biting, I may just lower the jig to the bottom off the side of the canoe. This is an especially good way for novice or casual anglers to fish.

While you may get a few hard strikes, very often a walleye bite feels like a little bit of weight on the end of your line. Don’t set the hook immediately. Instead, give the walleye a moment to inhale the leech. If you get a bite and miss the fish, put on a fresh leech and cast again to the same place. Often a hungry walleye will go after the second bait.

Set the hook with a quick lift of the rod tip. Keep a bend in the rod as you reel in the fish, but don’t “horse” it. Despite their reputation as wimpy fighters, walleyes don’t easily give up. Make sure the drag of the reel is set loose enough that a hooked walleye can peel out line when it tries to swim away from you. Take your time reeling in keepers.

Most walleyes are lost as they near the boat. While experienced anglers can lift a typical 15-incher into the boat with a quick smooth motion, carry a landing net, especially if there is a chance to catch bigger

walleyes or pike. Don’t swipe at the fish with the net. Instead, lead the walleye into a half-submerged net and scoop it up.

I often toss my keepers into a 5 gallon bucket to avoid wasting precious fishing

time threading them on a stringer. Evening walleyes seem to travel in small schools. When you catch one, try to bait up and quickly get your line back in the water, because you’ll likely catch another. I often

The best walleye fishing occurs in the evening. | AMBER PRATT

catch two or three and then experience a lull in the action. On most nights, it won’t be long before another school moves in. If I don’t have more action within a few minutes, I move the canoe a few yards to try another spot.

On a typical evening, you’ll start out catching walleyes from deeper water but they will move shallower as the twilight deepens. The final fish you catch may be in just a few inches of water along the shoreline. Suddenly, just before dark, the action will come to a halt, as though someone flipped an off switch. I’ve been told you can continue catching walleyes at this point by casting and retrieving floating Rapalas along the shoreline, but the technique doesn’t work well for me.

More often than not, when the walleyes stop biting, I already have several of them flopping in my five gallon bucket. A chill descends with the darkness, so I put on my jacket and head for the landing. A note to the newbies: carry a flashlight for the return trip and, unless you are very familiar with the lake, start for shore before it becomes so dark that you can’t find the landing. When I’m fishing unfamiliar waters, I always make a point to remember landmarks, such as a prominent white pine, a shoreline point or the shape of the bay where the landing is located, so it is easier to find my way when it is time to head home.

Canoe Country

The Northern Wilds offers a multitude of wilderness areas to explore. The Boundary Waters alone offers over 1,000 lakes to discover. And each area offers a distinctly different experience, so our veteran wilderness explorers let us know what paddlers can expect.

Gunflint Experience

By Ada Igoe

The easy decision when planning a summer paddling adventure is to head to the Boundary Waters, but anyone who’s decided to visit the BWCAW must then make the tougher secondary decision: whether to visit the east or west side of America’s most popular wilderness area. Known colloquially as the Ely and Gunflint Trail sides, Boundary Water locals are eager to have you believe that their side of the BWCAW is best.

It might seem a little strange that locals are so keen to point out the differences between the Ely and Gunflint sides. After all, you’ll find great natural beauty no matter which BWCAW entry point you travel through. It all boils down to vast tracts of water, rocks and trees tucked inside the Superior National Forest.

As someone who grew up in Grand Marais and has spent her adult life on the Gunflint Trail, I’ve always believed the eastern side of the Boundary Waters offers the superior canoeing experience.

The first contributing factor in the Gunflint Trail’s “superior” canoe country experience? Lake Superior. If you want to get to the Boundary Waters fast, you choose an entry point near Ely. If you want to go to the Boundary Waters and have the quintessential Northwoods experience as you go, you choose an entry point on the Gunflint Trail. The two-hour drive along Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Marais on Highway 61 is as much part of the Gunflint Boundary Waters experience as the actual paddling is. When you spot the Duluth lift bridge, with Lake Superior sparkling in the distance from the top of Thompson Hill on I-35, you’ve already arrived, even though you’re still three hours away from your canoe put-in point.

The town of Ely is defined by its proximity to the Boundary Waters, while the Gunflint side’s small town hub, Grand Marais, is another thing the Gunflint side has going for it. Grand Marais is a unique mix of coastal town, arts community, and canoe country hub that’s a destination in and of itself. If you end your canoe trip by mid-morning, you can be “in town” in time to grab a pizza lunch at Sven and Ole’s and score a dozen of World’s Best Donuts for the road home. The town also tends to be on the cutting edge of tourism trends. Folk schools? Canoe expos? You read about them first in Grand Marais.

When you paddle off of the Gunflint Trail, you get to experience a close-knit (and 57-mile long) community. The Gunflint Trail is much more than a two-lane, dead end highway. It boasts community centers, a historical society, and a small museum. There’s a sense of cooperation on the trail, where businesses collaborate rather than com -

[TOP LEFT] Paddling along a pine-clad shoreline. | MICHAEL FURTMAN

[ABOVE] A beautiful sunrise over East Bearskin Lake. | ADA IGOE

pete. The community works in tandem with government agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the Minnesota DNR to keep boat landings, hiking trails, portages and other amenities in good repair to give visitors the best experience possible. Nowhere is that sense of community commonality felt more than at Trail Center Bar and Restaurant, where anglers who spent the day fishing from their motorboat on Saganaga Lake peacefully share the bar with people who just spent two weeks paddling in the Boundary Waters’ interior.

The first time you paddle through the Gunflint Boundary Waters, you might notice that fellow paddlers are fewer and farther between than in the western Boundary Waters. One of the most quantifiable differences between the Ely and Gunflint Trail Boundary Waters is the fact that BWCAW entry points accessed from the Gunflint Trail have lower daily entry quotas. This affords a sense of deeper wilderness and higher probability of seeing wildlife.

Once you make your way to the eastern side of the Boundary Waters, the “must-see” places to visit are countless: Seagull Lake; the Voyageur highway along the U.S./ Canada border from Grand Portage through Saganaga Lake and beyond; Johnson’s Falls; the Rose Lake overlook on the Border Route Trail; the 420-rod Tuscarora portage; the beauty of Lizz Lake; Clearwater Lake’s towering palisades. You can spend a lifetime on the Gunflint Trail and still not know all of its secrets.

Still, it’s difficult to articulate what makes the Gunflint side so special, yet people sense the place’s mystique almost immediately. Last summer, I heard an Ely canoe trip veteran grumble before he headed out on his first Gunflint Trail BWCAW trip, “The Gunflint better be great, because it’s a way shorter drive to Ely.”

And guess what? He has already been back to the Gunflint Trail.

Quetico Calling

By Michael Furtman

There is mystery surrounding Quetico Provincial Park; that northern half of the beloved canoe country. To many people, it signifies an ideal; what they wish the Boundary Waters could be. For these people, the Quetico is a place of solitude, of exploration, of magic.

Others are intimidated by the Quetico. They see it as possibly too remote, a place where they fear they will be tested beyond their abilities. They’ve heard stories of difficult routes or portages that are hard to find.

In reality, the Quetico is probably both. It does indeed offer more solitude than the Boundary Waters. There are more “off the beaten track” routes. And yes, sometimes on these routes, portages can be difficult to find and traverse. But anyone who has polished their abilities on a few BWCAW trips would have the skills needed to visit the Quetico. What defines the Quetico is not any dramatic physical difference, but instead is the result of management choices and fortunate geography.

Both areas are the epitome of canoe country. The majority of portages are short

and the lakes seemingly numberless. Both share the beauty of the Canadian Shield, the sweeping granite underpinnings of that part of the world. Though some of the flora in the south central part of the Boundary Waters is more deciduous, much of the habitat and topography of the Boundary Waters and Quetico is very similar. Aside from the Forest Service firegrates, most BWCAW campsites could be easily mistaken for a site in the Quetico.

The biggest difference between the two is the level of solitude, plain and simple.

That greater sense of solitude is the result of Quetico’s physical shape and the park’s management strategies. Unlike the Boundary Waters, which is long (east to west) and narrow (north to south), Quetico is about as wide as it is long. Though both contain nearly the same acreage—about one million acres—how that acreage is accessed plays considerable impact on its use.

Quetico is buffered on the south by the Boundary Waters, and has no roads leading to either the west or east sides, unlike the BWCAW, which is bisected by two major roads, allowing access to it along its length. While access to the Quetico is good from

the north, most Canadians choose to recreate elsewhere (over 80 percent of Quetico visitors are Americans). The necessity of applying for a Remote Areas Border Crossing Permit from Canada Customs so that one can legally enter from the U.S. is a step some are unwilling to take. Thus, simply getting into the Quetico is more difficult, which strips away almost all day use, and a significant number of overnight visitors.

Yet, even if access were easier, the park’s management would preserve a great deal of that solitude. On average, Quetico allows about one-quarter the number of permits than the Forest Service allocates for the Boundary Waters. In recent years, because the user fees to visitors of the Quetico have risen to be significantly higher per person than in the BWCAW, affordability has become an issue for some. There are times now when Quetico permits go unused, further reducing visitor numbers.

The end result is that once one does enter the Quetico, you can expect to see few people, even during August, the peak month. Two years ago in mid-August, Mary Jo and I entered from the U.S., took two portages into the park, and camped

on a glorious point of rock for four nights. Except for entering, we saw no other people. We moved on to yet another lake the next day, seeing no one while we paddled, and no one for the following three days at the next camp. It wasn’t until we returned to the busy border route that we began to encounter other paddlers.

Besides solitude, Quetico offers a nearly endless choice of routes, some obvious, some obscure. If you’re the kind of wilderness enthusiast that wants to cover a lot of territory, wants to explore places that few others have seen, this is the place to go. Just last year, Mary Jo and I took a route that was more traveled by moose than by humans, and where only a very experienced eye could discern where the portages were. The fact that those kinds of places still exist is a balm for our souls. None of this should be construed as a slap in the face to the Boundary Waters, which is just as beautiful, and which I love just as much. They complement each other.

However, if what you want is an extended trip through more remote country, one with the chance for true solitude, I think you hear the Quetico calling.

Plan a canoe trip to one of the wilderness areas located in the Northern Wilds. | MICHAEL FURTMAN

Canoeing Wabakimi

By Erin Altemus

At 2.3 million acres, Wabakimi Provincial Park is as large as Quetico Provincial Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) combined. The large expanse of wilderness is located a few hours drive north and northwest of Thunder Bay. While the area is incredibly remote, wilderness enthusiasts familiar with the BWCAW ought to prepare themselves for a somewhat different interpretation of wilderness in Canada.

What makes the area remote is the lack of road access. Most canoeists will either take the train into the park or charter a float plane. The train is cheaper of course, and the schedule can be found at www.viarail.com. The train picks up in Armstrong or Savant Lake on opposite days and with an advance notice, will stop anywhere along the track to drop your group, gear and canoes.

The prevalence of fishing camps within the park can make the wilderness experi

ence feel less remote. After seeing no one at all for a few days, you may suddenly come upon a group of fishermen in motorboats—they might offer a cold “tinnie,”— the Canadian term for beer. The park is multi-use in this way. Float planes and motorboats are a common sight.

There are very few paddlers compared to the BWCAW—campsites are first-come, first-serve, and pretty much wherever you can tell someone camped before. There are huge granite outcroppings where the lichens and moss are untouched—and most of these sites are used a scant few times each summer—much different than the most popular designated sites in the Boundary Waters that are full every night of the week from June to September.

Also seen is evidence of the historic and continued land used by the First Nation people. Pictographs denote stories from long ago, and there are also camps set up where local First Nation people continue to come each year to hunt and fish.

Whitewater paddling skills are recommended. Most of the canoe routes travel river systems, and portages around the easy rapids are not always maintained—everybody runs them. Inexperience and mishap is common enough that you might see an abandoned canoe hung up mid-river, or in a tangled lump in the woods.

Common canoe routes follow the Allanwater River, the Flindt River, the Brightsand Loop and the Kopka River. The Kopka is mostly outside the boundaries of Wabakimi, but the scenery is extraordinary as the river plunges over several large falls as it makes its way to Lake Nipigon. Notably, one of the portages is called Cliff Portage, and a permanent rope and pulley system exists there for the ease of lowering canoes and gear to the bottom.

Moose and woodland caribou abound and the fishing is like visiting your local trout pond. Toss in a wormy lure on a jig below any falls, and voila! Walleye dinner.

One of several large waterfalls on the Kopka River. | MATTHEW SCHMIDT

Unique

Wabakimi Canoe Outfitters will help you plan and execute a trip. Located outside of Armstrong, they can provide shuttle service to the train and pick you up after the trip. They have B&B rooms and rental gear available. Check out their website at www.wabakimi.com

Permits are issued per person, per night within Wabakimi. If you are camping outside of the park on Crown Lands (similar to US National Forest), there is also a per person, per night fee that can be waived if you use the services of a local outfitter. See www.ontarioparks.com/park /wabakimi for more info.

Photo by Paul Sundberg

Gitchi Gami State Trail

Pure Outdoors

By Rob Drieslein

My young family’s first trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness occurred in 2007. To avoid using a work vacation day, we loaded our van during a muggy July evening before sleeping at our Twin Cities home. At 2 a.m., we climbed into our vehicle, and my wife and three kids slept while I drove (and enjoyed light traffic) up highways 35 and 169. Rolling into Ely at 6:30 a.m., a 30-degree drop in temperature greeted us at our canoe outfitter. My bride stepped out of the vehicle and—still half asleep and shivering—cried, “Where have you taken me!?”

On the doorstep to the Minnesota crown jewel we call the B-Dub, Ely indeed can feel like the gateway to another world. I’ve taken wilderness trips across North America, and those last outposts of civilization often are as memorable as the landscape itself. From the pent-up anticipation of hitting the trail, to the relief of a hot shower and meal at vacation’s end, you can’t beat a community that embraces wilderness travelers. When I tell my kids (now there’s four of them) that we’re going to Ely, they expect an adventure.

I’ve camped off the Gunflint twice and visited Quetico, but the western portion of

the BWCAW accessible via the Echo Trail and Fernberg Road from Ely keeps calling me back. The fun of visiting sites like the International Wolf Center, the shops on Sheridan Street, and the Soudan Mine tour off Hwy. 169 en route, certainly influences our annual decision to visit the Ely-area Boundary Waters. But the surrounding woods and lakes seal the deal.

You can find a route in this region for every trip. Want big water with classic Minnesota northwoods views across windswept lakes? Basswood and Snowbank offer both plus good fishing and access to the entire wilderness and border waters beyond.

Want incredible scenery? Head through the Mudro entry point (No. 22) and the Horse River to Lower Basswood Falls while paddling toward great fishing in Crooked Lake. Marvel at native pictographs as you fish the fertile waters for bass and pike.

Want rugged, week-long treks that will test your mettle? Consider the Little Trout Lake Loop via entry point No. 4 (Crab Lake) or the Giant Portages Loop via No. 6 (Slim Lake). Have a young family and want to avoid portages uphill both ways? The Lake One (entry point 30) has served my clan well for two trips—the first east through the so-called number lakes to In -

sula and another down the scenic (though buggy in 2013) Kawishiwi River. We’re planning a 2016 trip east through the entry point to view the regrowth from the 92,682-acre Pagami Creek Fire of 2011.

The western BWCAW surrounding Ely generally has a reputation for easier, flatter portages, and the Lake One entry point perhaps best exemplifies that terrain. Just be prepared to see more people here than at other entry points.

My friend and outdoors writer Tim Lesmeister has camped in the BWCAW dozens of times and traversed most of its lakes and portages. In recent years, he’s focused on the Ely side for one simple reason: better fishing. Though you’ll find fewer lake trout, the generally shallower, more fertile lakes in the western BWCAW provide the smallmouth bass-pike-walleye fishery Lesmeister loves.

He ranks the Fall Lake to Basswood route high on his fishing priorities list, though he believes too many anglers ignore the fine angling in between on Newton Lake. Anywhere lakes narrow into riverine environments demand angling attention, Lesmeister says, especially in September when he believes fall turnover seriously disrupts lake fishing in the B-Dub.

“Where most people go wrong in those lakes around Ely is they fish too deep,” Lesmeister said. “Look atop rock piles or below falls, and vertical jig or cast a jig-andtwister-tail combo. I’m usually working 12 feet or less all open water season.”

Final Lesmeister fishing tip: Wherever you camp in the BWCAW, bring a couple mesh bags to fill with rocks so you can anchor over your jiggin’ honey holes.

Just a 4 1/2-hour drive from my Twin Cities home, Ely is an easy drive. And if I need last-minute gear or trip advice, the community contains 22 canoe trip outfitters. Before meeting my maker, I intend to spend many more trips exploring the entire BWCAW, but here’s betting the western side through Ely will host the majority of those epic expeditions.

The Kawishiwi and LaCroix ranger districts manage most entry points for the Superior National Forests in the Ely area. For more information, call: Kawishiwi at (218) 365-7600; or LaCroix at (218) 666-0020

The author’s family frequently camps in the Ely BWCAW. | ROB DRIESLEIN

Grand Marais area fisheries survey work

GRAND MARAIS—Fisheries staff from the Minnesota DNR Grand Marais area office will conduct surveys and assessments on several Cook County lakes and streams during the next few months. Waters scheduled for surveys or assessments (by week) include:

May 23 Survey Brule River

May 30 Continue Brule River, mark Splake in Thrasher Lake

Jun. 6 Continue Brule River, survey Talus, Missing Link and Ram lakes

Jun. 13 Recapture Splake in Thrasher Lake, continue Brule River, survey John Lake

Jun. 20 Survey Crooked, Owl and South lakes

Jun. 27 Survey Olga, Moore, Hand, Iron, and Little Iron lakes

Jul. 4 Survey Rice, Wampus and Hungry Jack lakes

Jul. 11 Survey Tom, Homer and Flour lakes

Jul. 18 Survey Romance Lake and continue Brule River survey

Jul. 25 Continue Brule River, survey Poplar and East Bearskin lakes

Aug. 1 Continue Poplar, survey Crystal and Devilfish lakes, survey Mistletoe Creek and Onion River

Aug. 8 Survey White Pine, Iron, Little Iron lakes, survey Portage Brooke, and Elbow Creek

Aug. 15 Survey Ray Lake. Assess fish populations on the Flute Reed River, Cascade River, Kadunce Creek, Devil Track River and Irish Creek

Aug. 22 Survey Devilfish and Two Island lakes. Assess fish populations on Kimball and Junco creeks

Aug. 29 Survey West Bearskin and Swamp lakes (near Poplar Lake). Assess fish populations in Temperance River and Gauthier Creek

Sep. 5 Survey Mavis and Gust lakes

Sep. 12 Survey Cherokee and Pine lakes (near McFarland Lake)

Sep. 19 Survey Rose and West Pike lakes

Sep. 26 Survey Moss Lake

Oct. 3 Survey Moosehorn and Shoe lakes

Oct. 10 Survey Pine Mountain Lake, lake trout spawntake in Mountain Lake

Oct. 17 Survey Pancore and Olson lakes, complete lake trout spawn on Mountain Lake

Preliminary results for many of the 2016 surveys should be available this fall. Final reports will be completed by the spring of 2017. Final lake survey results will be available online at www.mndnr.gov/lakefind or from the Grand Marais area fisheries office. Questions

Rainbow Trout are among the fish species to be surveyed. | STOCK

and general information about area lakes and streams can be addressed to the DNR’s Grand Marais area fisheries office by calling 218-387-6021 or emailing grandmarais.fisheries@state.mn.us

WHY GO: Devil Track Lake is one of the most popular and most developed lakes in Cook County. Yet, it’s a lake where lake whitefish have persisted. While DNR periodically needs to give the walleye population an assist with supplemental stockings, there is some natural reproduction on the lake. There’s a pretty decent population of smaller walleye in the lake, too.

ACCESS: The U.S. Forest Service owns a public access and seaplane dock (not to be confused with the seaplane base), on the north shore of the lake. There’s parking for 20 vehicles. The lot is on Hwy. 57.

VITALS: This 1,867.5-acre Cook County lake is north of Grand Marais. It has a maximum depth of 50 feet and water clarity down to 8.6 feet, according to Minnesota DNR’s most recent 2012 survey of the lake.

GAME SPECIES PRESENT: Walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, smallmouth bass and whitefish.

SUMMER ‘EYES: Like so many other walleye lakes in Cook County, Devil Track is mostly an open-water walleye lake, not known much for a winter bite, but it’s a decent place to wet a line. Though you are more likely to run into fish between 10 and 13 inches.

“We usually get a few fish between the 25- and 30-inch mark,” said Matt Weberg, DNR’s Grand Marais area assistant fisheries manager.

DNR has a schedule to assess the walleye hatch frequently, and when the number of young-of-the-year walleyes falls below a certain level, DNR responds with a supplemental stocking. In the past 10 years, the lake was stocked in 2013, 2011 and 2006.

DEVIL TRACK LAKE

But some years, walleyes reproduce naturally—years such as last—when the number of young walleye exceeded that mark. DNR won’t assess this year’s hatch, but will likely take another look next year.

“We don’t want to stock walleyes on top of walleyes,” he said.

NORTHERN PIKE: The lake has some northerns in it, though it isn’t particularly known for many trophy-sized pike, Weberg said. Recent surveys have showed average numbers of small- to medium-sized pike, with a majority falling between 20 and 30 inches. The lake maintains a cool water habitat during the summer months, a key component to growing trophy pike. While there remains a small chance at one of these fish, it has given up a few fish of 10 pounds or heavier in the past.

SMALLMOUTH BASS: Smallmouth bass have become more of a fishery on the lake, since they were first discovered in the lake in the late 1970s. The most recent survey showed the highest catch rate of smallies to date, with most fish longer than 12-inches.

OTHER SPECIES: Devil Track has held onto its whitefish population, and a small group of anglers continue to fish for them during the fall netting season, Weberg said. There’s also a sizeable yellow perch population in the lake. Those fish are main forage in the lake, though few of these fish get to the size where they’d be of much interest to anglers. — Javier Serna

Stojo Pocket Cup

www.stojo.com

The Stojo cup is a collapsible, portable silicone cup, made from safe, recyclable materials. There are no BPAs, phthalates, glues or lead used. It is also dishwasher and microwave safe. This cup is great when you’re on the go, since it quickly and easily collapses and expands. It also has an integrated heat sleeve. It’s easy to clean and store, taking up very little space. I look forward to using it backpacking, hiking and camping. Visit www.stojo.com for more info.—Breana Roy

Tempt Me: The Fine Art of Minnesota Cooking

By Kathryn Strand Koutsky & Linda Koutsky Minnesota Historical Society Press, $24.95

This book is more than just a cook book: It’s a collec tion of vintage recipes, evocative and colorful illustrations, and vivid vintage advertising. Readers will take a tour of Minnesota’s food sensations from the 1880s through the 1980s, showcasing each era’s kitchens and elevating food and cooking to fine art. Recipes include bread pudding, apple dumplings, beer-cheese soup, beef hash, and Great Aunt Vivian’s Really Good Hot Spam Sandwich.—Breana Roy

By Dr. Jim Morris D.Ed. 90-Minute Books, $10

Over the past 15 years, Dr. Jim Morris has coached and counselled several thousand smokers on how to break the habit and improve other aspects of their lifestyle. In this short but concise book, Morris offers advice on diet and food, body weight, medicines, confidence and reaching personal goals. As he says, “It’s never too late to increase your chances of living a very long and healthy life.” His simple methods can be followed by everyone, smoker or not.

Breana Roy

northern sky

JUNE 2016

By Deane Morrison— MINNESOTA STARWATCH

Saturn has been playing second fiddle to Mars all year, but in June the red planet fades while the ringed planet reaches its pinnacle.

Saturn’s big moment comes overnight on the 2nd-3rd, when Earth laps it in the orbital race. At that time, Saturn will be opposite the sun in the sky and up all night. Also, its rings are now very favorably tilted for telescopic viewing.

Look for Saturn about 90 minutes after sunset in the southeast. It’s the bright light east, of relatively luminous Mars, which moves west against the background of stars until the 29th. Just below and between the planets is Antares, the red heart of Scorpius. You may want to see all these objects in the first week of June, while Mars is still very bright and no moon interferes.

Jupiter is high in the southwest, below Leo, the lion. Between Jupiter and Mars shines Spica, the brightest star in Virgo, the maiden. Above Spica and Mars—high in the south—is Arcturus, the beacon of Bootes, the herdsman.

Looking north, the Big Dipper hangs upside down. To the lower right, the Little Dipper seems to stand upright and on the tip of its handle is Polaris, the North Star. This is a good time to trace the form of Draco, the dragon, as it snakes from its head near the bright star Vega, in the east-northeast, then around the bowl of the Little Dipper, to its tail between the dippers. A star chart will help.

On the 20th, we get two notable events. A full moon, known to Algonquin Indians as the full strawberry moon, arrives at 6:02 a.m. However, it will have set by then; it’s best seen from 4:30-5 a.m. or the evening before. The second event is the summer solstice, arriving at 5:34 p.m. At that moment, the sun reaches a point directly over the Tropic of Cancer and summer officially begins.

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 www.d.umn.edu/ planet.

Wild Traditions

Cordage: an Ancient Skill with Modern-day Uses

By Julia Prinselaar

If you’ve ever had to bind, tie or weave materials together, chances are you’ve utilized the product of an ancient survival skill: making cordage.

Rope, twine, string—all of these are different types of cordage. Traditionally, the fibers from certain plants were (and still are) twisted and wrapped together to form long, sturdy strands that were then woven into garments, baskets, household items and tools. Today, many of these items are made from synthetic materials like nylon, but they’re still produced using the same methods from thousands of years ago.

A few summers back, I was camping in British Columbia and sat across from a woman who was crocheting a dish cloth from a dark green ball of what looked like handmade twine.

“What is that made from?” I asked out of curiosity.

“Nettle!” she replied.

Up to this point, I had only come to appreciate this plant in the way of food. Packed with magnesium, iron and calcium, I’ve cooked nettle leaves in pastas and stews, and blended it in smoothies as a replacement for spinach. But using nettle to make stuff? I was impressed.

My camper friend explained to me how the woody bark from certain herbaceous plants like dogbane, stinging nettle, milkweed and wild hemp make great cordage, especially for tight and fine weaving. Interesting fact: According to the BBC, the German army used nettle fabric to make

army uniforms during World War I.

Even with larger trees, the inner bark of aspen and willow is soft and flexible enough to make mats, storage baskets, and even rough clothing, as was commonly practiced by indigenous tribes living in the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Using cedar bark, they made an impressive variety of utility items—from blankets and shawls, to leggings and hats—by peeling the bark from the wood, softening the fibers, twisting and weaving them together.

Inspired by the versatility of nettle, I had to try making cordage from it myself.

When it comes to harvesting this plant, a pair of gloves will help you get the job done efficiently. You can use bare hands if you’ve got nothing else: simply pick off a leaf (avoid touching the underside), wrap it around the stalk of the plant, and carefully rub off all the prickly hairs from the base to the top. If you get stung, don’t worry. The tiny hairs are laced with formic acid and can actually do some good. On continents where nettle grows, it has developed a reputation as a treatment for arthritis. Lashing swollen joints with stinging nettles is a practice known as urtication (from nettle’s Latin name, Urtica dioca) and dates back thousands of years.

Once the fresh stalks are free of leaves and prickly hairs, the outer layer can be peeled off—the goal being to harvest long, evenly-sized strips. These can be dried, then lightly worked and softened before being twisted into cordage.

Alternatively, the stalks can be dried entirely, then gently pounded with a rock to crush and separate the pith from the fiber ribbons.

To make strong cordage, I’ve always relied on the reverse wrap method. Start out by taking two strips of fiber and folding them in two, so you have two sets of ribbons. Then with your fingers, twist each set in one direction, then wrap in the opposite direction. The friction causes the fibers to stay together—it’s that simple. You can continue doing this to make your ideal

length of cord. When you run out of material, take another piece of fiber and splice on additional pieces. Make sure that your ends are at uneven lengths so that you don’t have new pieces coming in at the same intervals, which could create weak points in the cordage. When you’re finished, simply knot, wrap or weave the ends back into the already existing cordage.

If you don’t have access to inner bark or plant stalks growing in your area, you

can always practice with materials from a craft store. Raffia works great and often comes dyed in vibrant colors. Even if you’re not using cordage in a survival situation, it can come in handy in all sorts of circumstances. Try making a small length to tie a bouquet of flowers or to wrap a gift box. Experimenting with different fibers, thicknesses and colours of cordage can help connect our modern day needs to an ancient skill.

Cordage is commonly used in basket weaving. | JULIA PRINSELAAR

A small patch of springtime stinging nettle found in a back lane.

| JULIA PRINSELAAR

Strange Tales

The Music Legends of Northern Wilds

By Elle AndraWarner

While Wildwood, New Jersey claims to be the birthplace of Rock and Roll after Bill Haley and the Comets performed “Rock Around the Clock” for the first time on May 29, 1954, it is Duluth and Thunder Bay that can lay claim to being the birthplaces of two Rock ‘n Roll legends: Bob Dylan and Bobby Curtola.

Canada’s Rock and Roll Legend was born Robert Allen “Bobby” Curtola on April 17, 1943 in Port Arthur (now part of Thunder Bay). He grew up on Stephen Street; attended St. James Public School and Lakeview High School; pumped gas at his father’s garage; and, played high school dances with his band, Bobby and the Bobcats. Then at age 16, he became a national rock ‘n roll star.

The song that put him on the road to fame was “Hand in Hand With You,” first played by Bobby and the Bobcats at a Lakeview High assembly in the fall of 1959, and written by Dyer and Basil Hurdon who became his first managers. Recorded as a ‘45’ in a local radio station and released in January 1960, it quickly became a Canadian hit and Bobby’s popularity, dubbed “Curtolamania,” caught the attention of national media. They tagged him Canada’s first teen idol, describing him as charismatic, clean-cut with “handsome boy next door looks” and a silvery tenor voice. In March, he opened the Bob Hope Show in Winnipeg; toured Western Canada in the fall; and in 1961 was in Nashville making records for RCA.

In 1962, “Fortune Teller” became his first international hit, selling more than 2.5 million worldwide. The hits continued, includ -

ing “Hitchhiker,” “Don’t You Sweetheart Me,” and “Aladdin.” His is career sky-rocketed with TV appearances on shows like American Bandstand and The Ed Sullivan Show, multi-tours with Dick Clark and his Cavalcade of Stars, and performing in concerts around the world.

Remember the Coca-Cola jingle, “Things Go Better with Coke?” Bobby signed an exclusive contract with Coca-Cola in 1964 to be their Canadian spokesperson and sang that jingle as well as “The Real Thing” which he co-wrote.

Bobby’s music dominated the Canadian pop charts in the 1960s, earning 25 Canadian Gold singles and 12 Canadian Gold Albums (first Canadian to get a Gold album). In the 1970s, his singing career grew to a new successful path after signing a multi-million dollar Las Vegas contract, where he headlined for over 20 years. His friend Elvis used to drop in to see his shows. After his death, Elvis’s family gave Bobby the jewelled-gold ring Elvis used to wear while performing in Vegas.

His long list of accomplishments and awards include being awarded a “Member of the Order of Canada” by the Canadian government in 1998 for his contribution to Canadian Pop Music and his humanitarian work around the world.

Across the border in Minnesota in the late 1950s, another future legend was getting started in music. Born in Duluth as Robert Allen Zimmerman on May 24, 1941, he was raised in Hibbing after his parents moved there when he was six. As a teen, he listened to rock ‘n roll; played guitar and harmonica; formed several rock ‘n roll bands while attending Hibbing High School; moved to Minneapolis in September 1959; enrolled at University of Minnesota; performed at coffeehouses; lived in Dinkytown (a student community beside the university); and started calling himself Bob Dylan. He legally changed it to Robert Dylan in August 1962.

Dylan dropped out of school in May 1960. In January 1961, he hitchhiked to New York to perform and visit his musical idol Woody Guthrie. He played clubs

Bob Dylan at the Azkena Rock Fest 2010 in Spain.

in Greenwich Village, signed on with Columbia Records in October, and put out his first album “Bob Dylan” in March 1962, featuring a mix of folk, blues, and gospel. Later that year, he went to England, appeared in a BBC Television drama and played in London folk clubs.

Dylan was gaining popularity as a singer-songwriter when his second album “The Freewheeling’ Bob Dylan” was released in May 1963 and included songs others labelled ‘protest songs,’ like “Blowin’ In the Wind,” “Masters of War,” and “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall.” Journalists began calling him, ‘the voice of his generation” and his music revolutionized rock. His lyrics became the subject of analysis and debates.

In the 1970s, Dylan was living in Greenwich Village when he received an Honorary Doctorate in music from Princeton University. Among his many other awards, Dylan is an inductee in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, received Grammy Awards, and an Oscar for “Things Have Changed.” In 2012, he was awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama. Since June 7, 1988, Dylan has been on his famous The Never Ending Tour. During the 1990s and 2000s, he played about a 100 concerts a year, including one in Thunder Bay on August 27, 1992 at the Fort William Gardens.

Both Curtola and Dylan share some interesting parallels. Both have the same first and middle names, “Robert Allen;” started their careers in high school bands; were pioneers in shaping pop music; produced their most famous music in the 1960s; sold millions of records; received their nation’s highest civilian honours; were married twice and have children; and continue to be active performers after more than 57 years. And both continue to be recognized as music legends.

The Bobcats, featuring Bobby on vocals, Ron Day on drums, Brian Merritt on rhythm guitar, Dave Turner on piano, and Al “Slats” Selic on lead guitar. | THUNDER BAY MUSEUM

“Music was limitless at that time. It wasn’t about being a Canadian or American—it was about the hits. If you had a rock ’n’ roll hit, you were in the gang with all of them. You got on the bus with Dick Clark.”— Bobby Curtola as quoted in “Bobby Curtola: Rise of a Canadian teen idol” by Julijana Capone.

6 LAKE SUPERIOR ISLANDS

New Levels of Service

2 to 95 acres. Starting at $90,000 USD OLIVER LAKE North shore. 215.5 acre parcel with 3900 feet of lake frontage. Rugged property-water

Lake Superior adventure. $249,000 CDN LITTLE TROUT BAY

Beaver Bay, MN 55601

“The North Shore’s oldest settlement”

Windsong Cottages Townhome Association, individually owned Lake Superior Townhomes on 500’ of Lake Superior shoreline. Optional rental pool, City water & sewer, indoor pool and sauna, direct access to Gitchi-Gami bike trail and SHT, 11mi to Gooseberry, 8mi to Tettegouche and 5mi to Split Rock.A short walk to five different restaurants and many local shops.

Windsong #626 Beaver Bay MN, $319,900

MLS 4584150 3bd/3ba, 1840sf end unit built in 2004 and currently in rental pool. Open layout great for entertaining year round! Gas fireplaces in the living room and the master bedroom. In-floor heat in the baths. Large deck off the dining room and 2nd floor balcony deck off the master bedroom, enjoy coffee and the sunrise over Lake Superior. Large basement storage for your bikes, canoes, kayaks and skis.

1.24 acre Lake View lot with insulated three car garage built in 2014. New Asphalt driveway added and power on site.

Windsong #608 Beaver Bay MN, $419,900

3bd/3ba 1840sf carefully maintained Lake Front end unit with an extraordinary view, built in 2003. Open layout on the main floor with expansive lake views. Upgraded carpet and hardwoods, in-floor heat in baths, custom deck off the dining room overlooking the lake, upgraded kitchen appliances and W/D, upgraded lighting and ceiling fans, added closet space, platform/storage system in basement, back up generator. Too many extras to list...

BY OVER $100,000!!! Now offered at $635,000

Lutsen, MN 1044 Caribou Trail MLS# 2020244 $319,900 Year round home on bay of Caribou Lake. Access from Caribou Tr. This 150’ lakeshore parcel is located on the private outlet cove of Caribou Lake. Immaculate grounds with towering White Pines. * 150’

is two additional parcels with Lake Superior Shoreline with building sites above the gravel road. Parcels 2 and 3 are separate from this transactions and are available for $50,000 each. If desired to be purchased with the main property the overall property will consist of over 12 acres 855’ of total shoreline.

Lutsen, MN Superior National at Lutsen Golf Course Homesite. MLS 602078

$59,000

This development is fast becoming recognized as the “Beaver Creek” of the North

Lutsen, MN 261 CapsTrail, Tait Lake MLS# 6020959 $299,750 Tait Lake in Lutsen. Wonderfully appointed and extremely well maintained 2 bedroom, loft and 2 bath south facing home on a 2.9 acre parcel and 190’ of shoreline with dock. Abundance of natural light throughout the home. New addition in 2006 includes second bedroom, bathroom hallway and laundry. Office added in 2011 (could be converted to third bedroom). Excellent value. Call Katterine or Mike today for your private showing.

This is a very nice opportunity. Tax value is $84,200. Owner Agent.

One of a kind property on the sought after Baptism River. This 140 acres has over 4,000 feet of frontage on the Baptism just off Mattson Rd near Finland Mn. Privacy is what this is all about. For more information call 218-591-0985, email to stphn.carlson@gmail.com or Realliving.com/steve.carlson.

stphn.carlson@gmail.com Realliving.com/steve.carlson.

Lynne Luban

the Nicollet Mall

• Walk to the new Commons Park, a 9 acre park that extends from the US Bank Stadium accross from portland avenue

• Choose from many restaurants close by!

SCENIC SETTING - TIMBER

FRAME COT-

SALE PENDING

TAGES. Two charming timber-framed cottages perched on dramatic Lake Superior shoreline in Grand Marais. Spectacular views of Sawtooth Mountains - west, and Grand Marais lighthouse - east. Easy walking distance to downtown. The deep woods on 5+ acres boasts 475 feet of accessible coves, beaches and sloping ledgerock shore. The main cottage features a pass-through stone fireplace, maple and ceramic floors, custom cabinets and built-ins created from the

and ready to move in! MLS# 6020599 $1,199,000

Elegant and comfortable 3 bdrm, 2 bath contemporary home, architecturally designed and built to fit into the ledge rock hillside of Chimney Rock. Beautifully wooded, and private, with lichen-covered dramatic rocks and panoramic lake views on 223 feet of easily accessed Lake Superior shore. The great room is shared with the gourmet kitchen, formal dining, and living area centered around the Finnish fireplace. The master suite is a lovely open space with a private office, plus quiet reading corner. The master bath suite is exceptional. Upgrades throughout, beautiful maple flooring, fabulous storage on all three levels. MLS# 2308811 $750,000

kitchen with custom cabinets, full stone fireplace, hammer beam trusses, hardwood floors, custom ash-bentwood stair, and huge windows bringing in the light and moods of the big lake. Stone foundation and cedar shingle siding give the home and architecture a Prairie School look and feel. The master bedroom looks out at the lake, with walk-in closet, built-ins and a master bath with private cedar sauna. Fantastic three-season porch. Attached/heated 2-car garage and huge outbuilding. The 5.34-acre property is secluded and private with 224 feet of accessible shoreline, gardens, wildflowers and a flowing water feature. MLS# 6020825 $824,900 TIMBER FRAMED DREAM. Remarkable opportunity at a price that's lower than what it cost to build this Mulfinger designed Lake Superior home! 3 bdrm, 4 bath with an ideal layout suitable for a couple or sizable crew. Tasteful, well thought out & comfortable details. Top notch appliances incl. Jenn air cooktop, custom cherry cabinetry, black iron custom forged hardware, central air, Hardie Board siding, 40 yr. archit. shingles, custom front door w/ stained glass & so on. Views of the 2-story Montana stone wood-burning fireplace from the kitchen, liv. room & din. room. Over-sized heated 2-car garage has a 3 bed bunkroom/guest room above with a 1/4 bath. MLS# 6020882 $925,000

SPECTACULAR LAKE SUPERIOR LOT.

Framed by palisades, the nicely wooded property has two or more perfect sites on which to build your special lake home. Views are classic old North Shore looking over Chicago Bay. Shared septic system is in place. MLS# 2308784 $365,000

LAKE SUPERIOR COTTAGE. Exceptional Lake Superior property in highly regarded Lutsen area. 150 feet of accessible ledge rock and gravel beach shoreline with long magnificent views up and down the shore. The 2

CASCADE LAKE RETREAT. Just you the lake and the wilderness. This is the only private land on the lake. Enjoy the utmost privacy and unspoiled wilderness views with 87 acres and 3000 feet of shoreline on Cascade Lake. There is a neat, well-maintained cabin, sauna, dock and outhouse. Easy year-round access. Great fishing and wildlife sightings. This is one of the last of its kind in Cook County. MLS# 2309037 $669,000

SOLITUDE ON TAIT

LAKE. Spacious 3 bdrm, 2 bath home on 2.5 acres features a GREAT great room, gourmet kitchen with all stainless steel appliances. Charming master suite has sliding glass and lake view. Stunning open beamed ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, cozy loft and a huge screened porch. Comfortably sleeps 10-12. Detached garage. MLS# 2312977 $529,000 PRICE REDUCED!

NEW! LARGE SUMMER HOME - GUNFLINT LAKE. Room for the whole family and spectacular views across the lake to Canada. With 2 bdrms plus a large loft, 2 baths, guest cottage with 1/2 bath and the laundry facility, there's room for everyone with plenty of privacy. The living area features beamed cathedral ceilings, a beautiful stone fireplace and huge windows looking through the forest to lake. The 200 feet of lakeshore is easy to access and includes the dock. The lot is full of huge mature cedars and feels like the primeval forest. Easy access to the BWCA wilderness and other lakes for great fishing. Escape the city and find peace and tranquility on Gunflint Lake. MLS# 6021137 $389,900

PRIME PIKE LAKE CABINS. Private Lake Home or successful vacation rental w/ solid customer base already established. Cabins are set on over ½ an acre of quiet, peaceful grounds & include 200’ of gorgeous shoreline. Modern dock, artfully crafted slate fire pit, screen porch/boathouse. Many improvements and upgrades. MLS # 2313304 $379,000

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES

SEA GULL LAKE LOT - BWCAW VIEWS. This 10-acre lot has great views, 489 feet of accessible shoreline and even a nice sandy area for swimming. Rock outcroppings, blueberries and thousands of planted pines cover this classic wildernesssetting parcel. The driveway and power are in place with a fantastic build site for your dream lake cabin. There's even a nice shed to store your gear while camping on your lot. MLS# 6021603 $339,900

LOG CABIN GET-

CLASSIC CABIN ON CLEARWATER LAKE. Well maintained 2 bdrm, 1 bath cabin cared for by the same family for over 60 years. 205 feet of shoreline on much sought after Clearwater Lake with direct access to the BWCA. MLS# 2309283 $259,000

WILDERNESS SETTING - TUCKER LAKE. A perfect place for your cabin or home with unspoiled views and lots of Gunflint Trail privacy. 3.68 acres and 554’ shoreline. There are only a few parcels on this peninsula. Property boasts two lots – one on each side. Tucker Lake is a protected lake with added setbacks to protect the lake and views. Direct BWCAW access. MLS# 2309237 $229,900

BEAUTIFUL, LARGE LOT ON GULL LAKE. Over 342 feet of shoreline and 4 acres. A great location and many excellent building sites. There is a magnificent panoramic view of the lake with easy access to the water’s edge. The property is perfect for a trophy walleye fisherman! MLS# 2308946 $220,000

SECLUDED AND PEACEFUL - MCFARLAND LAKE. Quality built cabin tucked in a mature cedar forest with great views of the palisade. Features custom built cabinets and bookshelves, large deck, and it's set up as a simple lake retreat. There is 1 bedroom plus a loft, nice kitchen and dining area with a cozy living area with wood stove. There’s a large work/ storage shed, plus a beautiful cedar sauna and deck. Comes furnished and includes the dock, boat, canoe and kayak. It's just waiting for your wilderness adventures, only a short paddle to the BWCAW. McFarland Lake has two BWCAW entry points into Pine Lake or John Lake, and is surrounded by the wilderness at the end of the Arrowhead Trail. Great fishing, canoeing, and hiking on the Border Route Trail. MLS# 6020639 $219,000

CHARMING CABIN ON SEAGULL LAKE. Lovely 2 bdrm, 1 bath cabin with 233’ of

2900’ OF WILDERNESS LAKESHORE. The ONLY private parcel on Monker Lake just minutes from Grand Marais. Extremely well built log cabin, snowmobile garage and log shower house on 40 acres. Cabin has custom cabinets, oak flooring and loads of charm with a loft bedroom. Groomed trails lead you to the open lake shore and canoe launch. Another trail goes to a campsite at the waters edge. Winter access by snowmobile or cross country skis. MLS# 6021540 $199,500

and graywater septic system, generator power. Very private mid-Gunflint Trail lake property with easy access to the BWCA and other nearby fishing lakes. MLS# 6019478 $194,900

NORTH FOWL LAKE CABIN. Remote water only access from the US side of the border, or drive in from the Ontario side. Stunning views and easy access to the border lakes and the Royal River on the east end of the BWCA. Lovely 2 bdrm cabin with sauna. The private 200’ of lake-front lot has gentle shoreline and great views. MLS# 2309250 $189,000

POPLAR LAKE-BWCAW ACCESS. Nice 2.11 acre lot with beautiful west views of the lake and 244 feet of shore tucked in a quiet bay, perfect for swimming. A small, updated cabin sits right at

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# 6020625 $198,900 GREAT PIKE LAKE CABIN.

6020563 $184,900

LAKE PRIVACY ON 20 ACRES. Beautiful Lost Lake is a remote wilderness lake with only a few privately owned parcels on the water. The lots are all 20 acres in size with 600 ft of shoreline. This great lot has huge white pines. MLS# 6019597 $179,000

SOLITUDE ON LOON LAKE. These 1-2 acre lots are located on the south side of Loon Lake and offer great lake views, 152-218’ beautiful shoreline and many nice trees. The main road is in place and power is on the lot line. MLS# 2093855, 2159458, 2309227, 2309228 $175,000 and up ASTOUNDING VIEWS ON GREENWOOD. 2.10 acre lot on Greenwood Lake with 230’ lakeshore. Southwest location with incredible views down the lake. Surveyed and ready to build your dream home or cabin. Easy year round access and only 20 minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 2308929 $159,500

Year-round plowed and maintained county roads, power at each property and a clear water trout lake. These beautiful home sites were planned for generations of enjoyment and are protected by covenants. MLS# 60194906019496, 6019498 Lake lot prices start at $48,800 QUALITY

CARIBOU LAKE - HOME SITE. New price is well below tax assessed value, and seller is open to offers. Magnificent old-growth cedar and maple trees frame a corner lot with a great, high build site on Sawmill Bay. 5.34 acres and 185’ lake frontage. MLS# 2203572 $95,000 LOTS ON NINEMILE LAKE. Three beautiful, large lots on Ninemile Lake in Finland. Lots adjoin Superior National Forest and Cabin Creek Unit Roadless Area with excellent shoreline

RUN LOTS. Set along a

CONDOMINIUMS

THREE-LEVEL LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO. Beautiful views and quality finishes. 3-bdrm, 3-bath, accommodates 10. Outdoor access from each level with two decks and a patio right on the shore. Main floor has open floor plan with great room, kitchen and dining room - perfect for entertaining. Attached garage is a rarity on the shore. MLS# 2312996 $374,900

LOVELY LAKE SUPERIOR

QUIET AND PRIVATE

REMOTE HIDE-AWAY. Charming custom built 2 bdrm, 2 bath cabin tucked in the woods overlooking a beaver pond. A screened porch for summer dining. The living room is open and includes the kitchen and dining. A cozy Franklin stove warms the whole building.

The full basement is a complete guest space . Generator power and over 100 acres to explore. MLS# 2308912 $299,500

MLS# 2309175 $133,000

CONDO. Tastefully updated features throughout with main level location, this condo sits close to the pool area, the outdoor firepit and grill area in addition to the stairway that leads to the stunning shoreline. Private and quiet. Attractive rental revenues. MLS# 6021045 $82,500

LOG CABIN CHARM. This gorgeous lower level unit walks out to Lake Superior and has been updated with top-notch finishes. Open concept floor plan, bamboo flooring, stainless steel appliances, and stunning log cabin walls in the bedroom. Consistently one of the highest income-generating rental units as it has the only in-unit whirlpool at CL! Beautifully decorated--for the right price this unit could come fully-furnished, allowing new owners to begin earning rental revenues immediately. Chateau LeVeaux recently upgraded their common deck and the views are simply phenomenal! MLS# 6020672 $81,900

LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO/ 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. MLS# 2276189 $80,000

MAPLE HILL HOME IN ENCHANTED FOREST. This 3 bdrm, 2 bath split entry sits in a mature pine forest with tons of seclusion and northwoods appeal on 28 acres. Lrg stone fireplace, vaulted ceilings, open plan living-dining-kitchen with patio door to the deck. 1.5-car garage with finished space above plus 30 x 40 shop building. Great location near town, but tucked away in the majestic pines for peaceful privacy. MLS# 6020988 $389,900

CLASSIC FARM HOUSE AND 20 ACRES. Simply charming country home with outbuildings and some pasture for your horse! The 3 bdr, 2 bath home

MLS# 2309191 $309,000

HOVLAND OPPORTUNITY. Large home or commercial opportunity on Hwy 61 between Hovland and Grand Portage. This 7 bdrm, 3 bath home has resort/commercial zoning allowing for many options. Located on the scenic Reservation River at the gateway to the most picturesque corner of Minnesota's North Shore. Large deck, stone fireplace, Lake Superior views, +/- 500' of rushing river frontage. A great home for a large family, or your business dream. MLS# 2313085, 2313088 $289,900

RETREAT.

HOBBY FARM OR LOTS OF IDEAS. This large property features open meadows, gardens, orchards, and a beautiful river. The living quarters with 4 bdrms, 2 baths and open living space is located above a 6-stall horse barn. A large pole barn, huge gathering hall, garage and various storage sheds provide lots of sheltered space. Two wells and septic systems. Easy county road access. What's your idea? MLS# 6018972 $279,900

SALE PENDING

a great kitchen island. Fireplace and private office/ den. The laundry is upstairs! The basement has a separate entrance and a large storage room. One bdrm downstairs, but there is room for another. Downstairs kitchen is completely finished. MLS#: 6021541 $269,900

RECREATIONAL BASE CAMP. Great Tofte lot has 2 garage buildings. They could easily become living space, one has a second story. Property has room for a home with views of a dramatic creek gorge with waterfall and Lake Superior view. 4.54 acres, year-round road, power, phone. MLS# 6019481 $169,900 PRICE REDUCED!

$169,000

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

OUTPOST MOTEL. This motel has had a steady income stream for over 25 years. Only 9 miles from town with trails that connect the Outpost to the Kadunce River Park and the Lake Superior Hiking Trail. The motel has 9 smaller queen units and 5 kitchen units with 2 queen beds (some with extra living room space). 3 bdrm owner’s home overlooks Lake Superior. 17 acres – room to grow! MLS# 6020562 $620,000

SALE PENDING

UNIQUE COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY! Housing options include condos, apartments, twin homes – quadplexes, or trailer parks. City approvals may be necessary. A preliminary plat exists for 22 twin homes, but alter as you wish. Other commercial ventures possible. These 8 acres are in a great location in Grand Marais with lake views and public utilities. This could be the commercial project you’ve been looking for! Help solve the local housing shortage. MLS# 6020750 $299,000

BIG OPPORTUNITY, MANY POSSIBILITIES.

Prime commercial location in Hovland, 1000 feet of Highway 61 frontage.

Large commercial space with a small 2 bedroom home and 1 functioning rental cottage. Many new improvements and upgrades. Two more small cabins could be rented, and there's room for many more...or other possibilities. Large 2-car garage plus two sheds. MLS# 2308736 $297,500

GRAND MARAIS PROFESSIONAL BUILDING

The options here are endless and the opportunity is great. Ample parking and a nice sized storage building. Own/occupy the entire building, rent out one side & offset your ownership costs, create “condo offices” & offer space to a variety of entities… many avenues one could take! The building is in wonderful condition and is ready for business. MLS# 6020220 $269,900

RENTAL COTTAGESGOOD HISTORY - GREAT LAKE. Devil Track Cabins have been a long standing seasonal resort on the beautiful north shore of Devil Track Lake. 5 cabins plus an owner's cabin needing renovation - a manageable operation for a retired couple, or as a family retreat. Great potential as vacation rental business. Classic charm, nice lake views. private setting. MLS# 6019988 $389,000 GRAND MARAIS CABINS. Good income property with long-term tenants. All 5 cabins have had ongoing upgrades - roofs, baths, plumbing, heating. Cabin 1 has fireplace. Charming touches. MLS# 2312978 $210,000

COMMERCIAL LOTS IN LUTSEN. Two commercial-zoned lots fronting Hwy 61 in Lutsen across from Lockport Store. Great visibility, nice forest, lake view. Third lot is zoned residential. Bring your business idea! MLS# 6020464 $179,000

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.

STUNNING LITTLE DEVIL TRACK RIVER FRONTAGE. Nice 6 acre property with 350 ft river frontage. Pincushion Trail access provides a unique opportunity for skiers, hikers and mt bikers. Trail easement runs thru property with covenants to protect the trails. Zoned Resort/Commercial. MLS# 6019560 $103,900 DRAMATIC CASCADE RIVER PROPERTY. River splits the 20 acre property – never look at a neighbor across the river. The dozen large private parcels in this “island” of private land are surrounded by federal and state forest lands. Remote, yet only 15 minutes to Grand Marais. MLS# 6020527 $74,900

RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE

WOODS, WATER & SECLUSION.Three 40 acre lots with 600 to 1000 ft frontage on Mons Creek. Also includes deeded access to Lost Lake. Private and secluded. MLS# 6021356 $59,900 or MLS# 6021357 $74,900 or MLS# 6021358 $74,900.

GRAND MARAIS - CITY LOT ON CREEK. Wooded lot with City services: water, sewer and electric at site. Nice south exposure and frontage on scenic Cedar Creek. Quiet street. MLS# 2125228 $59,900

LAND ON THE FLUTE REED RIVER. Enjoy privacy and seclusion in a deep 13 acre parcel with over 300 feet of trout stream in Hovland. Easy access with power, phone and broadband. Nice build sites. MLS# 2313215 $49,900

500’ ON MOHNS CREEK. Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with many great build sites on 25 acres. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Abuts state land. MLS# 6021088

$39,900

LOCATION, VIEWS, PRIVACY, 80 ACRES. Sweeping views of Lake Superior and Pincushion Mt from expansive open meadows. This former homesteaders property has it all: rolling topography, ravines, grassy meadows, mature timber, flowing creek and expansive views. Great property for horses or crop production. Minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 6021017 $289,000

GREAT HOME SITE OR RESORT-TYPE BUSINESS LOCATION. Over 13 acres adjoining Pincushion Mnt. Hike, ski and bike trails. Trail easement through property. Lake Superior view - unique opportunity! More land available. Zoned Resort/Commercial. MLS# 6019559 $214,900

LARGE WILDERNESS ACREAGE - LAKE ACCESS. This 80+ acre parcel includes 400 feet of shoreline on McFarland Lake. Building sites are located across the road on the hillside with potential lake views. Rugged property with high topography and old growth cedar and pine. Easy access to the BWCAW and Border Route Hiking Trail. MLS# 6019433 $203,000

OUTSTANDING VIEWS OF LAKE SUPERIOR. Almost 15 acres within the boundaries of Cascade State Park. Rolling hills, a variety of tree species, and just 10-15 minutes from both Grand Marais and Lutsen. Potential for subdivision. MLS# 2309282 $175,000 MOUNTAIN TOP - WILDERNESS VIEWS. Fantastic vistas into the BWCA and surrounding rugged topography near McFarland Lake. Located at the end of the Arrowhead Trail with easy year-round access. The 122 acres has a high ridge and a “mountain top” for you to name. MLS# 2313109 $167,000

BIG LAND, BIG CREEK, BIG TREES. This nearly 100 acre Hovland area parcel is on the "front range" of the Farquhar Hills with a dramatic backdrop of rock cliffs and escarpments. There is a large creek running through the entire property with many fantastic building sites. MLS# 2308857 $159,900 INCREASINGLY RARE, LARGE RECREATIONAL PARCEL. 190 arces fully surveyed. The perfect retreat. Has a rich variety of trees, ponds, high and low lands, some meadow land and wetlands. MLS# 2309103 $150,000 BEAUTIFUL ACREAGE WITH LAKE VIEWS. Four 80 acre parcels located just south of Schroeder and a stone’s throw from Lake Superior! Each parcel features shared access off State Highway 61. The land features a gradual elevation, tiered building sites, beautiful lake views, and the Caribou River is within walking distance. MLS #6020335, #6021914, #6021916, and #6021918 $149,900 each. LARGE PARCEL. Large private parcel with possible subdivision potential. Great Lake Superior views on the higher elevations. A small creek runs through part of the 25 acre property. MLS# 2308822 $124,900

INTRIGUING PROSPECT. High-quality items already in place include an insulated/heated slab for house/porch, insulated garage slab, electricity, driveway, the well, a time-dosed/heated septic system. Over 18 acres of privacy. MLS# 6021384 $114,900 PRICE REDUCED! READY TO BUILD – 20 ACRES IN SCHRODER. Driveway and building pad already in place. A red pine forest climbs up to the highest point with stunning views of high ridges and valleys. MLS# 2308723 $99,900

HUGE POND-HUGE PRIVACY. Large 45+ acre wooded parcel located across from Tom Lake. Huge pond/lake in the very center of the acreage. MLS# 2308921 $99,000

MAPLES, VIEWS, PRIVACY. 85+ acres near Hovland. Good end of road access, adjoining tons of federal land, great view of pond. MLS# 2313198 $98,900 BUILDING SITE, CREEK, MAPLE RIDGE.This 47 acre parcel has a lot to offer. There's a nice south facing building site just off a county road, a trout stream with beaver pond, and a maple ridge adjoining federal land. Make this your home or cabin site and enjoy all the natural diversity on this parcel. Great location close to Grand Marais. MLS# 6022087 $69,900

RUSTICATE, RECREATE, RELAX. Reclusive Hovland hideaway – 43 acres with new driveway to “base camp” with a nice camper trailer and shed. Trails have been cut throughout the property which adjoins State land. MLS# 2313223 $67,900 PRICE REDUCED!

GREAT LOCATION, QUALITY FOREST, BUILD HERE. These 10-acre parcels have a mature and mixed forest, southerly exposure, easy county road frontage and just minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 2309143 $62,900, MLS# 2309123 $64,900, MLS# 2309147 $64,900 PINES & LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW. Large 13+ acre pine filled lot on the hillside above Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Schroeder. Great lake views! Power, phone and broadband at the lot. MLS# 2313242 $64,900 MAPLE HILL - HOME SITE. Heavily wooded 6.45 acre parcel with great privacy, county rd frontage, power and phone. MLS# 2192740 $64,500

30 ACRES - PANORAMIC VIEWS. Rare mountain top property with a 180 degree view of distant Lake Superior and the ridge to the north. Many trails in place with food plots for wildlife, plus an elevated viewing blind. MLS# 6020274 $63,900

RIDGES, PINES AND VIEWS - ARROWHEAD TRAIL. Nice

28 acre parcel with high building sites and huge pines. The surrounding federal land leads directly into the BWCAW. Excellent year-round road access and McFarland Lake is just a half-mile away. MLS# 2313108 $63,000

GREAT LOCATION NEAR DEVIL TRACK. Lovely wooded 5 acre parcel. Survey, septic site evaluations, and access road in place. MLS# 2308847 $59,900

BUILDING LOT - GRAND MARAIS. A rare find! This lot is located on 8th Ave W in the heart of town with easy walking distance to the harbor and business district. All city services are at the street. There's even good potential for a lake view. Build your home here and enjoy living in the heart of "America's Favorite Small Town.” MLS# 6019287 $54,900

QUIET AND PRIVATE.Choice 2.31 acre lot at the end of the road in Lutsen, ready to build. Priced to sell! MLS# 2309202 $54,900

NEW! PERFECT 5 ACRE HOME SITE. This private and secluded build site is just waiting for your custom plans! Only five miles from town with five acres of great woods bordering public land on two sides. MLS# 6021986 $51,500

READY TO BUILD - NEAR DEVIL TRACK. Nice wooded 5 acre parcel. Survey, septic, & access road in place. MLS# 2308925 $49,900 WOODED 2.4 ACRE. Tait Lake back-lot with driveway in and cleared building site ready for your cabin. Electric is on site. Owner/Agent. MLS# 2297619 $49,000

NEW! OWN A PIECE OF THE NORTHWOODS. 39+ acres of gently sloping, wooded land with easy road access on Camp 20 Road in Hovland. Less than one half mile east of Judge CR Magney State Park, and steps away from the Superior Hiking Trail, this parcel is located within the Grand Portage State Forest. MLS# 6022163 $48,900

BUILDING SITE OVERLOOKING MCFARLAND LAKE. This pine studded 7 acre property has easy walking access to the county beach on McFarland Lake. Nice elevated build site with easy county road access. Just minutes from the BWCA by canoe or hiking shoe. MLS# 6019449 $47,000 POWERS LAKE ROAD ACREAGE. This is the beautiful '40' that you have been waiting for. Easy access off Powers Lake Road. Electricity and broadband scheduled for 2016 - a real bonus! This is a fine opportunity for the person seeking a remote retreat with some modern amenities. MLS# 6022202 $42,000

5 ACRES NEAR CARIBOU LAKE. Gorgeous corner lot with colorful maples and majestic cedars. Plenty of privacy. Close to hiking trails and the Caribou Lake boat landing. Year round access with power! MLS# 2279179 $40,000

NICE HOVLAND ACREAGE. Easy year-round access, almost 40 acres. Build your cabin retreat overlooking the wildlife pond! MLS# 2313144 $38,000

WOODED ACREAGE – GRAND MARAIS.Two private, 20 acre lots with hiking and ski trails, and abundant wildlife. A high building site offers seasonal views of Lake Superior. MLS# 2313172 $46,000 & MLS# 2313173 $35,000

FIVE SECLUDED ACRES. One of eight secluded wooded 5-acre parcels bordering Govt. land. MLS# 2308827 $28,000

WILDWOOD ACRES - TOFTE. Great building potential. MLS# 2313009, 2313010, 2313011 & 2313012 $17,500 - $20,000

SIMPLE LIVING ON THE BIG LAKE! Great vibes resonate from this home, comfortable in its design, it’s about the nice views from the entire main level, including main level bedroom! Nearby Taconite Harbor, watch the big boats pull in to the harbor!! MLS#2300030 $349,000

DREAMY LAKE SUPERIOR CABIN, ACCESSIBLE SHORELINE! Accessible ledgerock shoreline in the heart of Tofte! Walk to BlueFin for dinner, Enjoy seclusion amongst the Mature Spruce, Year Round living at it’s best. Perfect home to update and make it your own! MLS#2270954 $429,000 NEW! SANDY BEACH SHORELINE ON LAKE SUPERIOR, AND A HECK OF A NICE HOME! Super value, completely renovated, the interior of this home should be in Architectural Digest! You will love it

OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME! Enjoy expansive views and a lot of elbow room with over 300 ft of Lake Superior Shoreline! Well constructed home is ready to be updated! Gorgeous Stone fireplace, two car detached, Lovely Lutsen setting! MLS#2038020 REDUCED! $625,000 LOTS OF LAND AND LAKESHORE ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Well maintained Family Compound with yr round newer home on 8+ ac and 340+ ft accessible shoreline! But’s it really about “The Shining Rocks” The “Rock 1” log cabin was built early 30’s, and it’s been lovingly maintained by only a handful of families since. Cabins Rock 1, 2 & 3 create this incredible family compound! MLS#2187245 REDUCED! $659,000

LUTSEN’S LAKE SUPERIOR HAVEN! Mint Condition and Move In Ready, you’ll love the location, minutes to Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort and a short drive to the Harbor at Grand Marais! Quality, energy efficient home designed for one level living and low maintenance…more time for you to soak in the views from the Prow Windows in the Great Room! MLS#2308717 $579,900

THE SECLUDED SIDE OF GRAND MARAIS ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Just east of the East Bay, you’ll love running your toes through the sandy shoreline on Lake Superior! Lovely Year Round 2+ bedrm home within walking distance to Grand Marais features main level living and room for expansion in the nice but unfinished basement. 2 car garage.

MLS#2313342 $369,900

SALE PENDING

The Forest has Awakened! The Ice is Out and the Animals are on the Move!

LAKE SUPERIOR LAND!

CHALLENGING BUILD SITE ON LAKE SUPERIOR means BIG SAVINGS! Enjoy Rugged terrain, this is your Lake Superior dream in excellent location between Tofte and Lutsen on the Bike Trail! Must WALK with the list agent to truly understand the accessibility! MLS#2313306 $238,000

END OF THE ROAD SPECTACULAR 280 ft of cliff shoreline with unobstructed Views across Lake Superior! Little Marais area, Build ready, driveway already in place! MLS#2313255 $265,000

PLENTY OF ELBOW ROOM ON LAKE SUPERIOR!

Nearly 800 ft of shoreline and 11 ac. of rolling terrain, with signs of the past logging roads and Spruce planted forests providing a sweet buffer from all of those pesky worries of the Real World! Driveway installed in to the mid-section of the land to allow you to explore which building site best fits your desires!

MLS#2309271 $799,000

DEERYARD LAKE WEST GRAND

MARAIS 2000 sq ft Log Home on 100 ft

Deeryard Lake, 2.5 ac, south facing, built in 2004.

Large insulated, heated garage. 4 person sauna, 2 bedrm, 2 bath, 4-season porch. Power/broadband, water/septic. Maple and White Pine. Quiet, Northwood’s setting, not far from Grand Marais. MLS#2308905 $279,000

PIKE LAKE SUNSHINE ON WILLARD LANE! Charming property is on the west end of Pike: the quiet side. Step inside the spacious A-frame: paneled floors and walls are warm and inviting, earnest wood stove. A bank of lakeside windows tells of every mood of light. Birch branch cabinet fronts, 240’ of lakeshore. MLS#2313066 $239,700

NEW! SECLUSION ON GREENWOOD LAKE’S EAST BAY! Charming newer construction log sided cabin with great Lake Views tucked in to the shoreline of a quiet bay… imagine fishing your days away on Greenwood! MLS#6019922 $249,000 NEW! SWEET CABIN ON TONS OF PIKE LAKE SHORELINE! End of the road, year round living in this Grand Cabin bordering the Superior National Forest! MLS#6022181 $349,000

LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR CASCADE BEACH RD LAND! Very accessible, build site close to the water, listen to the waves of Lake Superior lapping the rocky shoreline! Gorgeous morning sunrises over the Big Lake, a must see! MLS#2308906 $299,000

400 FT OF STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR SHORELINE minute’s to the Cross River in Schroeder! Rolling terrain, nice Evergreen stand giving nice buffer from ANY highway noise. Worth the walk through the wilderness to see the AMAZING 400 ft of sprawling ledge rock shoreline!! MLS#2313305 $529,000

ISLAND VIEW, HARBOR VIEW, SPECTACULAR VIEW!Accessible and Incredible shoreline, One of a KIND Lake Superior Parcel, Must Meander to See how much you will LOVE this Shoreline! MLS#2308826 $429,000 REDUCED!

to enjoy! Main Level Owner’s Suite will make you want to keep it all to yourselves! A Must See! MLS#2313246 $485,000 REDUCED!

CRAZY CUTE LOG CABIN ON CHRISTINE LAKE! Located just off a designated Mountain Bike Trail system, enjoy year round access, electric at street and a TOTAL SENSE OF SECLUSION! Canoe on Christine, Fly Fish in the Poplar or just go for a hike in the Superior National Forest! MLS#2308836 $150,000 REDUCED!

NEW! AT THE WATERS EDGE! Rustic cabin on Gust Lake, a Real Charmer! MLS#TBD $110,000

ON DEERYARD LAKE, with garage/workshop/cabin with 100 ft of Nice Shoreline and nearly 3 acres of south sloping land. Electric, well, septic tank, AND dock! Can’t beat this value for Lutsen Lakeshore Living! MLS#2051927 $139,000

NEW! LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR VACATION TOWNHOME AT LUTSEN RESORT! Enjoy all that the historic Lutsen Lodge offers…a sandy beach, a cool River, Swimming pool, spa, FABULOUS dining…but enjoy it in STYLE at the Cliffhouse overlooking the historic lodge. Newer construction, Big views, Contemporary Design. Total Comfort. Nice rental income to offset expenses. MLS#6021422 $429,000

GUST LAKE CABIN IN LUTSEN! Tons of value on a spectacular piece of shoreline! Super fishing cabin on a peninsula point overlooking peaceful Gust Lake and the Boundary Waters a hop skip and jump away. MLS#6020330 $239,000

POPLAR LAKE CABIN ON 440’ OF SHORELINE AT THE TIP OF A PENINSULA! Ensconced in quiet Boreal environment, Cabin sits proudly above the lake for long views over Poplar’s numerous islands! Home needs a little TLC, priced to sell! MLS#2308952 $269,000

MLS#2189021 #605 MOOSE MTN! $292,000 MLS#2217205 #526 MOOSE MTN $128,500 REDUCED! MLS#2120739 #128 BRIDGE RUN $121,900

paved driveway all on 8 acres! MLS#2313057 $330,000

SILVER BAY TO LITTLE MARAIS TO FINLAND & ISABELLA!

Hwy 1 area Hunting Cabin on 10 ac MLS#2309318 $64,900

30 acres Wilderness, Borders lands next to Little Manitou River! MLS#2309327

$129,000

Rocky Wall Overlooking Lake Superior just outside Silver Bay. MLS#2244646 $99,000

80 acres for $79,000 Blesner Lake Rd! MLS#2234328

Rock Road in Silver Bay area! Great build site with creek frontage! MLS#2308638 $45,000

Sonju Lake Road in Finland! 39 ac Rolling terrain with some maples MLS#2313331 $45,000

Little Marais Road Acreage! Build Ready Site, RV Neg. Old Garage, MLS#2313191 $99,000 SOLD!

160 acre parcel of upland maples and boreal forest. Total seclusion. Owned by the same family since 1904! MLS#2194145 $129,000 Lakeshore on Ninemile Lake at the Village, common water and septic, build ready, borders common land! MLS#2309096 $45,000

Commercial Lot for Bar/Restaurant at the Village at Ninemile Lake, in between Finland and the Trestle Inn! MLS#2309264

$47,500

SCHROEDER AREA NEAR THE CROSS RIVER!

Caribou River Frontage, Simply Gorgeous 38 ac! MLS#2313027 $65,000

Maple forest with meandering creek , nice sized pond. Electric/broadband Yr Round access. 15 min from Hwy 61 in Schroeder. 20 ac $49,900 MLS#2308954; 40+ ac $109,900 MLS#2308953

10 Ac Parcels of Maples! Rolling Terrain of Mature Maples to a Sweet Building site Perched Over a Mixed Boreal Forest. Year Round Access and Electric at Road! MLS#2024250 $56,900

DRAMATIC Mountain Top Views, Rolling Hills, Maple Forests fading in to Spruce and Pine and year round access. Tons of acreage available, or just pick up a 40 for $70,000! MUST SEE, call Emily today! MLS#6001560, multiple#’s call for full map and prices! FROM $70,000 MLS#2090628

Sugarloaf Retreats on High Ridge Drive, located up the Surgaloaf Road from Sugarloaf Cove Naturalist Area, Enjoy large acreage parcels at rock bottom prices! Each $39,000 MLS#1598640 REDUCED!

TOFTE AREA NEAR BLUEFIN BAY RESORT!

LeVeaux Mountain, Super Views and Wildlife Ponds! FROM $49,900 MLS#2216091, MLS#2220050 $69,000 & MLS#2309131 $59,000

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#2070510 Prices from $24,900!!

Tofte vaag on the Sawbill, Nice Lake Views! Walk to the Coho, great location! FROM $49,900 MLS#1615956

Wowser Lake Superior views on Overlook Tr! MLS#2296509 $79,900

Mature Spruce and BIG Lake Views! Walk to Blue Fin Bay, drilled well in place! MLS#2272174 $49,900

Gorgeous 19 acres with creek running through the middle, high ground! MLS#2309247 $65,000

Onion River Rd land, Hiker’s Heaven! MLS#2309316 $45,000 SALE PENDING!

High Ground End of Cul de Sac borders Superior National Forest! MLS#6021436 $49,900

Woodland Foothills Build Ready lots, Shared Water & Community Septic from $19,000 MLS#2309328+

Heartland of Lutsen, 80 ac at the Foothills of Ski Hill ridge, near downtown Lutsen! MLS#2312987 $119,000

Over 15 ac of Wilderness on Turnagain Trail in Lutsen! MLS#2216560 $69,500

Prime Build Site(s) just off theCaribou at Jonvick Creek! MLS#2240533 $49,000

Gorgeous 5 acre parcels in the Heart of Lutsen paved Caribou Trail locale bordering USFS lands! MLS#2174799 From $54,900-$77,500

Creek Build Site just off the Caribou Trail at Jonvick Creek! Rare and Unique Build site! MLS#2289515 $57,500

What an opportunity!

30 plus acres on Lutsen’s Ski Hill Rd, Lutsen Mountains. Great views of Lake Superior and toward Moose Mountain. MLS# 2217142 $250,000 SOLD!

30 acres of Prime Wilderness Land with year round access and electric at street with Views of Lutsen’s famed Clara Lake! MLS#2080599 $137,500

80 Ac with Poplar River Frontage on the Honeymoon Tr! MLS#2307399 $95,000

Hunters and Fisherman take note! Desirable 20 acre parcel located on the outskirts of Lutsen, minutes to Bigsby, Ward, Deeryard and Caribou Lakes! Nice mixed forest with high ground. Murmur Cr. frontage. Great price for your Northwoods getaway!

MLS#1914043 $24,900

Gorgeous Views of Williams & Wills Lake in Lutsen!

Year Round Access, electric, Mountain Top site bordering USFS land. A Wonderful place to build your home!

MLS#2107927 $70,000

A Hop, Skip & Jump West of Grand Marais this lot is the perfect location to build. With an apron and culvert installed off County Rd 7, and the survey done you are ready to build!

MLS#2313311 $68,900

7.26 ac south facing land west of Grand Marais

White Pine, Maple forest in the Deeryard Lake area- East Deeryard Rd. Power/broadband. All high ground. MLS#2308855 $49,000

Birch Drive, West of Grand Marais! or HUGE Lake Superior views. MLS#2303398 FOR $71,000 SOLD!

A River Runs Through It!

160 Acres of Upland and River Frontage on the Cascade River near Eagle Mountain. Whether Hunting land or Wilderness Retreat, this is a Great Opportunity!

MLS#1940786 $99,500 REDUCED! TONS OF VALUE!!!

LAKESHORE

Corner Build Site in Town Walk to Harbor!

MLS#2309203 $39,000

60 Ac with Lake Views E of Grand Marais! Keep this gem all to yourself and enjoy plenty of elbow room!

MLS#2208961 $119,000

Peaceful 40 ac with Flute Reed River Frontage.

borders Judge Magney State Park, great hunting parcel!

MLS#2309163 $44,900 SOLD!

Cty 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.

MLS#1599157 $89,900

Lake Superior Lots

VIRGINIA DETRICK PALMER

Inland Lake Homes

Bluefin Bay - Tofte

Condos

Tom Lake Year round, 1.10A, 171’ shore, nicely wooded, driveway and cleared building site.

MLS 6020381 $54,900

Heavily wooded with year-round access. 112’ shore on county maintained road.

MLS 2313184 $114,900

Private 34+A, 600’ of shore, surveyed and septic sites are id’d. Will consider owner financing to a qualified buyer.

MLS 6020848 $149,900

Iron Lake 150’ of shore on 1.2A with year round access. BWCAW access lake, southern views overlooking federal land. MLS 6021654 $117,900 PENDING

Lake Superior View

Birch Lake Heavily wooded 1.54A, 150’ of frontage on great trout lake. Direct, year round access off the Gunflint Trail. MLS 2183859 $99,900

Squint Lake Nicely wooded 2.13A with some lovely old White Pine trees! Excellent Mid-Gunflint Trail location, 221’shore,

Poplar

Solberg

frontage on excellent trout lake!

MLS 6021433 $139,900

Devil Track Lake Beautiful lake lot on 2A and over 150’ of shore. Nicely wooded, close to town. Tons of recreational activities nearby.

MLS 2306066 $199,900

Heavily wooded with 112’ shore. Property is on a county maintained road for use all year long.

MLS 2313184 $114,900

Chester Lake

The only private parcel on Chester Lake. One of a kind opportunity! 40A, 300’ frontage! Rough cabin sold “as is”. MLS 6022402 $149,900

Wilson

Leo

Rosebush Hill Lane Nicely wooded 5.40A with shared driveway only minutes from town. Identified septic sites and fully surveyed! Approx. 430’ of creek frontage. OWNER will consider a Contract for Deed! MLS 2232494 $49,900 County Rd 7

Wooded 5A, with seasonal Lake Superior Views! Nice mix of trees and quality build sites. MLS 2309120 $74,900

Beautifully

Pick your own floorings, colors, materials! Borman Construction will build 2BR,1BA home on 5A. MLS 2309117 $315,000

Camp 20 Rd

200+ A of land, abutting State and Federal land. Mature trees, gently rolling topography. MLS 6020847 $159,900

40A off of the Irish Creek Road. Land is surrounded by State Land for added privacy. MLS 6020846 $42,900

CATCHLIGHT CATCHLIGHT

Hummingbirds

Very few people ever get to see a hummingbird nest because they are so well camouflaged. A friend of mine found this hummingbird nest in the Lutsen area last summer. The female builds the nest out of various plant fibers and camouflages it with lichen to look like its surroundings. Woven together with spider silk, this amazing home expands as the babies grow.—Paul Sundberg