Northern Wilds September 2025

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North Shore Creatives

While the North Shore is known for its excellent outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, canoeing, and fishing, it’s equally recognized for its vibrant arts community. From Duluth to Thunder Bay and beyond, passionate artists are bursting with creativity, adding even more color to our world. And while we strive to celebrate the arts in every issue of Northern Wilds, we decided it deserved its own theme this month.

Let’s start in Along the Shore, where Dana Johnson introduces us to the North Shore Artists League, which serves as a supportive and educational community for artists of all skill levels in the area. Next up, Naomi Yaeger brings us to Ely with the Northern Lakes Arts Association, an all-ages creative hub for visual, literary, and performing arts. Chris Pascone writes about “Duluth’s bestkept secret,” the Duluth MakerSpace, a nonprofit organization filled with workshop spaces, classes of all kinds, and camaraderie.

Per Dana Johnson’s feature story: “If a picture is worth a thousand words, a mural is a novel—and you can find a small library of them all over the Northern Wilds.” Cue our Walls that Speak story: a photo-heavy feature of various Northland murals. Unfortunately, space was limited, so we couldn’t show them all. Perhaps you should take a drive and discover some more yourself.

Moving away from the arts, Northern Trails columnist Gord Ellis writes about the brook trout of a lifetime—a 26-incher caught by one of his clients. Be sure to check out the photos. And Joe Shead introduces us to the pink salmon—an improbable tale in Lake Superior.

With autumn in the air—or soon to be—Patience Sifferath writes about new ways to view the fall colors from above: via airplane with Sawtooth Aviation, a Lutsen Mountains gondola ride, or a Lake Superior Helicopters flight. Rather keep your feet on the ground? Kalli Hawkins has some other options for you: Visit the Grand Marais/Cook County airport on Sept. 27 for the annual fly-in/drive-in pancake breakfast. Or head to Silver Bay for the annual ATV Minnesota Ride and Rally event, held Sept. 26-28.

Last month, we had so many contributors to our Camping Traditions feature that we decided to run a Part Two this month. From outdoor camp showers to cooking steak on a campfire while sipping wine, our writers have some fun traditions worth trying. While the calendar marks the official start of fall as Monday, Sept. 22, many kids would argue that summer ended when the new school year began. Either way, autumn is upon us—and while I’ll miss the longer days of summer, there’s so much to look forward to this time of year. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts.—Breana Johnson

ENTER YOUR PHOTOS AND WIN PRIZES!

CATEGORIES: Landscape, Wildlife, Adventure Lifestyle, and Macro. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos per category. Winners will be announced in the January 2026 issue of Northern Wilds.

ENTER BY SEPT. 30

WEBSITE: BIT.LY/LOVEOFNORTH

Meet our Judges!

Photo Tip of the Month:

When photographing wildlife or flowers, the background can either make a good image or distract from it. Most of the time I use a small aperture so that the background is out of focus but try to move around so that you can line your subject up with something that is colorful. Out of focus bright colors behind your subject can make for a pleasant photo. —Paul Sundberg

books, magazines and newspapers have earned him an arm load of national and international awards. He currently resides in Wawa, Ontario with his wife Francine.

the area’s vast forests, lakes, rivers, and streams. “I travel the back country all the time taking photos of anything that catches my eye; the northern lights are my favorite, followed by wildlife,” he says.

1976

several

until his retirement in

They

reside near Grand Marais where Paul continues to pursue his passion for photographing Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters.

James Smedley’s wiry frame regularly labours under a heavy pack of camera gear in search of fish, photos and outdoor adventure. His contributions to U.S. and Canadian

Paul Sundberg has done landscape and wildlife photography since the early 1970s. Paul and his wife Karla moved to the North Shore of Lake Superior in

managing

State Parks

2010.

currently

David R. Johnson is a photographer from Grand Marais. A fourthgeneration resident of the area, he grew up exploring

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Elle Andra-Warner, Gord Ellis, Virginia George, Anne Graybeal, Kalli Hawkins, Dana Johnson, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Chris Pascone, Joe Shead, Patience Sifferath, Tom Watson, Naomi Yaeger, Sam Zimmerman

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The Art of Belonging: North Shore Artists League

NORTH SHORE—Artists are often depicted as solitary creatures. In media we see them toiling over their work for hours alone in their plant-filled studios, or maybe hidden away in the corner of a coffee shop. While this portrayal isn’t totally inaccurate, many artists greatly benefit by becoming involved with their communities through local artistic groups.

The North Shore Artists League (NSAL) serves as a supportive and educational hub for artists of all skill levels in the area. Scheduled social gatherings, gallery shows, and demonstrations are just a few perks of membership.

“As our vision states, we’re truly ‘by artists for artists,’ cultivating a dynamic, supportive community where artists thrive through collaboration and inspiration,” says James Ellis, the president and chair of the Board of Directors for the NSAL. “We aim to connect artists with their local communities, fostering creativity and engagement.”

The NSAL began as an inspired idea during a strategic planning session between the Johnson Heritage Post and the Cook County Historical Society in early 2019. It’s now a growing, thriving 501(c)(7) non-profit organization, encouraging artists to connect, create, and contribute to the culture of the North Shore.

Ellis joined the League in 2022. “I was searching for the same thing many artists seek: genuine connection and networking with other creatives,” he says. “I knew my personal art journey wasn’t meant to be one of isolation. Instead, I saw it as a path to understanding what it means to be an artist in a broader sense, and how to meaningfully contribute to an art community.”

After a disability changed his relationship with the area, Ellis began painting as a “vital form of therapy,” as many favorite wild places became inaccessible. “My art allows me to continue exploring and interpreting this region’s wild and ever-changing beauty,” he shares.

The NSAL provides opportunities for area artists of all mediums, from potters and poets to jewelers and musicians. Connection is encouraged and friendships are forged through regularly scheduled satellite group meetings called “art pods.”

“An art pod is a gathering of artists in a specific geographical area who meet socially in various venues, offering art-related programming to provide education, support, collaboration, and fun,” Ellis explains.

Since the North Shore encompasses a large area known for inclement weather, it made sense to host multiple regional meets. While officially scheduled monthly from

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October through May, regional pods may choose to meet throughout the year.

Programming at art pods may include visits to galleries or museums, guest speakers, demonstrations with hands-on opportunities, plein air painting, and more. “There’s no specified structure or expectation of content; the main goal is for artists to connect

Social gatherings, demonstrations, and gallery shows are just a few perks of being a North Shore Artists League member. | SUBMITTED

and support each other,” Ellis says. A league member can attend multiple regional pods if they like, and pods are encouraged to invite

Various art mediums on exhibit at the North Shore Artists League 6th Annual Member Show, which took place in July and August at the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery in Grand Marais. | SUBMITTED

Artist James Ellis is the president and chair of the Board of Directors for the North Shore Artists League.

non-members to attend the monthly gatherings to help grow the league’s reach.

The entire league gathers together in October for the North Shore Artists League Annual Conference. This year it’s being hosted by Bluefin Waves of Superior in Tofte on October 25. “Attendees can look forward to a series of insightful educational workshops, with Kelly Schamberger as the distinguished keynote speaker,” Ellis mentions. In December, members enjoy a Holiday Tea or Happy Hour. Pods may substitute or hold meets in addition to these special events.

While art pods provide incredible value themselves, membership in the NSAL includes a number of other benefits, all designed to enhance a person’s artistic journey. Creations by members are featured on social media, on the main website, and on their own member pages within the site where they can link to sales. A monthly newsletter helps members stay informed of upcoming pod meets and events, and exhibition opportunities allow members to share their work to wider regional audiences as well as locally in their communities at shows and festivals.

Members come together to “celebrate the diversity of artistic expression, fostering collaboration across disciplines to inspire new ideas and create opportunities for growth,” Ellis says. One way this is accomplished is through the 100 Day Project, a personal art experience that challenges the individual to create something every day for 100 days with encouragement and support from other artists.

Membership is open to all artists who live along the North Shore or adjacent areas, and to those who are inspired by the region. The primary requirement is to have a “genuine interest in connecting with other artists and engaging with our community,” Ellis explains. “While our in-person activities are concentrated along the North Shore, we are exploring ways to better serve members who may live further afield.”

Ellis says being part of the NSAL has been an “incredibly enriching experience” for him. “Personally, I’ve learned that each artist has a unique story to tell, not only through their art but also in expressing

Members of the Duluth, Two Harbors, and Silver Bay art pod meeting in the studio of member Shelley Getten for a hands-on block printing demonstration. | SUBMITTED

who they are and how they got there,” he says. “Motivation is constantly provided by my peers, and despite our different artistic journeys, we all encounter many of the same challenges and triumphs.”

Future visions for the league include a dedicated, permanent physical space that could serve as a gallery, workshop, studio, and retail space, and Ellis also dreams of launching a signature regional art festival.

“Ultimately, I hope the league becomes an even more indispensable resource and source of inspiration for every artist along the North Shore, fostering a truly thriving and interconnected artistic ecosystem,” he shares. “The journey of an artist is often solitary, but it doesn’t have to be. Join us, and let’s grow together.”

Yearly membership starts at only $35 for an individual, and more information is available at: northshoreartistsleague.org.

Dana Johnson

NORTH HOUSE FOLK SCHOOL

Learn traditional craft on the shores of Lake Superior

North Shore Artists League exhibition at the White Bear Center for the Arts in White Bear Lake, Minn., in 2024. | SUBMITTED

GRAND MARAIS, MN NORTHHOUSE.ORG

Pancakes, Planes, and Fall Colors: Arrowhead Eagles Hosts Annual Fly-In/Drive-In Breakfast

GRAND MARAIS On a crisp morning in late September, the Grand Marais/Cook County airport will welcome the arrival of pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and community members for the annual fly-in/drive-in pancake breakfast.

The event, hosted by the Arrowhead Eagles Aviation Organization, a local nonprofit, features delicious traditional and blueberry pancakes, as well as discounted airplane rides, weather permitting. The flyin/drive-in event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 27, from 8-11 a.m., and is thoughtfully timed to coincide with the fall colors, offering spectacular views of the Arrowhead region from the air.

“The leaves should be beautiful,” said Mike Raymond, president of the Arrowhead Eagles. “We just hope for good weather.”

The annual gathering draws pilots and the occasional rare airplane from across northeastern Minnesota and the state.

“It’s always great to see new airplanes and people flying in from around the state,” said Raymond. Because flying is largely weather-dependent, the Arrowhead Eagles also welcome individuals to arrive by car, which, he said, is the method many Grand Marais residents tend to use.

Throughout the years, Raymond said the fly-in/drive-in pancake breakfast typically has a “pretty good turnout” with approximately 100 to 125 people in attendance.

Founded over five years ago, the Arrowhead Eagles is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group devoted to supporting aviation education

and fostering the careers of aspiring pilots. Through community engagement and fundraising efforts, such as the fly-in/drive-in event, the organization provides scholarships to individuals pursuing a career in aviation or a pilot’s license.

“That’s another part of the fly-in breakfast,” Raymond said. With the mission of the Arrowhead Eagles to promote career options and flight training opportunities, among other initiatives, the upcoming event provides an opportunity for youth and indi-

viduals to learn more about scholarships and the application process.

In May of this year, the Arrowhead Eagles awarded two $2,500 scholarships to Jordan Ekroot and Jack Haussner, both working toward their pilot’s licenses.

In years past, scholarship recipients have included Silver Bay’s Larry Hickman, who received support to continue his studies in aviation, as well as Amy Kloster, Vaughn Swindlehurst, Haussner, and Ekroot.

Raymond said the money raised during the upcoming fly-in/drive-in pancake breakfast will go towards the next round of scholarship opportunities. A scholarship recipient is selected and then announced during the May Arrowhead Eagles annual meeting.

While the blueberry pancakes are a hit during the annual event, one of the other highlights is the opportunity to take a discounted scenic flight over Grand Marais and view the beautiful fall foliage.

Raymond said the event will also feature various vintage airplanes on display and a chance to see the Grand Marais/Cook County airport. The cost of the upcoming fly-in/drive-in pancake breakfast is $12 for adults, and $8 for kids under 16.

For more information about the event, contact the Grand Marais/Cook County Airport at 218-387-3024 or visit the Arrowhead Eagles’ Facebook page. Make sure to mark your calendars for Sept. 27; the annual gathering is an ideal way to welcome fall, support a local organization, and celebrate aviation in Cook County. Kalli Hawkins

Jordan Ekroot stands with Arrowhead Eagles board members. Ekroot was one of two scholarship recipients this year. | SUBMITTED

Pink Salmon

An Improbable Tale in Lake Superior

NORTH SHORE—Most of the trout and salmon species found in Lake Superior were not native to the lake. Steelhead, brown trout, and chinook and coho salmon were all introduced. But perhaps the most improbable species to show up in Lake Superior is the pink salmon.

Pink salmon (as well as chinooks and cohos) are native to the Pacific coast where they spawn in streams, then migrate downriver to the ocean for a few years before returning to their natal stream to spawn and die. Both chinooks and cohos were introduced to the Great Lakes to devour invasive alewives—a small, nonnative species that made it up the St. Lawrence Seaway and then used to die en masse, washing up on beaches and stinking to high heavens. So, they were brought here intentionally to solve the alewife problem. But the pinks? They were an accident!

Ontario wanted to stock pink salmon in Hudson Bay, so the province acquired about 800,000 pink salmon eggs from British Columbia’s Skeena River in 1955 and brought them to the Port Arthur Hatchery along the Current River. In 1956, fingerling pink salmon were loaded on a seaplane and delivered to Goose Creek for stocking. The 750,000 or so fish didn’t survive the stocking. For unknown reasons, about 21,000 fingerlings remained in the hatchery, so they were essentially flushed down a sewer that flowed into the Current River, which is a tributary of Lake Superior. Amazingly, this relatively small accidental stocking of fish no longer than your fingers managed to survive and actually started reproducing. In 1961, a few pinks were caught in the Nipigon and Pigeon rivers. From there, their numbers increased.

Pink salmon typically have a two-year life cycle. And like all Pacific salmon, after spawning, they die. So, pinks began showing up in streams in the fall of odd-numbered years to spawn. But over time, some fish began living for three years in the lake’s cold, nutrient-poor water before maturing, so some fish began spawning in even-numbered years as well. Pinks are small fish. An adult spawning male measures only about 16 inches long. They are sometimes caught while trolling on the lake. They generally only run a foot or so in

[ABOVE] Close-up of a silvery, lakecaught pink salmon. Silvery fish caught in the lake are decent eating, but they are best eaten fresh, not frozen. | SUBMITTED

[LEFT] Author Joe Shead with a male "humpy" caught on a North Shore stream. Note the spawning colors, the hooked jaw, and the humped back. | SUBMITTED

length and can be hard to detect on your line, especially on large boats. Silvery fish caught in the lake are decent eating, but they are best eaten fresh, not frozen.

In August and September, pinks run up tributaries of Lake Superior to spawn, particularly after a good rain raises the water level. It’s a good time to try to add a new species to your angling list, but even if you’re not a fisherman, it’s just plain fun to watch these fish swim around in shallow water, where males fight for position and the chance to court a female.

The fish are cylindrical out in the lake. They are generally silver, with a pink and blue sheen when caught just right in the light. The inside of their mouths is black, and they have oval spots on the top of their backs and throughout their tails. Pinks change color when they enter streams to spawn. They turn olive green, with dark ovals on the back and tail. They typically get a pink wash along the center of their side. They also have white on their lower side, just above the belly. Although females retain their cylindrical shape, males develop a hooked jaw called a “kype” and a pronounced hump on their back, which gives them their common name “humpy.” Once pinks develop their spawning colors, the flesh is poor eating.

Unlike chinooks and cohos, young pinks head out to the lake rather than staying in the stream after hatching. This gives them a leg up because North Shore streams have low flows most of the year, outside of spring runoff and heavy rain events.

It’s amazing to watch these relatively small fish work their way upstream, over rapids, pulled by a deeply rooted desire to fulfill their destiny of spawning one time, only to perish shortly after.

The improbability of pink salmon surviving one accidental stocking seems astronomical, but they are in Lake Superior to stay. This fall, head down to the mouth of nearly any North Shore stream and you’re likely to see these little salmon carrying on their spawning tradition.—Joe Shead

For over 30 years, the North Shore Health Care Foundation has created innovative solutions to improve the health and wellbeing of Cook County, MN—developing and launching community programs to make a lasting impact.

From Care Partners to the Oral Health Task Force to Restorative Justice, our programs have become trusted resources and part of the fabric of our community.

Today, we’re proud to share our new name: Vital North Foundation

Our mission hasn’t changed—we’re here for YOU. Together, we can build a vibrant northern community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Learn more about where we’re headed at www.vitalnorth.org

Silver Bay Gears Up for Annual ATV Minnesota Ride and Rally Event

SILVER BAY—The North Shore will be the gathering place for hundreds of ATV riders this fall as Silver Bay hosts the 2025 ATV Minnesota State Convention Ride and Rally from Sept. 26-28.

The annual event, organized by ATV Minnesota, rotates locations each year and serves as both a celebration of the state’s ATV community and a fundraiser to support clubs and advocacy work across Minnesota.

This year, three local North Shore clubs have teamed up with ATV Minnesota to sponsor the 2025 Ride and Rally event. The three clubs collaborating with ATV Minnesota are the Wild Country ATV Club, the Silver Trail Riders Snowmobile/ATV Club, and the Finland Snowmobile/ATV Club.

“We work really closely with the ATV clubs in the area to help us put this thing on,” said Jim Beauregard, a northeast regional director for ATV Minnesota.

Beauregard said the three local clubs help raise funds to host the annual convention, including providing funding for banquet food and logistics for planned events.

Planned activities include trail rides that

explore the North Shore’s vast ATV trails, spanning the Superior National Forest and Finland State Forest.

The event opens on Friday, Sept. 26, with the annual President’s Ride, which starts from the Rukavina Ice Arena in Silver Bay. Riders will follow a loop that passes through several trail systems, stopping for lunch at the Finland Community Center before returning to town.

Beauregard said ATV Minnesota invites state legislators, local leaders, mayors, and county commissioners to the annual state convention and to ride along on Friday’s President’s Ride. Approximately 20 state and local leaders have committed to attending the upcoming Ride and Rally event, including Minnesota Senator Grant Hauschild, Minnesota Rep. District 3A Roger Skraba, Minnesota Rep. District 3B Natalie Zeleznikar, and numerous others.

“We have legislators this year coming from all over the state,” Beauregard said. “So, we’re excited about that.”

The Friday ride-along and convention is an opportunity to demonstrate to legislative

This year’s annual ATV Minnesota Ride and Rally event will take place in Silver Bay, held September 26-28. | ATV MINNESOTA

While the Ride and Rally is the state convention for ATV Minnesota, membership in the organization is not required to attend. |

leaders the positive economic impact that ATV use can have in smaller, rural areas. It’s also an opportunity to showcase the advocacy work and riding opportunities local clubs have maintained with the support of ATV Minnesota.

“It is a really big part of what the state convention is,” he said. “We’re about showcasing and making sure that we’re helping to provide legal riding opportunities.”

The following day, on Saturday, Sept. 27, participants can choose from guided rides starting in Two Harbors, Silver Bay, or Finland. Riders can also explore the region independently using the area’s interconnected trail system.

Saturday evening, convention attendees will gather for a banquet at the Rukavina Ice Arena. The evening features both silent and live auctions, serving as a major fundraiser for ATV Minnesota. Clubs and businesses across the state contribute auction items, which can range from outdoor gear to guided trips.

While the Ride and Rally is the state convention for ATV Minnesota, membership in the organization is not required to attend. The goal is to draw both experienced riders and newcomers to the sport. For many participants, Beauregard said it’s an opportunity to explore a new riding area while meeting others who share the same interest. For

local clubs, it’s a way to showcase their trails and raise awareness about the economic impact of ATV recreation in the region.

The Ride and Rally event also highlights the partnerships required to maintain and expand Minnesota’s ATV trail network.

Many of the routes pass through public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, requiring coordination on maintenance and upkeep. Local volunteer clubs handle much of the on-the-ground work, from grooming trails to clearing downed trees after storms.

Beauregard said another partnership that has played a significant role in spreading

the word about ATV trail riding opportunities and sponsoring the 2025 Ride and Rally event is Lovin’ Lake County. “They have been fantastic.”

Registration for the Ride and Rally is available through ATV Minnesota’s website (atvmn.org), where participants can also find details on ride schedules, maps, and banquet tickets. For those unfamiliar with the trails of Silver Bay and the North Shore area, the event provides an opportunity to experience some of the most scenic ATV riding in the state while supporting local clubs and ATV Minnesota.— Kalli Hawkins

ATV MINNESOTA

OPEN DAILY

10am - 5pm

Gift Shops • Wildlife Viewing Picnic Areas • Hiking Trails Family Fun for Everyone!

Saturday, September 6

Ryan Pennesi: Conservation and Camera Capturing 2:00-3:00pm

Saturday, September 13

Northern Lakes Arts Association A Beacon for Creativity and Community

ELY—At the Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) in Ely, the arts are more than entertainment—they’re a way to hold a community together.

Greenstone Art Camp is a joyful three-day experience for children entering grades 1 through 6. | SUBMITTED museum and nature center

Martin Kubik: Backpacking Trails in the BWCAW & other stories 2:00-3:00pm

Saturday, September 20

David Hakensen: Helen Hoover on Gunflint Lake 2:00-3:00pm

Saturday, September 27

Erik Simula: Arrowhead Journey 2:00-3:00pm

“Our mission is uplifting Ely and the surrounding communities by presenting, promoting, and celebrating the visual, literary, and performing arts,” said Executive Artistic Director Ian Francis Lah (he/they), who returned to their hometown after working across the country as an actor, director, and cruise ship entertainer. “We’re all about using the arts to uplift our community.”

Founded nearly 40 years ago, NLAA has grown from a small-town presenter to a creative hub drawing artists and audiences from across Minnesota, the Iron Range and beyond. It hosts local talent and professional touring performers, balancing community expression with outside inspiration.

“Sometimes we bring shows in so people in the area can see new things,” Lah said. “And sometimes we create opportunities for locals to perform and participate. It’s both—being an audience member and being a dancer, an actor, a poet.”

A COSTUMER’S EYE AND A TEACHER’S HEART

For Laurie Kess, an NLAA board member, the organization’s impact is personal and communal. A retired home economics teacher and former principal at Ely Memorial High School, she began volunteering in the costume department years ago.

“I really enjoy the work—it’s a nice creative challenge,” Kess said. “All the performances here mean people don’t have to travel far for entertainment. For me, the arts here have been life-enriching.”

Kess said NLAA is especially valuable in winter, when it gets residents out of the house and socializing. Her son, Brian, participated in NLAA productions during his school years and went on to major in theater at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

YOUTH PROGRAMS THAT BUILD CONFIDENCE

Jennifer Toddie, who moved to Ely from St. Paul four years ago, said her daughter Asa, now 11, has blossomed through NLAA’s theater and arts programs. Asa has performed in “Matilda” and “Elf,” attended the Greenstone visual arts camp, and danced with Reflections Dance Company. “It’s been an amazing confidence-builder and identi-

ty-shaper,” Toddie said. “It pushed her beyond what she thought she could do.”

Toddie credits the directors, choreographers and fellow cast members for creating a space that is both nurturing and challenging. “She’s learned to trust herself, trust the people around her, and develop strong relationships with other cast members.”

Asa remembers being nervous before her first audition. “I definitely was shy,” she said. “But being in the plays and doing all that work with NLAA has made me a lot less shy and more confident.”

CAMPS, CLASSES, AND INCLUSIVE DANCE

The 22-year-old Greenstone Art Camp— offered in partnership with the nonprofit Greenstone Arts group—serves students in grades 1-6 with three-day camps. In addition, workshops are available for students in grades 7-12, covering painting, sculpture, and mixed media.

Reflections Dance Company creates “a

welcoming and joyful environment for all people, of all ages and body types, to have fun and move their bodies.” The group emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, offering a space where creativity flourishes.

With many rural schools unable to offer robust arts instruction, NLAA helps fill the gap, giving young people opportunities to discover and develop creative skills.

THE ARTS AS AN ECONOMIC ENGINE

Lah believes the arts are a powerful economic force, especially in small towns like Ely.

“I’m a firm believer that arts and culture are the unspoken economic hero of the Iron Range,” Lah said. “We’re non-extractive and nonseasonal. If we have a bad winter, the arts can still bring people here. We’re the glue.”

In recent years, ticket buyers have come from Thunder Bay, Florida, Nebraska, and across Minnesota. But the real reward, Lah said, isn’t in the numbers—it’s in the grocery store.

“There’s always a show each year that reminds me why I do this,” Lah said. “Last year, ‘Bright Star’ lit up the stage. This year, ‘Next to Normal’—with its portrayal of mental health struggles—moved people deeply. Weeks after the show, I’ll run into someone while picking up milk, and they’ll say, ‘That changed something for me.’ That kind of connection doesn’t always happen in big cities.”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Lah’s goal is not just to sustain NLAA, but to lead.

“I want us to be a gem of the Iron Range,” they said. “If we invest in placemaking, in culture, in art-making, we’re not just making Ely better. We’re showing what’s possible across the whole region.”

To learn more about the Northern Lakes Arts Association in Ely, visit: northernlakesarts.org.— Naomi Yaeger

A Different Kind of Coffeehouse The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop

THUNDER BAY—How best to describe The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop, located in Thunder Bay’s Urban Abbey, which is modeled after ancient Celtic abbeys?

For starters, it’s a distinctive, one-ofa-kind coffee place that is part of a beautifully repurposed 118-year-old church in the downtown hub of Thunder Bay’s “Old Town” (formerly Port Arthur, now part of Thunder Bay). The old church is the former First Baptist Church, situated at the corner of Red River Road and Algoma Street. Built in 1907, it could seat 450 people and was constructed using pressed Milton bricks and white building stone from sandstone quarries on Lake Superior’s Simpson Island at the entrance to Nipigon Bay. The building is now part of the Waverly Park Heritage Conservation District, which includes 70 downtown properties and the beautiful historic Waverly Park (named a parkland in 1871).

Fast forward to today, and the old church is now home to Urban Abbey, which is the mission arm of the global Anglican Communion. Its programs are supported in part by proceeds from its non-profit, The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop.

According to their website, “In short, the abbey tries to serve our community and its urgent needs from various initiatives.” Urban Abbey is modeled after ancient Celtic abbeys with a traditional focus on prayer, workshops, community, hospitality, restoration, and creative arts. (The term Celtic generally refers to the languages and cultures of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, and Brittany—regions also sometimes referred to as the Celtic nations.)

Open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., The Habit offers a variety of high-quality coffee blends including espresso, cappuccino, flat white, latte, drip coffee,

Open Monday to Saturday, The Habit offers a variety of high-quality coffee blends, as well as non-coffee drinks and pastries that are baked on site. | SUBMITTED

and mocha; non-coffee drinks like hot chocolate, London Fog, chai latte, matcha latte, and tea; and pastries that are baked on site. The unique coffee house has a cozy and rustic atmosphere with warm lighting, stone walls, wooden beams, a variety of comfortable seating including booths made from church pews, stained glass windows, and an inviting ambience that combines the comfort of a modern café with traditions of Celtic culture. As one tourist commented, the place is “urban trendy with the feel of history.”

On Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m., the coffee shop becomes the “Dementia Café: A Place to Belong,” when Urban Abbey, in an ongoing partnership with Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay and Lakehead University’s Centre for Education and Research in Aging and Health, invites people living with dementia and their care partners to come to the safe and welcoming space for coffee and pastries.

September Local Artist of the Month: Mary Bebie On Exhibit through September 7: The Glass Group Opening Exhibit September 12: Plein Air Grand Marais (feat. 60 artists) Sept 12 - Oct 5

The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop helps sustain the operation of the Abbey’s programs, which include two 20-bed shelters: Abbey Place Women’s Shelter and the Emergency Overflow Shelter. And this past December, Urban Abbey was awarded $3.5 million in Ontario government funding to create 38 transition housing units in three different areas of Thunder Bay. Scotland Morrison, head of staff and lead pastor, said all units will be completed by the end of 2025. All are welcome to come to The Habit, enjoy excellent coffee (or a choice of drinks) and scrumptious homemade pastries in a unique environment—while at the same time supporting Urban Abbey in its work in the community.— Elle Andra-Warner

Located in Thunder Bay, this old church is now home to Urban Abbey, which is the mission arm of the global Anglican Church. | SUBMITTED

The Duluth MakerSpace

“Duluth’s

Best Kept Secret”

DULUTH—Do you remember your middle school industrial tech class? Was yours as fruitless as mine? For me, shop class was a meaningless blur. I had no ambition. The only thing I can recall making was a wooden birdhouse (95 percent my dad’s work). Fast forward 30 years later, and I would kill to do shop class all over again—everything in my house needs fixing! But I lack the skills and wherewithal to do most of these projects. Now I’m constantly wishing there was a place where I could learn to fix appliances, make a new shelf, or repair that cabinet door. Turns out that such a place already exists—it’s the Duluth MakerSpace.

Inside the MakerSpace’s eclectic-looking façade at 3001 W. Superior Street, in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a hive of human ingenuity. Once you get through the door, it’s like being transported to the shop class of your dreams—for adults.

The MakerSpace has everything DIYers need. First, the workshop space. Imagine having a fully equipped workshop loaded with cutting-edge tools, and not in your dirty garage, or your cluttered basement, but rather in an open-plan, bright, accessible space. The MakerSpace has cart-fulls of lithium batteries (all fully charged), power tools that can make your day, and heavy-duty vacuums to get the clean-up done after your project.

Secondly, the MakerSpace is a team. Instead of struggling all alone to solve a building task you don’t even understand to begin with, you’re now part of a vibrant community of fellow makers. Everywhere you look there’s inspiration from people doing cool projects, like making their own jewelry out of Lake Superior agates, or crushing their own business of duck sculptures crafted out of repurposed bowling pins (really!). Here you can see how others use tools, and get expert advice and support on how to implement your own building ideas.

Thirdly, the MakerSpace is an organization. They’re a non-profit of like-minded people who teach classes on how to do the

The MakerSpace has everything DIYers need, with a fully equipped workshop loaded with cutting-edge tools. |

CHRIS PASCONE

things you wish you could get done, but don’t know how. Skilled teachers explain how to use new tools like kilns, bandsaws, or cabbing machines. The MakerSpace is clean, it’s organized, and it’s available whenever you need it, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, 365 days a year. Whether you’re into electronics, woodworking, robotics, or textiles, this is the place to bring your ideas to life. Maybe you’re purpose-driven, or maybe you just want to hang out, take a class, and learn as you go. You can take any approach you like at the MakerSpace.

Mike Olson, MakerSpace executive director, took me on a recent tour of the facility’s various workshops. We started in the lobby, where the members themselves, unsurpris-

Duluth MakerSpace executive director Mike Olson shows off one of the many MakerSpace workshops. | CHRIS PASCONE

ingly, are doing an overhaul of the flooring, walls, and heating. “Whatever work we need professionals to do, we’ll get them. We have licensed contractors for electrical and heating work, and we’re working with an architect to ensure we are getting necessary permits for the work being done. But the rest of it we get to do ourselves, which is great,” says Olson. “We’ll make it look less like an ‘80s machine shop.”

Next, we went to the metal shop, which Olson has a personal connection to. “I took an intro to welding class here, intending to buy a welder,” recounts Olson, “and then I priced welders, and realized I’d have to put 220 in my garage, and I don’t do wiring myself. It’s a tuck-under garage, in a house that my wife loves, and I figured at some point I’d send some sparks across the floor into the lawn mower, burn down the house, and end up in divorce court. I realized that the monthly membership fee at the MakerSpace was a pretty good deal. Since then, I’ve learned a whole lot of tools that I didn’t know how to use before.”

Olson then showed me the woodshop, the sewing shop, the craft space, the electronics hub, and the lapidary and pottery space. It’s a big building. But the MakerSpace is always looking for ways to branch out and spread the wealth of knowledge honed by its members and teachers. For example, the MakerSpace is currently creating a partnership with the Duluth Folk School to co-host classes at the MakerSpace. “They’re lacking the space for teaching some of the classes that make a bigger mess, and we obviously have the tools and the place to work. They have a database that is multiple times bigger than ours. We’ll get a small fee, but more im -

portantly, in my eyes, people who take the class will be exposed to the opportunities we have here,” explains Olson about the MakerSpace’s new partnership.

The MakerSpace was created in 2014 by Joe and Miranda Durbin as a private enterprise. The MakerSpace became a non-profit in 2018. Today it has over 3,000 accounts, with 950 all-time members. Anyone who takes a class at the MakerSpace creates an account, even if they don’t become members. The MakerSpace has 120 active members on average, month to month. “We’re

the best kept secret in Duluth,” says Olson. Monthly membership costs $55, or you can pay for one month only for $60, just to finally bang out that nagging project you can’t get done at home. Members who volunteer four or more hours a month pay only $35 per month. Finally, you can pay for the whole year at once for $550 (equivalent to 10 months of monthly dues). Couples can join together for only an extra $20 on the single person membership rate ($80 for a single month, $75 for a one-month membership, or

There are people that have started or nurtured small businesses at the MakerSpace. Then there are others who want to create, or be near creativity, such as Sarah Heimer, a visual artist and “rock hound” from Duluth who has taken lapidary classes at the MakerSpace. First, she took an intro to lapidary class, where she learned all the different machines in a morning, like the slab saw, the trim saw, and the cabbing machine. Then she took a follow-up class on making cabochons—the shaped, polished gemstones that are used in jewelry making. Heimer learned how to cut and grind stones to make shapes for jewelry. “My cabochon turned out really nicely, in my opinion,” says Heimer. “I would definitely recommend going to the MakerSpace, because they have CNC machines, and woodworking tools, not just lapidary. It’s for anyone who’s interested in making stuff.”

The purpose of the Duluth MakerSpace is to give people affordable access to tools, as well as a place to use them. Maybe you live in a college dorm, or an apartment, and don’t have a workspace. Olson also points out that more and more retirees are choosing not to own their own home as well. The MakerSpace can be your shop, your creative space to make those project dreams come true. “Some people join for the tools that we have, some join because there’s space to use them, and others join for the community of other makers and creativity,” explains Olson. “When you see people working in the MakerSpace, they light up, they nerd out, they live in their passion,” Olson adds.

Whatever your own DIY dream is, go check out the best kept secret in Duluth. To learn more, visit: duluthmakerspace.com.

The MakerSpace has a sewing shop, as well as a woodshop, craft space, electronics hub, a lapidary and pottery space, and more. | CHRIS PASCONE

Open for Dining

Autumn Elevated Viewing Fall Colors From Above

NORTH SHORE

—One of the North Shore’s many attractions is its fall colors—when the leaves change from bright, vibrant green to an array of yellows, reds, and oranges. Many people visit the North Shore to drive the backroads, engulfed by the natural beauty of the seasonal change. Like driving, there are lots of hiking and biking trails throughout northeastern Minnesota that also let you view the fall colors.

While all those methods are spectacular in their own ways, there are people on the North Shore who can take that experience and bring it up a notch—literally. Sawtooth Aviation and Lake Superior Helicopters offer fall colors from above, with views from the sky that you simply can’t get from a hike. Lutsen Mountains’ gondola experience is similar, offering spectacular views from

the top of Moose Mountain to the coastal shoreline. All of these opportunities allow for a unique and full fall colors experience.   Lutsen Mountains, located on Ski Hill Road in Lutsen, offers year-round activities such as downhill skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and an alpine slide and gondola rides in the summer and fall. The gondola provides an enclosed ride to the top of Moose Mountain. On your way up, you’ll see immaculate views of the Sawtooth Mountains, as well as the shoreline of Lake Superior.

Rising 1,000 feet above Lake Superior, the gondola offers a gentle ride. “I’m afraid of heights, but when you’re on it you just feel safe,” said a worker from Lutsen Mountains. The ride takes about 10 to 12 minutes one way—perfect for taking in the astonishing view of the changing colors.

You now have the option of a standard gondola ride, or taking part in the new signature gondola experience, where you can enjoy a private ride with up to seven other friends and family members. As part of the signature experience, they also offer coffee drinks from the registration desk prior to your ride, and a goodie bag with housebaked cookies, bottled water, and a free appetizer coupon for Charlie’s Alpine Bistro.

The Lutsen gondola is a fun, unique experience, sure to meet all your fall color needs. To learn more, including times and rates, visit: lutsen.com.

All the methods of seeing the fall colors have their perks—taking a hike or drive or riding the gondola—but “it’s not the same as getting that extra thousand feet of elevation, where you can see for miles in all directions,” says Mike Raymond, pilot and owner of Sawtooth Aviation.

You might even see a moose when viewing the fall colors from above.

Operated with two pilots, Sawtooth Aviation offers scenic flights for up to three people per ride, all starting from the Grand Marais airport. The rides commonly go along the ridges of Lake Superior in the fall, specifically down by Lutsen where the maple ridges are filled with deep reds and or-

Taking a gondola ride at Lutsen Mountains is a fun, unique experience the whole family will enjoy. | LUTSEN MOUNTAINS

anges. Sawtooth Aviation offers both a halfhour flight and an hour-long flight.

An airplane ride is an amazing way to get a full view of the North Shore and wilderness all at once, and who knows... you might even see a moose. Getting a bird’s-eye view allows you to see things that you can’t experience from a drive or hike.

For more information on Sawtooth Aviation, visit: sawtoothaviation.com.

Located in Duluth, Lake Superior Helicopters offer year-round tours. There are a lot of misconceptions about helicopters—some

people think they are choppy and unsafe. However, this is untrue, and an employee at Lake Superior Helicopters assures that being in their helicopters is a “safe, smooth, and comfortable ride. Once you’re in the air a sense of calm washes over you.” Their program is very accommodating to passengers with a fear of heights, or any other concerns that you may have. Their number one priority is making sure you can get the full experience while up in the air.

Along with their tours, Lake Superior Helicopters also has a flight training program,

and all their pilots have gone through their program. Like Sawtooth Aviation, they offer both a 30-minute flight and an hour-long flight, which takes you roughly 30 to 60 miles, depending on your flight time. Based on the weather and your comfort level, they can remove the doors to give you a more involved experience, giving you better views and more photo opportunities.

To learn more about Lake Superior Helicopters, visit: lakesuperiorhelicopters.com.

The North Shore has so much to offer, and there are so many ways to up your fall col-

ors experience. A gondola ride up to Moose Mountain will give you a view of the North Shore, while staying closer to the ground. A plane ride with Sawtooth Aviation will take you all over the North Shore and Boundary Waters, allowing you to see the colors from a new perspective. Or take a ride with Lake Superior Helicopters, offering a smooth, comfortable flight over Duluth and the North Shore. If you’re venturing outside this fall, try viewing the fall colors from above.

Patience Sifferath

Sawtooth Aviation and Lake Superior Helicopters offer fall color flights, with views that you simply can’t get from a hike. | SAWTOOTH AVIATION

Walls that Speak:

Murals of the Northland

By Dana Johnson

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a mural is a novel—and you can find a small library of them all over the Northern Wilds.

Murals are different from traditional paintings not just in size, structure, and technique, but also in how they impact the community. They are free to view and enjoy by both residents and visitors, and they reflect the identity of the areas they inhabit. They often depict local history and legends or celebrate natural beauty, becoming beloved landmarks that encourage people to consider and connect.

Shown here are only a few of the many murals that can be found throughout the Northland, with more being created by skilled local artists and their supportive communities every year.

|

“The Beaver House,” by Lyle Saethre, 2003. Located at the Beaver House, 12 Wisconsin Street, Grand Marais. | BY LAURIE HALL

“Talking Heads,” by Christian Chapman, 2025. Located at Red Lion Smokehouse, 16 Cumberland Steet South, Thunder Bay. | KATHLEEN HAMILTON

“The End of an Era,” by William E. Defenbaugh, 2000. Located at Your Boat Club (formerly the Conoco Station), 3 East Sheridan Street in Ely.

ADELIA KINDSTRAND-CLARK

Colorful vertical animal mural, located at Art & Soul Gallery, 427 East Sheridan Street, Ely.

| ADELIA KINDSTRAND-CLARK

“Burlington Station,” by Brian Olson Studio, 2021. Located at Burlington Station, 320 7th Avenue in Two Harbors. | DANA JOHNSON

“Finland Cooperative,” by Dale Knaffla Jr., 2011. Located at Finland Cooperative General Store, 6648 State Hwy 1, Finland. | DANA JOHNSON

“Snowy Owl,” by Adam Swanson, 2018. Located at Bali Asian Cuisine, 1931 West Superior Street in Duluth. | DANA JOHNSON

A flowing and colorful collaborative mural by Shelby Gagnon, Ricky Kruger, Lak William, Ryan Pooman, Johnny Longfeather, and Luke Goerzen, 2023. Located at Lakehead Beer Co., 206 Park Avenue, Thunder Bay. | KATHLEEN HAMILTON

“Nakweshkodaadiwag Gitchi Gami / They Meet/Gather at Lake Superior,” work in progress by Adam Swanson and Sam Zimmerman, 2025. Located at the Cook County Co-op, 20 1st Street, Grand Marais. | KRISTI SILENCE

Grand mural depicting the Beaver River and Beaver Bay, by Mary A. LaBerge, 2011. Located at 1008 Main Street (Hwy 61), Beaver Bay. | DANA JOHNSON

“Water Science Manoomin,” by Adam Swanson, 2021. Located on the back side of Happy Sleeper, 2010 West Superior Street, Duluth. | DANA JOHNSON

GROWING UP WILD

By Dana Johnson

CAMPING TRADITIONS

PART TWO

DIFFERENT KIND OF CAMPING

By Elle Andra-Warner

How is “camping” actually defined? Well, Oxford Dictionary calls it “living in a tent or similar structure, typically on holiday as a recreational activity,” while Britannic Dictionary notes “activity of sleeping outdoors in a tent usually for enjoyment,” and Cambridge, “act of staying and sleeping in an outside area for one or more days and nights usually in a tent.”

Looking back on my childhood days, though my parents would take us on picnicking day-trips to places like Kakabeka Falls or along Lake Superior, we never camped outdoors in a tent. Sometimes we’d “go to camp” at a friend’s place to spend a night or two, but camp meant a summer house or cabin that had four solid walls and amenities thanks to electrical or propane power. (Later in life, we owned a lakeside camp for leisure “going to camp” weekends.)

My first outdoor tent camping trip didn’t happen until I was about 20 years old when I, with a couple of co-workers from Ontario Hydro Regional Office, went camping at Alexander Landing on the Nipigon River. We were camping novices, but managed to set up a tent, make a campfire to cook food, make coffee, and sing around the campfire in the evening after fishing during the day. Admittedly, the forest noises at night kept me awake while everyone else slept soundly.

Although we did return the following year to the same spot for camping, I knew recreational tent camping was not for me. One exception though was decades later on a

I don’t come from a camping family, but my passion for it started young. My folks preferred day tripping to a nearby scenic lake or river, back when it was easy to drive up to a lakeside campground near Grand Marais, and find a nice site to occupy for a few hours for free. After swimming, fishing, and roasting hot dogs over a fire, they were ready to head home to traditional creature comforts—but I didn’t want to leave the woods.

When I was around 10 years old, my mom traded in some of her Marlboro miles for a tent. I quickly claimed it as my own and started “camping” in my yard with friends. We also used the tent as a fun outdoor hang-out spot during the day. Sometimes I left the tent up for so long that the grass died underneath, and eventually the sun weakened the fabric until it fell apart completely.

When I was a little older, I started camping in the forest on our five acres. I remember being inside my tent reading a book when something suddenly jumped on top of the rain fly, its heavy feet almost ripping through the fabric! I froze for a moment, both afraid and excited for what it might be, until the creature announced itself with a loud, “Meow!” Chloe the family cat had followed my scent, and she was happy to join me inside my cozy abode for a while. Soon she made it clear she did not want to stay the night by clawing at the sides of the tent, so I walked her home before it got dark.

These days, I try to get out camping as often as I can, which isn’t often enough. Accessible yet remote camping is my favorite. I prefer to find an isolated, rustic campsite where my party has a lake to ourselves, and it feels as though we’re alone in the wilderness. I recognize that for some people that’s a terrifying thought, but for me, it’s comforting on a deep level. I feel most in touch with nature and with myself when I am surrounded by the incredible boreal forest and clean, clear water we are lucky to have at our doorstep.

two-family weekend camping trip to Sandbar Lake Provincial Park, north of Ignace, Ontario. After that, there were only two other times in my life that I’ve camped outside overnight in a tent, both times as a travel journalist.

The first was on a seven-day wilderness “kayak camping” trip on the Johnstone Strait channel along the northeast coast of Vancouver Island between the island and mainland British Columbia. (By the way, did you know that according to outdoor bloggers, there are more than two dozen types of camping? More on that later.) Each day, we kayaked to a different island and then tent camped there at night. On one island we hiked through a rainforest to visit a whale researcher set up on top of a hill; another day we visited an island with an abandoned First Nations village and were met by an elder who told us stories about the people, culture, and life at the village.

My fourth and last time camping outdoors was on a four-day guided “adventure camping” trip on the shores of Hudson Bay at Polar Bear Provincial Park, which we reached after about a three-hour motorized freighter canoe trip on the Winisk River. Large tents were already set up when we arrived; when another group joined us for the night, the placed looked like a tent village. The highlight of that trip was flying in a bush plane watching polar bears in the wild.

While those outdoor camping times years ago delivered some great memories of adventure and exploring, my camping preference is the comfort of a camp with four walls, a comfortable bed, and amenities, plus books and magazines to read.

Author Dana Johnson enjoys camping that’s accessible yet remote. She prefers isolated, rustic campgrounds where her group can have the lake to themselves.

| DANA JOHNSON

While she didn’t come from a camping family, Dana Johnson’s passion for it started young. These days, she tries to go camping as often as possible.

| DANA JOHNSON

Elle and her husband Glenn kayaking in Johnstone Strait on their way to another island to explore and spend the night tent camping.

| ELLE ANDRA-WARNER

As mentioned previously, besides tent, kayak, and adventure camping, here’s a glimpse at some types of camping that outdoor bloggers have listed: car, RV, or camper van; truck bed camping; music festival camping; roofing camping (sleeping on top of a van or truck with a tent and sleeping bag); backyard; beach; wild or dispersed camping (outside of designated campgrounds); survival; and more.

MY FAVORITE FIRST NIGHT CAMP MEAL

By Tom Watson

Cooking was the first merit badge I earned in Scouting so many decades ago. Never a “hotdogs and beans” campfire chef, I’ve since baked pies and hams in campfire ovens, biscuits in Dutch ovens, simmered stews and sauces, and prepared myriad other main course meals over the hot coals of a campfire.

Preferring a more primitive, back-country style of camping, getting to the trailhead on those short, two-night weekenders I’d take along the North Shore, the first night’s meal came after the site was set up and secure. Having the tent pitched, bags laid out, firewood collected, and a warming radiance coming from the fire ring created an inviting atmosphere for my preferred first-night, relaxing, rustic campfire cuisine—a perfectly cooked steak and a glass of fine wine.

Steak at a backpacking wilderness campsite? While it may sound a bit highbrow, cooking it was completely caveman style.

Steak open-fire grilled on a stick, complimented with wine poured into a breakdown glass from a foldable, soft-sided bottle classic back-packing cuisine at its best. |

A choice cut of meat was sliced into 4- to 5-inch strips, each about a quarter-inch thick. Those were then placed in a strong freezer bag, covered in a bath of good red wine, and sealed. Stowed in a cooler in the car, the strips marinated in wine during the trip north. Carefully secured near the top of the backpack or in a side pocket, the pouch of chilled, marinated steak was ready for its final preparations as soon as camp was set up and the cooking fire glowing.

Just like roasting marshmallows, a pointed stick was used to skewer a steak strip onto the sharp end and carefully cook it over the hot coals. Each piece of steak went immediately from its wine marinade to the fire, cooked exactly to the degree of doneness desired, individually to juicy perfection. The remaining wine not needed for marinade was transferred to a soft-sided bottle or carried in a small flask to be enjoyed at the campfire.

A major part of the joy of camping is preparing and cooking a variety of meals over the glowing embers of one’s campfire. Those entrées don’t need to be limited to reconstituted quick meals or a warmed can of beans. A morsel of sizzling steak, cooked to perfection and coupled with a fine glass of wine, is a great, tasty way to kick that first night’s meal in camp up an elegant notch or two.

CAMPFIRE ALCHEMY

By Anne Graybeal

My grandparents retired to a little red cabin on a pond in western Massachusetts. For my father and grandfather, trout fishing was second nature, but I had serious qualms about the enterprise, whether putting the worm on the hook or knocking out our catch with a wrench. My father, an exploration geologist with experience navigating remote terrain from eastern Russia to west Africa to the South Pacific, found my squeamishness both charming and exasperating.

One summer weekend when I was about 6 years old, my father rowed us across the pond, and we (well, he) pitched a pup tent just far enough into the woods to render the cabin invisible. I was skeptical of the project but not unwilling to participate. As the night wore on, we cozied up in our sleeping bags, and I tried not to imagine armies of vengeful trout sneaking onto shore to nibble my toes. I couldn’t wait to be back in bed in the safety of that little red cabin.

THE PORTABLE CAMP SHOWER

By Chris Pascone

My family has all kinds of camping traditions: overpacking, making cinnamon rolls from scratch at the campsite, sleeping on the ground at least 30 nights a year—the list goes on. One personal camping tradition that I am particularly fond of is taking an outdoor shower come July or August. I know the summer has been a success if I get at least one outdoor camp shower in. Here’s how it works. First, the tool—we use a Sea to Summit 10L Watercell Bag to transport and dispense drinking water on long canoe camping trips. It’s a tough piece of kit that allows us to filter in drinking water and carry it wherever we go. But this instrument also has a cool secondary feature—a shower head attachment. This tiny nozzle with many holes fascinated me from the start when I bought our first Watercell five years ago. Was this the secret solution to hygiene, comfort, and class in the backwoods? Washing off all the sweat right in camp seemed like some powerful act of defying the grind and grit of canoe tripping. Sure, you can always take a dip in the lake, but I was dying to try showering.

That summer I made it a point to test the shower function on a hot day on the beach on Lake Superior. With my wife’s trusty help holding the bag, I experimented with the adjustable flow and water temperature (the bag is black, and attracts heat), and had a luxurious low-tech shower (no soap though).

Since then, I’ve made it a point each summer to get a woodsy shower in. Maybe it’s the challenge of finding a good branch to hang the bag from—at least 7 feet off the ground—with space underneath to move around in. Or the sense of daring as you stand naked in the woods with mosquitoes swarming all around. Finally, it could be that little pinch of Dr. Bronner’s peppermint soap that goes such a long way to making you feel like a human being again after hot, sweaty portaging.

Whatever the case, I have now camp showered in Quetico Provincial Park, Voyageurs National Park, and the BWCAW. I mark each summer as complete when I take my outdoor shower. It’s a little tricky, and water is limited, so you could call it “hardship showering.” But I love the “just enough to get by” aspect of camping. And 10 liters is actually way more than one really needs for a fulfilling shower. Trust me—the refreshing feeling you get from transforming that jack pine branch in the back of camp into a luxurious salle de bain goes a long way to making you feel like “yes, I can rough it with the best of them.”

The next morning brought a vivid and unmistakable smell: freshly cooked bacon and eggs. Scrambling out of my sleeping bag, I saw my father crouched over the campfire, tending to our bounty. It seemed like wizardry: whence this feast? It was, without a doubt, the best meal I had ever eaten.

It wasn’t until years later that I realized that he had surreptitiously rowed the boat back to the house at daybreak, gathered breakfast items from the fridge, and returned to bring our morning feast to fruition.

His culinary tactic succeeded in changing my attitude toward nature. In the years since, I have back-

packed in Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, prospected for dinosaur fossils in Utah, rafted through the Grand Canyon, and, with my father, hiked through Montana’s Beartooth Mountains. Setting up a tent might have become second nature, but never have I succeeded in matching that Berkshires breakfast.

This spring, as I described an upcoming sojourn to the Boundary Waters, he asked, “What turned you into such an outdoorswoman?” The descriptor—a wild exaggeration—threw me for a loop. In the moment, I had no good answer. But while on that BWCAW trip, crouched over a camp stove to prepare my morning oatmeal, I knew the answer: He had. Thank you, Dad.

Summer is a success if Chris Pascone gets at least one outdoor camp shower in. | SUBMITTED

Fred and Anne Graybeal on Mill Pond in Sheffield, Mass. | SUBMITTED

TOM WATSON

By Breana Johnson

Art & Studio Tours

September is a busy month, filled with art festivals and self-led art tours throughout the North Shore. Be sure to mark your calendars for the annual Lake Superior 20/20

Studio & Art Tour, held Sept. 26-28 near Two Harbors, followed by Art Along the Lake, held Sept. 26-Oct. 5 in Cook County. See our events section for more information.

David Gilsvik is the artist behind this this oil painting. Gilsvik will be a host artist during the Lake Superior 20/20 Studio & Art Tour. | DAVID GILSVIK

Photographer and Lake Superior 20/20 host artist Christian Dalbec took this image of Lake Superior, near Spit Rock Lighthouse. It’s titled “Morning Sherbert.” Dalbec’s guest artists are Ray Shelerud and Chris Dillon.

| CHRISTIAN DALBEC

This intricate silver necklace, created by Sarah Flicek, is titled “Fall Harvest.” Flicek will be a guest artist to Chrissy Gildersleeve during Lake Superior 20/20. | SARAH FLICEK

Rebecca Barrett of The Wilder Woodshop creates functional wood art pieces for cooking and entertaining, such as this chevron cheese slicer board. She is a host artist for Art Along the Lake. | REBECCA BARRETT

Art Along the Lake host artists Dan and Lee Ross create pieces using stone, clay, glass, and monoprints, such as this one. | DAN & LEE ROSS

Tim Vahle is one of the newest gallery locations for Art Along the Lake. Visitors will enjoy a collection of plein air and studio landscape paintings from the North Shore and other U.S. locales. | TIM VAHLE

Photo Highlights

Below are some of last year’s entries in our photo contest. While these were not the winners, they are beautiful photos and we wanted to feature them. This year’s photo contest is open until Sept. 30. Enjoy the fall colors, snap some photos along the way, and enter them here: bit.ly/loveofnorth

[TOP, L TO R]: Timing was just right. A tree frog that has not been out of the pond long, tail still present. | NICOLE BIRCH; Morning at Artists Point. | MIKE LENTZ; Sled Dog Team Crossing Poplar Lake past a Hoarfrost Shoreline, John Beargrease. | KEN HARMON

[MIDDLE, L TO R]: Star Gazer. | LEVI JANSSEN; Monarch Butterfly. | BRUCE SYMINGTON; Great Gray Owl Face. | ED LEE

[BOTTOM, L TO R]: Moose Kiss. | ROBERT BERLUTE; Frosty-n-Foggy Morning at Lax Lake. | DALE JOHNSON; Superior Surfin' Stoney Point. | JOHN HEINO

Walking Through Open Doors

Betsy Bowen’s Life in Print and Place

Creative Space: By

“I try to pay attention to world affairs until about 9:30 in the morning,” said Betsy Bowen with a quiet laugh, “and then I go do something good, if I can think of it.” For decades, that “something good” has meant making woodcut prints, raising a family, and shaping a creative life that has come to reflect both the evolution of Grand Marais and the rhythm of craft.

Bowen grew up in Chicago, but the North Shore came into her life through an unexpected channel: dance. “The link is my dance teacher,” she said. “My sister and I took lessons two towns over from a woman named Laura Grant. She ended up renovating an old farmhouse just outside of Grand Marais. She came up in the summer and taught dance for local kids.”

That connection set off a cascade of changes. “My mom had a heart for the Northwoods,” Bowen recalled. “My dad was more enthusiastic about the melting pot of the city, but he got on board. He liked sailing. At one point, they brought a sailboat up here; there wasn’t much sailing here then.”

It was the early 1960s, and Grand Marais was far from a tourism destination. “There were people hosting fishing and hunting trips. A lot of commercial fishing. And logging. There used to be stacks of logs piled high down by the harbor. Tugboats would come from Ashland and tow them out across the lake. That was fascinating to watch.”

Eventually, Bowen’s parents bought an old farmhouse outside of town. “It’s about 15 minutes out. I’m still there,” she said.

The farmhouse was intended to provide a contrast to their city life. “I think of my mom treating it as a cultural experience for us,” Bowen said. “The neighbors would come to cut hay for their horses, and my mom would say, ‘Watch what they do.’ It was a lovely way to be part of the community.”

Bowen eventually made Grand Marais her own home, raising three sons and rediscovering her artistic path after working at Lutsen Mountain and Sivertson Gallery. “I don’t really understand planning for the future,” she said. “It’s more like walking through open doors, seeing what’s there. I had no idea where I was headed, but I liked it here, and it’s good.”

One of those open doors was the former church on First Street, which she bought in 2002. “I had known the building when it was a community theater in the ‘70s. Thirty-five years of performances. The ceiling upstairs is still painted black from that time,” she said.

When her son Jeremy suggested they move the print shop into the church basement, that was enough of a spark. “I called a construction friend and said, ‘Okay, how crazy is this?’” she recalled. “Probably a naive thing to do, but I’m so glad.”

The building evolved slowly into a creative hub. “We added heat and plastic on the windows. Now there are six workspaces upstairs. North House Folk School’s Artisan Development Program hosts emerging makers, there’s a bakery, and a pottery studio.”

Bowen doesn’t take credit for a grand vision. “It wasn’t the plan from the beginning. It was just like…noticing the empty

Anne Graybeal

space. Seeing who needed it. It’s just kind of grown. I like when things are used.”

Bowen’s own path into printmaking was similarly organic. “My college art teacher, he was a painter, but he thought I’d be interested in woodcuts. He gave me a couple tools and said, ‘Find yourself a piece of wood.’ It stuck with me.”

Though life paused her printmaking for a while—“I had two little hippie kids, and then a third”—the work came back when space and time allowed. “We were living that back-to-the-land life,” she said. “Huge gardens, chickens, pigs. We could put a whole meal on the table in the middle of winter, all from the land. That’s a lovely feeling.”

Her first major printmaking project came through a gallery connection and led to

her first book: Antler, Bear, Canoe. “It was an alphabet of prints, really a story of our homesteading life. That book led to others, and to art fairs. I didn’t know how to do it; I just figured it out.” She has since published several more.

Her next book project, Leaf Town Forever, will be published in September by University of Minnesota Press.

That regional connection has been meaningful. “The books aren’t all about Minnesota, but they’re grounded in the place I live. That fits me.”

She’s also found ways to connect her art with nature education. “Wolf Ridge Environmental Center asked me to do a calendar, so I made twelve bird prints for the months. Now I do one every year. It’s my

winter project. I ask naturalists, ‘What birds are you seeing?’ and go from there.” Through it all—books, calendars, gallery shows, and evolving community spaces— Bowen keeps sketchbooks full of “bits and bobs,” as she calls them. “I never run out of ideas. There’s always more to do. Sometimes I just think, ‘Okay, what’s next?’ and there’s the next open door.” Her work, like her life, reflects a balance between personal meaning and communal connection. “I just think it’s nice when you can track where something comes from,” she said. “Whether it’s the eggs from across the street or a print you made yourself. There’s something really beautiful about that.”

Grand Marais artist Betsy Bowen bought her current studio and gallery in 2002. | SUBMITTED

A woodcut print created by Betsy Bowen. | SUBMITTED

Bowen’s studio and gallery location also houses six workspaces upstairs, including a pottery studio. | SUBMITTED “Birch” by Betsy Bowen. | SUBMITTED

9/5 - 9/7

- 9/12 Plein

9/12 - 10/5 Unplugged 9/19 - 9/20

9/26 - 10/5

9/27

10/16 - 10/18

SUPERIOR FALL TRAIL RACES

Sept. 5-6 This challenging foot race, held on the Superior Hiking Trail, offers distances of 100, 50, and 26.2 miles. If the distance isn’t challenging enough, the terrain is. It is a rugged, rooty, and rocky trail with near constant climbs and descents. The 100-mile race will begin at Gooseberry Falls State Park at 8 a.m. on Friday; the 50-mile race starts at the Finland Community Center at 5:15 a.m. on Saturday; and the 26.2-mile race begins on Cramer Road in Schroeder at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Each race will finish at Caribou Highlands Lodge in Lutsen. Race registration required. superiorfalltrailrace.com

RURAL HERITAGE DAYS

Sept. 5-6 The 93rd Annual Rural Heritage Days Slate River Plowing Match, sponsored by the Rural Heritage Agricultural Society and the Ontario Plowman’s Association, will take place Sept. 5-6 in the Slate Riv-

er Valley near Thunder Bay (Hwy 130 and Piper Road). Enjoy tractor and farm exhibits and displays, plowing competitions, tractor rodeos, a children’s area, a tractor parade, antique cars, food booths, vendors, various demonstrations, and more. The gates open at noon on Friday and at 9 a.m. on Saturday. slateriverplowingmatch.ca

RADIO WAVES MUSIC FESTIVAL

Sept. 5-7 Area residents and visitors of all ages are invited to come together for three days of music at Sweetheart’s Bluff in the Grand Marais Rec Park, as part of WTIP’s 18th Annual Radio Waves Music Festival. The music festival will start at 4 p.m. on Friday, with musical acts continuing all day

Saturday and Sunday. This year’s festival includes 19 musical acts, including six new performers—Lynden Graham, Danny Frank & the Smoky Gold, Son of Mel, Moonshot, Tina Hegg & Drew Heinonen, and The Penny Peaches. Vendors will be onsite with food and beverages, but outside food and drinks are accepted on the grounds, too. Admission is available online or at the gate, and ages 17 and under are free. wtip.org

HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL

Sept. 5-7

Enjoy autumn in Ely with the 31st Annual Harvest Moon Festival, filled with arts and crafts, food vendors, and fun for the whole family. Held at Whiteside Park, there will be over 100 artists and crafters showcasing their work in everything from paintings, woodcrafts, and apparel, to pottery, photography, and jewelry. There will also be a food court with everything from pulled pork and oriental offerings to fresh baked blueberry pies and other treats. The festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 5

This year’s Plein Air Competition in Grand Marais is Sept. 5-13. | SUBMITTED

This year’s Unplugged festival at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais will take place Sept. 19-20. | SUBMITTED

p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. ely.org/events

PLEIN AIR COMPETITION

Sept. 5-13

Plein Air Grand Marais is a 27year tradition bringing outdoor painters to the North Shore of Lake Superior for a week of painting, competition, learning, and camaraderie. Plein Air Grand Marais welcomes artists of all ages and abilities. The competition class consists of invitational and experienced painters, and the open class consists of registered artists. The annual Birney Quick Paint competition at Artist’s Point will take place on Thursday, Sept. 11, and an opening reception for the competition class exhibition will be held at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Johnson Heritage Post. The exhibit will be on display until Oct. 5. outdoorpaintersofminnesota.org

LAKE SUPERIOR HARVEST FESTIVAL

Sept. 6, Saturday Celebrate the harvest season at the 31st Annual Lake Superior Harvest Festival at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth. This free family-oriented event includes artisan vendors, live music, educational demonstrations, a renewable energy fair, and one of the largest famers market in the region. This year, the farmers’ tent will showcase the season’s bounty. Shoppers can come early and stock up, then drop off the heavy bags at the “Produce Parking Station” at the Lake Superior Sustainable Farming Association info tent while they enjoy the festival. Festival activities include maypole dancing, petting chickens, a blacksmith, and crafting with Duluth Folk School. Food available will include ice cream, coffee, lots of baked goods, tacos, fried fish, and more. The festival will take

place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free; $10/car for parking at Bayfront. sfa-mn.org

WAKE THE GIANT MUSIC FESTIVAL

Sept. 6, Saturday Great ready to pump it louder! Wake the Giant Music Festival returns to the Thunder Bay Waterfront this year, with its most epic lineup yet, featuring the Black Eyed Peas, Prozzäk, Neon Dreams, Crystal Shawanda, The Poets, Wyatt C. Louis, G Dubz, and Walking Bear. Wake the Giant isn’t just a music festival though—it’s a world-class celebration of inclusivity and Indigenous culture. Enjoy live art installations, cultural experiences, yummy local eats, an Indigenous craft market, and a kids zone. The gates open at 11 a.m. and tickets can be purchased online. wakethegiant.ca

TERRACE BAY FALL MARKET

Sept. 7, Sunday The annual Terrace Bay Fall Market is a vibrant celebration of the North Shore’s diverse flavors, cultures, and creativity. Every September, the market brings together local vendors, artists, and community groups for a lively gathering that showcases the region’s unique offerings. Held from noon to 4 p.m. at Simcoe Plaza, visitors can enjoy a variety of handcrafted goods, delicious local foods, and artwork that reflects the spirit of the area. visitterracebay.ca

NORTH SHORE

INLINE MARATHON

Sept. 12-13

Take part in one of the most iconic inline skating events in the U.S. by joining the 29th Annual North Shore Inline Marathon in Duluth. No matter if you skate, run, or rollerski, the North Shore Inline has a race for you. This year’s races consist of half and full marathons in skating and rollerskiing, a half marathon run and a tunnel 10k run, kid’s sprints, and more. The full Inline Marathon is a 26.2mile point-to-point course that takes place along the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, starting in Two Harbors and ending in downtown Duluth. Race registration is required. Other activities include a skate and health expo, a Friday Night Skate, rollerski and aggressive skate demos, and more. northshoreinline.com

DULUTH OKTOBERFESTIVAL

Sept. 12-14 The 6th Annual Duluth Oktoberfestival, held in Bayfront Festival Park, will feature food, games, arts and craft vendors, and fun for the whole family. There will be authentic German bands and musicians performing, as well as local bands. Games and activities include corn hole, stein holding contests, nagelbaken, barrel rolling, a barrel toss, a dachshund derby, and more. Bring the kids to the Kinderplatz Kids Zone for a petting zoo, alpacas, kids barrel rolling, inflatables, and more. The main Bier Hall will feature dancing, live

music, and authentic biers of Bavaria. You’ll also find a variety of authentic food, including brats, sausages, schnitzel, strudel, funnel cakes, and more. Tickets can be purchased online. duluthoktoberfestival.com

CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Sept. 13, Saturday Grand Portage Lodge and Casino will host a classic car show with food, fun, and wicked cool cars and trucks. The show will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with awards presented at 3 p.m. Those wishing to enter a vehicle have until Sept. 10 for early registration: cost is $10. Registration the day of the show is $15 and

Duluth is home to the annual North Shore Inline Marathon. | SUBMITTED

Duluth Oktoberfestival has activities for the whole family. | GRANDVIEW AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Learn

buy a home

Black Beach Inn

opens at 8 a.m. Afterwards, enjoy live music by the Sensational Hot Rods from 8-11 p.m. grandportage.com

ANCIA SAXOPHONE QUARTET

Sept. 13, Saturday Praised for their “energy, precision, and huge dynamic range,” the Minneapolis-based Ancia Saxophone Quartet has captivated audiences worldwide with their compelling interpretations and boundary-pushing repertoire. With over 30 years of experience, Ancia has established itself as one of the leading saxophone ensembles of its kind, commissioning and premiering works by renowned composers such as Libby Larsen, Jennifer Higdon, and Lei Liang. The Ancia Saxophone Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. in Grand Marais at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts. Tickets are based on a sliding scale pricing tier: $10-30; children 12 and under are free. northshoremusicassociation.com

ARTS & CULTURE UNDER THE LIGHTS

Sept. 19, Friday Kick off Ontario Culture Days in Thunder Bay with Arts & Culture Under the Lights, a vibrant

celebration of creativity, culture, and community, set against the stunning backdrop of Marina Park. This free, family-friendly event brings together diverse cultural experiences, from music and dance performances to literary readings and artisan markets. Enjoy hands-on art demonstrations, light art installations, global cuisine, interactive displays, inspiring readings from local authors and storytellers, live entertainment, and more. Experience all of this under the glow of beautiful lights, creating a magical atmosphere for an unforgettable evening. Held from 6-9 p.m. Admission is free. thunderbay.ca/underthelights

UNPLUGGED 2025

Sept. 19-20 Celebrate community, music, and crafting at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais. Enjoy a community-focused evening on the commons on Friday, with food trucks and a wide range of beverages for purchase, as well as opportunities to connect with craftspeople in the Folk Artisan Marketplace, all ahead of a free outdoor concert with Jeffrey Foucault and Kris Delmhorst. Be sure to bring a lawn chair. Saturday morning features a free family concert, along with hands-on family craft opportunities. There will also be ice cream for sale from Superior Creamery. Saturday evening activities include a reimagined version of the iconic Birch Bark Bash with a live auction, live music, food and drinks, the Fund-a-Need Auction, and more (tickets required). northhouse.org

ELY MARATHON & HALF MARATHON

Sept. 20, Saturday Signup for one of three races in Ely during the Ely Marathon. Races include the 5k Northern Lights Color Glow Run at 7 p.m.

on Friday, Sept. 19 (open to all ages and abilities); the 26.2-mile Ely Marathon at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday; and the 13.1-mile Highland Bank Half Marathon at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Those wanting a bigger challenge can portage a canoe for the entire marathon or half marathon races. There will also be a kid’s marathon, coined the Dorothy Molter Root Beer Run; kids are asked to run 25 miles prior to marathon day. Then, on race day, they will run the remaining 1.2 miles of the course. Other activities include an awards ceremony, food trucks, a beer and root beer tent, live music, inflatables for the kids, a merchandise tent, and more—all at Whiteside Park. Race registration required. elymarathon.com

THUNDERCON

Sept. 20-21 ThunderCon is northwestern Ontario’s premiere fan convention, bringing together lovers of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, comics, anime, and pop culture for an unforgettable celebration of fandom. Held at the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition in Thunder Bay, there will be celebrity guests and panels, cosplay competitions, gaming zones, exhibitors and vendors, and more. This year’s guests include Doug Jones, Heartberry Moon Art, the Jurassic Jeep, Rosemarie Sarno, Kitt Vallieres, Steve Zmi-

jak (aka Doctor Stevil), Matt Cimone, and more. The 10th Annual ThunderCon will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, or at the door. thundercon.ca

LAKE SUPERIOR

20/20 STUDIO & ART TOUR

Sept. 26-28 As crisp, fall air fills the atmosphere, you know it’s time for the 14th Annual Lake Superior 20/20 Studio and Art Tour, located at various studios and galleries in the Two Harbors area. This year’s tour will feature 54 artists at 19 host sites, including four host farms. Artists include Luke Krisak

(ceramics), Christian Dalbec (photography), Chris Dillon (watercolors), Doug Jackson (wood), Britta Keenan (leather), and more. The tour runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. An interactive tour map is available online. lakesuperior2020.com

ART ALONG THE LAKE

Sept. 26-Oct. 5 Fall in Cook County is a time of tumultuous beauty, so take some time to explore the colors and meet artists during the self-led Art Along the Lake tour. Stops include home studios, as well as galleries, with guest artists. All locations will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. This year includes 25 locations participating, such as Betsy Bowen Studio & Gallery, Hannah Palma Ceramics, Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, Jo Wood Bead Art, Joy & Company, Linda Ricklefs Baudry, Neil Sherman Studio, North House Folk School, Grand Marais Art Colony, Vahle Fine Art, and more. A full list of participants and locations can be found online. artalongthelake.com

Located in Thunder Bay, the 10th Annual ThunderCon is northwestern Ontario’s premiere fan convention, bringing together lovers of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, comics, anime, and pop culture.

| THUNDERCON

HECK OF THE NORTH

Oct. 4, Saturday The 17th Annual Heck of the North gravel bike races will start and finish on the East Alger Grade, North Shore State Trail parking lots (north of Two Harbors on Hwy 61). There will be three course options: a 105-mile course, a 56 milecourse, and a 19-mile course (perfect for those new to gravel cycling). The races will take place in waves, starting at 8 a.m. with the 105-mile race. The 56-mile race will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 19-mile race at 9 a.m. Race registration is required (riders 18 and younger ride free with an adult). heckofthenorth.com

Paula Gustafson is a guest artist in Art Along the Lake this year. | SUBMITTED

| LUKE KRISAK

NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thru Sept. 1

Aaron Kloss Exhibit: Aurora Borealis Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, aaronkloss.com

Thru Sept. 7

The Glass Group Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Thru Sept. 14

Benjamin Chee Chee: Modernist Painter Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Big Back Yard Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

On a Silver Platter: Kris Goold Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

The Moth Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Thru Sept. 16

Heidi Wanzek: Within the Threshold Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Charvis Harrell: The Games We Play Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Thru Oct. 19

Monica Ihrke: Invasive Plants in My Backyard Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, monicaihrke.com

Thru Dec. 31

Can-Car & The Rosies Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

Aug. 29-Sept. 1

Nipigon Fall Fishing Festival Nipigon, Ontario, nipigonfallfishingfestival.com

Aug. 31-Sept.1

Hymers Fall Fair 9 a.m. Hymers, Ontario, hymersfair.ca

Sept. 1, Monday

Labor Day

Terry Fox 45th Anniversary Sleeping Giant Hike 8 a.m. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Thunder Bay, terryfox.org

Sept. 1-30

Photography & Art at the Rock: Mark Ellis Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors, mnhs.org/splitrock

Sept. 3, Wednesday

Pop Up! Wedding Dress Sale 3 p.m. Ramada by Wyndham Thunder Bay Airlane Hotel, visitthunderbay.com

Free Concerts on the Pier: Superior Siren & Jumpsuit 5 p.m. Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org

Sept. 4, Thursday

State Parks Hiking Club with Phil Hartley 5:30 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Speaker Night: Geologist Gabe Sweet 6:30 p.m. Larsmont Little Red Schoolhouse, larsmont.org

Sept. 4-7

Europa Super Circus CLE, Thunder Bay, supercircus.com

Sept. 4-Oct. 5

Arrowhead Artist Exhibition: Cecilia Rolando (Reception Sept. 6 at 4 p.m.) Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Sept. 4-Oct. 25

Fall Exhibition: Hazel Belvo: Walking the Croftville Road (Reception Sept. 4 at 4:30 p.m.) Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Sept. 5, Friday

Frank F. Weber Author Talk: A Forensic Psychologist & True Crime Author 10:30 a.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Mayor’s Mulligan Golf Tournament 11:30 a.m. Strathcona Golf Course, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/prokidsthunderbay

Creaking Tree Farm Tour 1 p.m. Creaking Tree Farm, Lutsen, tinyurl.com/creakingtreetour

Minnesota Mile 6 p.m. Enger Park, Duluth, grandmasmarathon.com

Free Concert: Chris Mulkey & Scarlet Rivera 7:30 p.m. City Center Park, Silver Bay, rockywallentertainment.org

Sept. 5-6

Superior Fall Trail Races North Shore, superiorfalltrailrace.com

Rural Heritage Days: Slate River Plow Match Noon (9 a.m. Sat.) Slate River Valley, Ontario, slateriverplowingmatch.ca

Sept. 5-7

Harvest Moon Festival 9 a.m. (10 a.m. Sun.) Whiteside Park, Ely, ely.org/events

Radio Waves Music Festival 10 a.m. (4 p.m. Fri.) Grand Marais Rec Park, wtip.org

Sept. 5-13

Plein Air Competition Cook County, outdoorpaintersofminnesota.org

Sept. 5-30

Artist of the Month: Chris Dillon (Reception Sept. 5 at 7 p.m.) Tettegouche State Park, Silver Bay, mndnr.gov/tettegouche

Sept. 5-Oct. 9

Weaving Ancestry Exhibition: Martha Bird (Reception Sept. 5 at 6 p.m.) Nordic Center, Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org

Sept. 6, Saturday

Come Cruzin’ The North Shore Car Show 8 a.m. Sonju Two Harbors, lovinlakecounty.com

Lake Superior Harvest Festival 10 a.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, sfa-mn.org

Wake the Giant Music Festival 11 a.m. Thunder Bay Waterfront, wakethegiant.ca

Benefit House Concert: Chris Mulkey & Scarlet Rivera 7 p.m. Silver Bay, rockywallentertainment.org

Basso Profundo! 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s United Church, Thunder Bay, consortiumab.org

Sept. 7, Sunday

West Thunder Corn Roast & Vendors Market 11 a.m. West Thunder Community Centre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/westthundercommunitycentre

Terrace Bay Fall Market Noon, Simcoe Plaza, Terrace Bay, visitterracebay.ca

Family Art Days 1 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Full Moon Poetry with The League of MN Poets “Agates” Tour 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Sept. 7-12

Heart of Hospitality: Coffee Break Cook County, visitcookcounty.com/events

Sept. 8, Monday

Songbird Musical Stories with Miss Rebecca 10 a.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Sept. 9, Tuesday

Free Concerts on the Pier: Big Wave Dave & The Ripples & Born Too Late 5 p.m. Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org

Sept. 10, Wednesday

Free Writing Workshop with Brian Malloy: Point of View 6 p.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org

Sept. 11, Thursday

Lego Open Build 4 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Sept. 12, Friday

Fantastic Ferns 1 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Films on Fridays: The Men Who Tread on the Tiger’s Tail 6 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events

Sept. 12-13

North Shore Inline Marathon Duluth, northshoreinline.com

Sept. 12-14

Duluth Oktoberfestival 11 a.m. (4 p.m. Fri.) Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, duluthoktoberfestival.com

Sept. 12-20

Points North Online Auction North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Sept. 12-28

Million Dollar Quartet 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

Sept. 12-Oct. 5

Plein Air 2025 Exhibition (Reception Sept. 12 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Sept. 13, Saturday

Classic Car Show 11 a.m. Grand Portage Lodge & Casino, grandportage.com

Rockin Recovery 1 p.m. CLE Coliseum, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/ thunderbaydrugawarenesscommittee

James Ellis: Artist-in-Residence Meet & Greet 4 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org

Author Talk: Carl Gawboy, Rain Newcomb, Staci Lola Drouillard: Fur Trade Nation 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Ancia Saxophone Quartet 7 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, northshoremusicassociation.com

Whose Live Anyway? 7:30 p.m. Decc, Duluth, decc.org

Sept. 13-14

Village Mercantile Market Noon, Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park, Slate River, ophp.ca

Sept. 14, Sunday

Ely Cultural Alliance Toasts to the Season 10 a.m. Ely’s Historic State Theater, ely.org/events

Terry Fox Run 10 a.m. Superior Greenstone District School Board Learning Centre, Red Rock, run.terryfox.ca

The Good Harvest Farmer’s Market 10 a.m. Goods & Co. Market, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/goodscomarket

Terry Fox Run 1 p.m. Current River Recreation Centre, Thunder Bay, run.terryfox.ca

Sept. 15, Monday

Colorful Coiled Baskets with Erika LeMay 10 a.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Sept. 16, Tuesday

Caregiver Appreciation Retreat Noon, Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, carepartnersofcookcounty.org

Kozak Siromaha Canadian Tour 7 p.m. Nortenos Cantina, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

Crash Test Dummies 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Sept. 17, Wednesday

Antique Appraisal Noon, St. Louis County Depot, Duluth, thehistorypeople.org

Take It to the Limit: Eagles Tribute 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Sept. 18, Thursday

Lego Open Build 4 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Steve-O: Crash & Burn Tour 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Sept. 18-20

Vox Popular Film Festival Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/ voxpopularfilmfestival

Sept. 19, Friday

Arts & Culture Under the Lights 6 p.m. Marina Park, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/ underthelights

Bid for the Arts: Auction Fundraiser 6:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca Northern Lights 5k Glow Run 7 p.m. Whiteside Park, Ely, elymarathon.com

SGFMS: Ian Tamblyn 8 p.m. Bora Laskin Theatre, Thunder Bay, sleepinggiant.ca

Sept. 19-20

Unplugged 2025 North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Dirt Track Nationals Thunder City Speedway, Thunder Bay, thundercityspeedway.ca

Sept. 19-21

Hawk Weekend Festival Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Duluth, hawkridge.org

Sept. 19-Oct. 12

Culture Days Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/events

Sept. 20, Saturday

Ely Marathon & Half Marathon 7:30 a.m. Ely, elymarathon.com

Scandinavian Festival 9 a.m. Aspirus St. Luke’s Sports & Event Center, Proctor, twinportsrosemaling.org

Chester Bowl Fall Fest 9:30 a.m. Chester Bowl, Duluth, chesterbowl.org

MN Takes Action: Save the Boundary Waters 10 a.m. Cook County YMCA, Grand Marais, savetheboundarywaters.org

Chippewa Challenge 4k & 8k 10 a.m. Chippewa Park, Thunder Bay, metreeaters.ca

Model Railroad Flea Market 10 a.m. Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Duluth, lsrm.org

Bob’s Stairs Fall Nature Hike 1 p.m. Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors, mndnr.gov/ splitrocklighthouse

Raag-Rung Music Circle Dinner & Concert Fundraiser 5 p.m. Italian Cultural Centre, Thunder Bay, raag-rungmusiccircle.com

Author Talk: Emma Torzs: Ink Blood Sister Scribe 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Spirit of the Times 6 p.m. Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

DSSO: Scheherazade 7 p.m. Decc, Duluth, dsso.com

Sept. 20-21

ThunderCon 10 a.m. CLE, Thunder Bay, thundercon.ca

HMCS Margaret Brooke Port Visit 10 a.m. Sleeping Giant Pkwy, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

Sept. 21, Sunday

Bill & Kate Isles 3 p.m. Historic Apostolic Lutheran Church, Embarrass, sisuheritage.org

Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party World Tour 7 p.m. Amsoil Arena, Duluth, decc.org

Sept. 22, Monday

Chamber Fall Golf Classic 10:30 a.m. Silver Bay Municipal Golf Course, lakecounty-chamber.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

Tuesdays

Hillside Farmers Market (Thru Sept. 23)

2 p.m. 503 E. 3rd St., Duluth, facebook.com/ centralhillsidefarmersmarket

Locals Night with Live Music 5 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Free Concert: Broadway in the Park & Ely Farmers Market 5 p.m. Whiteside Park, Ely, ely.org/events

Wednesdays

Happy Hikers Wednesday Hikes 9 a.m. Meet at Parking Lot near Grand Marais Tennis Courts, visitcookcounty.com/events

Game Day for Adults 1 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, facebook.com/communitypartnersth

Duluth Farmers Market 2 p.m. Duluth Farmers Market, duluthfarmersmarket.com

Thunder Bay Country Market 3:30 p.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca

Thursdays

Lincoln Park Farmers Market 3 p.m. Harrison Park, Duluth, facebook.com/lincolnparkfarmersmarket

ALS Bookmobile 4:30 p.m. McQuade Small Craft Harbor, Duluth, alslib.info

Sept. 23, Tuesday

CCHS Centennial Anniversary Celebration & Fundraiser 4:30 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Sept. 24, Wednesday

Lunch & Learn: It’s Time to (Fire)Wise Up! Noon, Cook County Higher Education, Grand Marais, carepartnersofcookcounty.org

Sept. 25, Thursday

Lego Open Build 4 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com

Roy Orbison & The Everly Brothers Reimagined 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Sept. 25-Oct. 4

La Ronde 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Sept. 26, Friday

AICHO’s Spooky Time Market 5 p.m.

Indigenous First: Art & Gift Shop, Duluth, facebook.com/indigenousfirst

Films on Fridays: The Mark of Zorro 6 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events

Stella Waxbar Annual Red Carpet Charity Gala 6 p.m. The Chanterelle, Thunder Bay, stellawaxbar.com

Sept. 26-28

ATV MN Ride & Rally Silver Bay, atvmn.org

Lake Superior 20/20 Studio & Art Tour 10 a.m. Two Harbors, lakesuperior2020.com

Sept. 26-Oct. 5

Art Along the Lake 10 a.m. Cook County, artalongthelake.com

Sept. 26-Oct. 17

Muse 12x12 Exhibition Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Sept. 27, Saturday

Grand Marais/Cook County Airport Annual Fly-in/Drive-in Pancake Breakfast 8 a.m. Grand Marais Airport, 218-387-3024

The Gunflint Scramble Bike Race 10 a.m. Bearskin Lodge, Gunflint Trail, gunflintscramble.com

Autumn Rendezvous Show & Sale 10 a.m. Neebing, Ontario, visitthunderbay.com

Bienvenue Coffee Fest 10 a.m. The Depot: Great Hall, Duluth, experiencethedepot.org

Art in Autumn Outdoor Market 10 a.m. Duluth Studio Market, Duluth, facebook.com/duluthmarket

Halestorm & Lindsey Stirling 6:30 p.m. Amsoil Arena, Duluth, decc.org

Clarinet Quintets with Peter Shackleton 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s United Church, Thunder Bay, consortiumab.org

Sept. 27-28

Applepalooza 10 a.m. (Noon Sun.) Beaver River Farm, Duluth, dixonsapples.com

Sept. 27-Oct. 31

Pumpkin Palooza Duluth Studio Market, Duluth, facebook.com/duluthmarket

Sept. 28, Sunday

National Public Lands Day 9 a.m. Boulder Lake ELC, Duluth, boulderlake.org

Sept. 29, Monday

Free: Community Mindfulness Night 6 p.m. Two Birds Healing Arts Center, Grand Marais, twobirdart.com

Oct. 4, Saturday

Heck of the North 8 a.m. Two Harbors, heckofthenorth.com

Harvest Booya Festival 11 a.m. Clair Nelson Center, Finland, facebook.com/finlandbooya

Thursday Night Art 3:30 p.m. Joy & Company, Grand Marais, joy-and-company.com

Grand Marais Farmers Market 4:30 p.m.

Community Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ grandmaraisfarmersmarket

Finland Farmers Market 5 p.m.

Clair Nelson Center, Finland, finlandfarmersmarket.com

Date Night with Live Music 6:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Silent Disco Dance Party 7 p.m.

Caribou Highlands Courtyard, Lutsen, visitcookcounty.com/events

Fridays



Barbara Jean & Mike Lewis 4:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Renegade Late Night Improv 10 p.m. Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Saturdays

Thunder Bay Country Market 8 a.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca Duluth Farmers Market 8 a.m. Duluth Farmers Market, duluthfarmersmarket.com

Kakabeka Farmers Market 9:30 a.m.

Beside KB Legion Parking Lot, Kakabeka Falls, facebook.com/ kakabekafarmersmarket

Cook County Market 10 a.m. The Hub Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ccfarmandcraft

Two Harbors Farmers Market 10 a.m. Seagren’s Home Hardware Outdoors, Two Harbors, facebook.com/ twoharborsfarmersmarket

Harbor History Walking Tour 1 p.m. History Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Free Presentations 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org

What’s for Dinner? 7 p.m. International Wolf Center, Ely, wolf.org

Sundays

Clover Valley Farm Trail Noon, Two Harbors & Duluth, clovervalleyfarmtrail.com

Weekend Wine Down 3:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Your favourite first stop in Thunder Bay! Family dining that tastes like home

Locally Owned and Operated

8am to 8pm 7 days a week

• Finn Pancakes • Hot Sandwiches • Homemade Soups • Friday Night Pickerel Dinner Special

• Large Selection of Homemade Desserts • Licensed • Shop our Locally Made Giftware and Souvenirs, that feature locally sourced Amethyst

The North Shore Dish

Where History, Art, & Food Collide

By Virginia George

The North Shore is often lauded for its natural beauty and variety of outdoor activities, like biking, hiking, and rock climbing. We have some stellar breweries, and really cool people. But one thing we also have is a rich and diverse history, from shipping to rails to recreation of the olde time “elite.”

This intriguing history is how I stumbled upon one of this month’s featured restaurants. My inner nerd shone through when the Lake County Historical Society hosted a “History in a Pint: Shipping and Shipwrecks” event at the Tipsy Mosquito. Not only was I fascinated by the presentation of shipwrecks on the North Shore (especially since we named our dog after the SS M.M. Drake, a steam barge which rescued at least four foundering vessels on the Great Lakes before meeting its demise in 1901… but don’t worry, his name is just Drake), but I was also pleasantly surprised at what the Tipsy Mosquito had to offer. From the outside, the Tipsy Mosquito looks like any dive bar on Main Street of any small town in America, but once I stepped inside, I was transported to a whole other world, where every fixture, every seating arrangement, and every inch of wall space is curated. This is a place where people care about the atmosphere, the plating, the preparation, and the development of sophisticated food, drink, and presentation.

Tipsy Mosquito Wine and Spirit Room, Two Harbors

The Tipsy Mosquito is one shop within a line of buildings along First Ave in Two Harbors. From the outside you’ll see an unassuming brick building with a commercial overhang stating its presence. “Tipsy Mosquito Wine and Spirit Room.” But once you step inside, you are greeted with plush chairs, candles and reading lights, cozy meeting spaces, and all the accoutrements of a tea room. They boast a vintage interior, with a cozy ambiance, wooden bar, and antique furniture.

Drinks at the Tipsy Mosquito come from their carefully curated wine and spirit collection, which features bottles from around the world, as well as some local favorites. Their food is served on vintage-styled dishes, and you and your friends can find a cozy corner in their vintage tea-room styled dining space, from a cozy sectional to wingback chairs and antique pedestal tables.

The Tipsy Mosquito menu is a delightful mix of lighter meal options. Their beef or “chix” nachos are smothered in homemade cheesy sauce with a variety of toppings. The loaded veggie flatbread consists of smoked gouda and pepper sauce with jack cheese,

red onion, green pepper,

and black

They also have a variety of handheld sandwiches like their Classic Tipsy Burger—your choice of breaded chicken or black angus brisket patty topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato,

and onion.

and a variety of toppings. |

The Tipsy Mosquito hosts a variety of local events like paint nights, History in a Pint, and more. They also are currently serving Sunday brunch buffets and a Monday dinner buffet. Check out their Facebook page to keep up with their events, or stop in

for a sandwich, nachos, or a signature cocktail or Mosquito mocktail.

Along the North Shore we also have a really cool performing arts scene. I began to list the local theaters and realized I was sure to miss one. We have community theater,

The beef nachos at Tipsy Mosquito are smothered in cheesy sauce

VIRGINIA GEORGE

tomato,

olives.

pickle,

opera, comedy, ballet, improv, and a variety of live music options. We’ve really got a rich artistic community that never ceases to amaze me. Zeitgeist Theater in Duluth is unique in that it is both a theater and a full restaurant. You can stop in for some pre-show nourishment, stick around for a post-show nightcap, or stop in just for some good eats.

Zeitgeist Restaurant and Bar, Duluth

Zeitgeist is home to the Teatro, a small and intimate stage, the Zinema, a two-screen theater which shows old and independent films, and the Zeitgeist Restaurant and Bar.

Zeitgeist is located in the heart of downtown Duluth, near Canal Park with access to the Lakewalk. The Atrium has recently been redecorated and boasts more seating for the restaurant, with the option to order directly from your table.

The cuisine at Zeitgeist rotates with the seasons, as the restaurant seeks ingredients from local farmers and suppliers in order to provide fresh and sustainable dishes to customers. The menu has many options for gluten and dairy sensitive folks, as well as vegan options. One summer menu item is the wild berry and arugula salad, which features strawberries, gooseberries, pickled blueberries, cucumber, red onion, radish,

and seared halloumi topped with blueberry mint vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts. They also serve staples like blackened fish tacos and a BBQ burger featuring 1/3-pound grass-fed burger patty, smoked cheddar, rhubarb barbecue sauce, fried onion, pickles, and lettuce. And their coconut curry is full of delicious vegetables: bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, mushroom, shallot, ginger, and garlic with coconut curry broth, brown rice, cilantro, and lime. Zeitgeist is a non-profit arts and community development organization, which seeks to give back to the community in a variety of ways and cultivate an inclusive, diverse, socially and environmentally conscious

Loggin’ Food at its Finest

Lakeside Dining Full Bar

Sun-Wed 11am-8pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-9pm

Available for banquets & weddings

Lakeside Cabins

Campground

5th-wheel Tents

Water & Electric Hook-up

Watercraft Rental

Kayak Fishing Boat Canoe Pontoon

world. You can find links to their major initiatives on their website under “Things We Do.” The restaurant has daily happy hours and live music every week.

The North Shore is truly a unique community with something for everyone. The climber, biker, hiker, baker, foodie, historian, art enthusiast, explorer, reader, and everything-else-er. There are so many facets of the North Shore, its history, and its people to explore, and I think the Tipsy Mosquito Wine and Spirit Room and Zeitgeist Restaurant and Bar would be happy to fuel your adventure. I hope you’ll get the chance to step inside and experience the unique experiences they each have to offer.

Located in downtown Duluth near Canal Park, the cuisine at Zeitgeist rotates with the seasons. | ZEITGEIST RESTAURANT AND BAR

Say Yes to the Stress?

By Hartley Newell-Acero

It’s easy to get stressed out about our stress levels. Stress can zap our joy, grind us down, and leave us exhausted. In an attempt to wrest some control back, we go to stress management courses, download meditation apps, and hook ourselves up to biofeedback devices. These can all be helpful, and…what if another part of the antidote is to add more stress to the mix?

This sounds like a recipe for disaster, until we pause to remember that there is more than one kind of stress: distress and eustress. We’re all familiar with distress. It makes us feel overwhelmed, like we’re unable to cope, and that we’re not good enough. It can increase feelings of depression, anxiety, and panic. Distress often crops up in situations where a person’s perceived “self-efficacy” is low. This means that they feel trapped in a situation and that there’s not much they can do to make it better. Distress can be caused by many things: bullying, being on the receiving end of controlling or manipulative behavior, overwork, the ending of a relationship, the death of a loved one, etc. Being chronically in the mode of “fightflight-freeze-faint” can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health. Living like this can cause insomnia, body aches, low energy, changes in appetite and digestion, unfocused thinking, and changes in how we relate to other people. It can also increase blood pressure and be a risk factor for a variety of health conditions, such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. In the short-term, distress can provide motivation for change, but living with prolonged distress isn’t just unpleasant—it’s dangerous.

Eustress doesn’t get nearly as much attention as its difficult sibling does. You’ve probably experienced it too—even if you didn’t have a name for it. Eustress is often short-lived, with a clear endpoint. While it

may cause temporary frustration or worry, it also brings with it feelings of fulfillment or happiness. Eustressful situations feel challenging, yet manageable. The person experiencing it feels confident and secure in their ability to positively influence their circumstances. Examples of experiences that can lead to eustress would be: exercise that’s a good match for a person’s abilities and level of fitness, travel, tasks that are simultaneously demanding and fulfilling, and major life changes that are wanted (moving to a new area, starting a new job, getting married, having a baby, etc.). This form of stress helps propel us to finish an important task, to study, or to do something ambitious that’s outside of our comfort zone. Eustress fuels our physical, emotional, and psychological growth, helps us to feel proud of what we can accomplish, keeps us motivated, and helps us to feel good about how we’re living our life. Eustress can actually improve a person’s physical and mental wellbeing. Eustress is different from the “burnout” of distress, and it also differs from the “rust out” of boredom. A lack of stimulation can lead to feelings of stagnation, dissatisfaction, or depression. This languishing can become a type of distress in itself.

Sources of distress and eustress will vary from person to person. Take public speaking, for example. Imagine there are two people getting ready for a presentation on a topic they deeply understand. They both have “butterflies” in their stomachs and have elevated heart rates. Person A hates the idea of public speaking, interprets their bodily sensations as confirmation of their fear, and avoids being in front of people whenever possible. Person B enjoys speaking in front of groups. They interpret their bodily sensations as evidence of their excitement and seek out opportunities for public speaking. One person’s distress is another person’s eustress.

In your life, how can you create opportunities for more eustress? Ask yourself:

What activities would feel a) challenging, b) doable, and c) have a clear path forward?

What new skill would I enjoy learning and practicing?

Where could I push myself out of my comfort zone?

What new goals could I set, and how can

CALL FOR ARTISTS

I remain accountable?

Stress is like friction. To move forward, we need the right amount. Too much, and we seize up—no motion is possible. Too little, and we slip around aimlessly. But when we hit that sweet spot, friction and stress provide traction. Sometimes, to make progress, it’s best to say “yes” to the stress.

Nor th Shore Health Request for Submission

Artists will be selected to exhibit works of art in the public areas of North Shore Health from October 1– January 31, 2025

North Shore Health (NSH) has a proud history of displaying the creative work of local artists in their public areas. This will mark NSH’s seventh exhibition since the pandemic ended. “We thank all the artists whose work has adorned our walls. We are excited to add student works to this exhibit,” said Kimber Wraalstad, NSH CEO. NSH is requesting Submission Proposals & Qualifications for the display of works of art. The art will

be paintings, fiber, photography, mosaic, sculpture, woodwork and mixed media; essentially artwork that can be displayed on walls or atop pedestals. The art will be displayed in the lobbies, hallways and other public areas of NSH. There are over 300 lineal feet of various spaces available, allowing artists to submit multiple pieces to be displayed.

For questions about the display area and submissions, please call

Todd Ford at 218-387-3508 or send email with jpgs of images to: Todd.Ford@northshorehealthgm.org

The works of art should reflect and celebrate aspects of the cultural, historical, geographical, or community attributes of Cook County and/or the North Shore. Art submissions should encourage a feeling of reflection, peace and nature consistent with an ambience of quiet reflection in a health care delivery environment. Selected art will be placed in areas of high profile to be viewed and enjoyed by visitors, patients, residents and employees of NSH. For complete details about eligibility, selection, ownership and use, continuing placement and how to submit, visit the NSH Facebook page or the Community News section at https:// www.NorthShoreHealthgm.org.

High School Students are encouraged to submit their artwork for this exhibit!

There is more than one kind of stress: distress and eustress. We’re all familiar with distress, but eustress doesn’t get nearly as much attention. | SUBMITTED

Northern Trails

The Brook Trout of a Lifetime

By Gord Ellis

As some of the regular readers of this column might know, I spend much of my summers guiding anglers in the Nipigon area of northwestern Ontario. Nipigon has a diverse fishery, with good opportunities available for walleye, bass, pike, lake trout, chinook salmon, and rainbow trout. However, it is the native brook trout that most people seek, and recently, I saw one of the largest of my life caught by a client.

But I’m getting ahead of myself.

My two clients on this trip were regulars from southern Ontario. Alyssa Lloyd is from Bancroft and Anneliese Bochenek lives in Hamilton. They are usually part of a larger group of fly anglers, but two of the women had to take a pass in 2025. So, in early August, the three of us were exploring what the Nipigon had to offer, and they had been doing well. On the first day, Anneliese had already beaten her personal best brook trout with a 23.5-inch beauty. The following two days were exceptional as well. Heading into the final leg of the four-day trip, expectations were high.

The last day was a full, sturgeon moon, and the water in the Nipigon was exceptionally cool for August—all good things for trophy brook trout. However, as we sat for breakfast at the Lodge in Red Rock, the mood was somber. A storm was rolling in and the radar was promising. We tried to drive to South Bay, on Lake Nipigon, but howling winds, lightning, and pounding rain turned us around. It was so dark I had to put the headlights on. We decided to return to the town of Nipigon, grab some Robin’s coffee, and gas up the truck. It was also a perfect time to get a new net. The second day of the trip ended with my Frabill net quietly exiting my trailered boat somewhere on the Trans Canada. We made it work on day three with a beautiful, handmade net, but I needed a long-handled boat net in the heavy water. So, we made a stop at the Canadian Tire in Nipigon—the smallest in Canada—and bought a Lucky Strike net with a 6-foot handle. This would come in handy.

With the rain starting to die off, I made the call to fish the lower Nipigon River, which runs into Lake Superior, in Nipigon Bay. The ladies were anxious to fish and readily agreed. We started by fishing some spots that had produced fish on day two. After a couple of hours hard-casting, there were no takers. It was starting to look like the last day might be a wash. However, a little further downstream Alyssa hooked a 15-inch brook trout that provided us some hope. Shortly thereafter, she hooked another fish. This one was larger and bulldogged

Gord Ellis and Alyssa Lloyd with the giant brook trout that Lloyd caught on a fly.

in the very strong current. It was a gorgeous 25-inch rainbow trout. By this time, the sun was peeking out and the day was warming. With fair weather settling in, the trout turned on. Anneliese tossed an olive streamer into a current break and was met with a hard strike. This fat brookie put up a good scrap and was brightly coloured. The tape said 19 inches long. It was carefully released. She followed that with an unexpected pike of about 30 inches, and a brookie half that size. The day was looking decidedly better.

With a light rain returning, I began our boat trip back to the launch. However, there were a couple of spots that needed to be tried before we packed it in. One was at the top of a rapids that had coughed up large fish for me in the past.

“I don’t think I’ve ever caught a fish in this spot,” said Alyssa, as she threw her white “Sex Dungeon” fly to the edge of the bank.

“This spot has been underperforming this year,” I noted, “but I always have to try.”

Anneliese and Alyssa are both excellent fly angers and follow direction well. This really helps as a guide. Alyssa had also caught both a 24- and 25-inch brookie on previous trips, so she knew the odds of topping those personal bests would be very difficult.

We’d fished for about 20 minutes and I was looking at the clock. “One more cast,” I said.

“Ahh. Can I have one more after this?” said Alyssa, who was already swinging her fly.

The words had barely come out of her mouth when I saw the strike. Alyssa leaned back and yelled “Fish!”

It was obviously a big trout, and it was rolling at the lip of heavy current. I had the 36-volt trolling motor on spot lock, but I started to move it slowly upstream—the fish going downstream in shallow rapids was a recipe for disaster.

“This fish is getting very pully, Gord,” said Alyssa, leaning on her fly rod.

“Hang on to it,” I urged, knowing that this could go badly.

Finally, the boat was out of the main current and I grabbed the net. This trout looked very large on the surface, but it wasn’t until that brand-new net was scooped under the fish that I could see the size and feel the weight.

“That thing is a monster,” said Anneliese, with dead on accuracy. The brook trout filled the net and my live well. There were hugs, high fives, and some spontaneous emotion. After a few pictures, I produced the bump board and laid the mighty brookie on the ruler. The total length was 26 inches with a girth of 15 inches. I’ve been fishing brook trout a long time and I’ve never seen a trout this long. It was a majestic fish and profound moment. Alyssa, hands trembling, released the great fish back to the water, then sat back to soak the moment in.

There are some days in life you never forget. For the three anglers in that boat, it was one of those days.

BY JOE SHEAD

WHY GO: Whitefish Lake is chock full of walleyes. Plus, as part of the Timber-Frear Loop, this lake delivers a Boundary Waters-like setting without the need for a permit. And if you want, you can even use a motor to fish these lakes.

ACCESS: You’ll have to travel a lot of gravel roads to get to Whitefish Lake. From Schroeder, head up Highway 61 for 0.8 miles and turn left onto Temperance River Road. Proceed 5 miles and turn left onto 600 Road. After a mile, turn right onto Richey Lake Road. Travel 5.8 miles and turn left onto The Fourmile Grade. Go 2 miles and turn right onto Forest Service Road 348. Proceed 4.7 miles and pull into the parking lot on your right. You’ll have to carry your canoe, kayak, or other small boat a short distance to reach the lake. You won’t be able to launch any boat you can’t carry.

VITALS: Whitefish Lake spans 345 acres with a maximum depth of 49 feet. It’s got excellent water clarity, with 18 feet of visibility. It has a small three-place Forest Service campground at the boat launch and there are three more remote campsites along the shoreline. Plus, it’s part of a chain of lakes in the semi-primitive Timber-Frear Loop. It’s a 65rod portage to Elbow Lake or only 20 rods to South Wigwam. Some of the other lakes in the chain (as well as other nearby lakes just outside the chain) have small three- or four-site campgrounds at their boat launches as well, if the one on Whitefish is full, and they also have remote campsites on the water, away from the boat launch. The only restriction on motors is you’ll have to carry it down to the lake with you, so by default, most anglers paddle or use small motors. It’s a BWCAW-like setting—with motorized options.

WHITEFISH LAKE

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

WALLEYE: Whitefish has a ridiculous amount of walleyes in it. The 2018 DNR survey found an astonishing 25 walleyes per gill net—that’s a lot! That’s no anomaly. Every DNR survey turns up a lot of walleyes. There’s no stocking; the fish are maintained through natural reproduction. Although they grow a bit slower than the area average, there’s not a ton of fishing pressure on them, so they do well. There’s a nice healthy average size to the fish you’ll catch here. You can never rely on a meal of fish on a camping trip, but Whitefish is as close to a guarantee as you can get.

NORTHERN PIKE: Northern pike are heavily overshadowed by walleyes on this lake. They are found

in about average abundance for the area and grow to average size. Most fish you catch will be in the high teens or low 20s. On occasion, fish over 30 inches are caught, but they are the exception.

YELLOW PERCH: Yellow perch size and numbers have fluctuated over the years. The latest survey in 2018 was pretty dismal, with most fish running pretty small, although one whopper topped the 12-inch mark. But wind the clock back to 2010 and a fair amount of keepers showed up in the DNR survey, including fish over 11 inches. Nobody travels to Whitefish specifically to catch perch. But if you fish for walleyes with live bait, expect to catch a few perch. Who knows, you might luck out and catch a few keepers.

The massive tail of a 26-inch brook trout. | GORD ELLIS

NORTHERN SKY

SEPTEMBER 2025

By Deane Morrison MN STARWATCH

This September, the sun isn’t the only bright object dropping in the sky. Venus also follows a steady course downward.

Venus is now a bright beacon low in the eastern predawn sky. On the 1st, Venus, Jupiter, and the star Procyon, in Canis Minor, will form a triangle with Jupiter at the top. And Sirius, in Canis Major, will be lower and to the south. This is another good time to compare Venus, the brightest planet, with Sirius, the brightest star.

But Venus’s orbital motion will soon carry it behind the sun. Don’t miss its show on the 19th. On that morning, Venus, a thin waning moon, and the bright star Regulus, in Leo, the lion, appear in a tight group just above the horizon, as if waiting to greet the sun. In the evening sky, Saturn stands out among the relatively dim fall constellations. On the 21st, Earth glides between it and the sun, which brings us

almost as close as we ever get to Saturn. Look for it low in the southeast to east at nightfall, below the four stars framing the Great Square of Pegasus. The rings are only slightly tilted, so almost all its brightness is due to the planet itself.

September’s full moon rises the evening of Sunday, the 7th. It appears about half an hour before Saturn and leads the planet across the night sky.

The Summer Triangle of bright stars reaches its highest point—or three points—in the south this month. The Milky Way runs through the Triangle, adding a special beauty for viewers with or without binoculars.

Fall arrives with the equinox at 1:19 p.m. on the 22nd, the moment the sun crosses the equator heading south. It’s also the moment the Northern Hemisphere’s tilt changes from toward the sun to away from it.

Cast-Iron Cooking

Fresh & Timeless Comfort Food for Sharing

By Julia Rutland

Adventure Publications, 2025, $22.99

In Cast-Iron Cooking, Julia Rutland shares 130 recipes designed for the heavy-duty pans many home cooks swear by. The book walks through caring for cast iron and offers meals that are hearty and satisfying, from breads, appetizers, and stews to pizzas, tacos, and desserts. But it’s not just about food—it’s about tradition, too. This is a great addition to any cast-iron loving kitchen.

Breana Johnson

Unfinished Business

By Janet Kay

Self-Published, 2025, $15.95

After a painful divorce, 30-year-old Angela finds herself drawn to her grandmother’s long-unsolved disappearance—from six decades ago. From a remote cabin on Gunflint Lake to Isle Royale and Voyageurs National Park, secrets begin to unravel as Angela is haunted by her grandmother’s spirit. Unfinished Business is a page-turning, memorable read, perfect for those who enjoy their mysteries with a touch of paranormal.

Breana

Johnson

Mushrooms & Fungi for Kids

An Introduction to Mycology

Adventure Publications, 2025, Ariel Bonkoski

In Mushrooms & Fungi for Kids, Duluth author and mushroom expert Ariel Bonkoski introduces young readers to the fascinating world of fungi. With clear explanations, vibrant visuals, and a focus on shapes and structures, the book teaches the basics of mycology while encouraging appreciation for nature’s weirdest kingdom. Though not a foraging guide, it’s packed with knowledge. This is a fun and informative pick for curious kids and adults alike.

Breana Johnson

Following the Ancestor’s Steps

Asin-badakide-ziibi Amik

Baptism River Beaver

By Zhaawanoogiizhik / Sam Zimmerman

This past ziigwan (spring), an amik (beaver) was enjoying his life along the Asin-badakide-ziibi (Baptism River). I would often go down and visit the mouth of the ziibi (river) to see how the landscape was changing under his care. I learned that ma’iingan (wolves) stop along the ziibi (river) when they visit Tettegouche State Park. I added the ma’iingan (wolf) in the background far away from the amik (beaver). This piece is my final piece to be completed for the MNPAIR residency exhibition, now displayed in the Tettegouche State Park visitors center.

Follow my studio on Facebook and Instagram @CraneSuperior or if you have ideas for a North Shore painting, you can email me at: cranesuperiorstudio@gmail.com.

Strange Tales

The Quirky Mining Saga of Mabelle Duncan Mars

By Elle AndraWarner

Looking for a gold mine using a “spirit map?” Or how about “dream mining?” Well, it's all part of the strange, wild, northern saga of Mabelle Duncan Mars (18841963).

Scottish by heritage, Mabelle was born in Canada to James Duncan and Jane “Jennie” Bowes, and spent her childhood in the northern Ontario village of Burk’s Falls near North Bay. On January 21, 1913, she married Duluth’s Charles George Mars (1873-1958) in Minneapolis. Born in Sparta, Greece, he had moved to Duluth in 1898 and became a successful American businessman with restaurants in Duluth and Superior.

Mabelle’s strange adventures started on April 15, 1926, when a dream revealed to her where she should stake mining claims in northern Ontario’s Red Lake Gold Rush. So compelling was her dream that 42-yearold Mabelle—who knew nothing about prospecting—headed for Red Lake. She felt destined to find the “richest claim.”

Right from the beginning, she welcomed and received extensive media attention. The Toronto Star reported on May 22, 1926, “Aboard [the motorboat Triton] were 31 men and one woman. The woman, Red Lake’s first woman prospector, is Mrs. Mabelle D. Mars of Duluth. Clad in fours [knickerbockers] and a khaki overcoat, she carried an axe and mail [a piece of prospecting equipment] in her outfit.”

After the Triton’s 120-mile (193 km) journey on the Lac Seul water route from Hudson, Ontario (staging area for the Red Lake Gold Rush), to Pine Ridge (today’s Goldpines), Mabelle flew to Red Lake in a Curtiss HS-2L flying boat, piloted by the famous bush pilot Harold Farrington. The Curtiss—a biplane with a single engine—is recognized as Canada’s first bush plane used in pioneer bush flying activities, and the first airplane used in making a mining claim.

“Once I arrived at Red Lake, I built a canvas tent, with log walls up to a certain height, and a tent over them, with big bunk along one wall, where I spread my boughs… I had a door to the tent, and I think that the lock I placed on it was the only lock at Red Lake,” Mabelle told the Fort William Times Journal

She hired three men, rented equipment (canoes, Evinrude motor, tents, and tools), bought a supply of groceries, and set out into the wilderness to find her Spirit Mine. She found her “dream rock” formation on June 14, staked and recorded a total of nine mining claims on a small island near Post Narrows before returning to Duluth.

But to ensure her place in history was officially recorded, at some point she had an affidavit signed by the mining recorder, the local magistrate, and others acknowledging she was the first woman prospector in Red

on February 28, she hired Duluth artist, L. P. St. Germain to draw it, but it was no ordinary map. She called it “True Map of Ore Veins Séance Drawing Feb. 1928.” The “diagrammatic x-ray” details of her spirit map came from her dream—everything from the locations of the ore-bodies and drilling sites to the path of the gold veins. Her handwritten notes add further details: “Vein 5 comes from Northwest, circles around 7 claims, and returns to Northwest.”

Lake. The document is now with the Red Lake Heritage Centre.

The feisty Mabelle once said, “Adventure? Well, the whole thing was an adventure. But there are some experiences that stick in my mind… One was the time we were lost all night through failing to recognize a portage and I and my men shivered on a rock from 11 at night until 5 in the morning around an open campfire.”

Mabelle wanted a map of her claims and

In 1929, she returned to Red Lake and, using her spirit map, staked three more claims. Reports in the Toronto Mail and Empire paper on October 4, 1929, indicated the property was known as the Mars Basin Mine on Mars Island and was located 7 miles north of what became the Howey Gold Mine (1930-1941).

However, she never had the chance to develop her Spirit Mine. Her ailing husband’s health deteriorated (he was a diabetic, an amputee, and blind), and Mabelle left the gold fields to be his caregiver.

In her diary, she wrote, “My mining adventure was over.”

Eventually, against her wishes, the land reverted back to the Crown and the claims were re-staked by others. No gold was found, but according to Mabelle’s journal, that was because no one knew where to look.

Mabelle died in Duluth on February 2, 1963, after residing there for 45 years. After her death, Mabelle’s nieces donated her spirit map and journals to Ontario’s Red Lake Regional Heritage Centre.

Perhaps, however, the strange story of her “dream mining” is not over. Mabelle’s journal and spirit map are there for anyone who wishes to consult them. And who knows? Maybe Mabelle’s spirit map holds the secret to undiscovered goldfields. After all, one of the world’s richest gold deposits has been in the Red Lake area.

According to her notes, Mabelle didn’t consider following her spirit map a failure. Rather, one of her last notes was: “Failure is not defeat, it is only gaining experience.”

Mabelle flew to Red Lake on the Curtiss HS-2L flying boat, a biplane with a single engine commonly referred to as Canada's first bush plane. | PUBLIC DOMAIN

In 1926, 42-year-old Mabelle Duncan Mars gained fame as being one of the first female prospectors during the Red Lake Gold Rush in Ontario. | RED LAKE REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE

Fun fact: A Canadian postage stamp was issued in 1979 featuring the Curtiss HS-2L. | PUBLIC DOMAIN

3X Skye Ridge

Charming bunkhouse with a cozy sleeping loft, nestled on 6.9 acres with the Little Devil Track River as the Northern boundary line. Currently powered by solar. Electric & Broadband available.

MLS 6120074 • $164,900

172 Boulder Point Rd

Charming 2BR/1BA cabin located on the Ski Hill Road, in Lutsen with stunning Lake Superior views! The property is zoned Resort Commercial/Residential, allowing for plenty of expansion options.

MLS 6119708 • $599,000

Escape to your own slice of paradise with this stunning 2BR/2BA log home, perfectly situated on 40 acres of natural beauty. This tranquil retreat offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.

MLS 6118753 • $599,000

15 Big Cedar Trail

Perched in the serene northwoods, this stunning mountain home offers sweeping views of Lake Superior, Lutsen Mountain Ski Hill, and the Superior National Golf Course. Designed to impress, the home’s three levels of window-filled living space embrace the natural beauty at every turn. The top level is tailor-made for hosting elegant dinners and festive celebrations, all centered around breathtaking views and connection to the outdoors. The second floor features two guest bedrooms with generous windows, while the master suite is a true retreat. The lower level is a private apartment or guest suite. Separate sauna/bunk house.

Custom 3BR/2BA log-sided home on 8+ wooded acres near Grand Marais. Vaulted ceilings, loft suite, 3-season porch, workshop, garage, walkout basement, and Cutface Creek frontage.

Exceptional 4BR/3BA home nestled along the scenic Gull Lake, with 467 ft of frontage and approximately 5 acres of land, complete with rock outcroppings, pine trees, stunning views, and plenty of privacy. Ideal for the buyer wanting to enjoy paddling from their dock into the BWCA. Attached heated garage, HUGE spacious heated garage, and workshop, along with two charming rustic sleeping cabins.

6120188

Charming 2BR/1BA cabin on Clearwater Lake with 3+ acres & 207 ft of lakeshore! Great mid-trail location with access to many restaurants and easy access to the BWCA.

mls 6120799 • $389,900

all about the lake! This two-story, 4BR3BA retreat is situated on the desirable north shore of Devil Track Lake. Providing a blend of Northwoods charm and modern comfort, this home has it all!

6117794 • $769,500

of West Pope lake shoreline and 5 acres of

543’ of truly amazing easy access Sea Gull Lake shoreline! This 8.5-acre lot is home to a newer modern open design 2BR1BA cabin sitting on a rocky knoll, affording amazing views.

Rare Lake Superior gem between Grand Marais and Lutsen. This 4BR/2BA home features south-facing shoreline, stunning views, a private balcony, garage, and direct access to scenic ledgerock.

Rare Grand Marais investment: three rental homes on 1.3+ acres with expansion potential. Zoned Commercial Industrial—ideal for residential, vacation rentals, or commercial use.

MLS 6120592 • $639,900

78 Troll’s Trail

Scenic 6-acre lot with impressive Lake Superior views, surveyed with septic sites, broadband and electric coming, easy access to Grand Marais—ready to build!

MLS 6120523 • $249,900

305 Irish Creek Rd

Private 80-acre Northwoods retreat in Hovland, MN with creek, mature forest, utilities at roadside, year-round access, and endless outdoor potential near Lake Superior.

MLS 6120506 • $149,900

Affordable Lake Superior lot with a beautiful view! Over 300’ of shared lakeshore and over 7A of shared land!

MLS 6119033 • $84,900

1XX

W 13th Ave

Have you got a desire to build? Nicely wooded Grand Marais city limits surveyed lot. Road and utilities not brought in yet.

MLS 6118743 • $59,900

15XX Greenwood Rd

Private 2.3-acre lot on Greenwood Lake with 585’ shoreline, creek frontage, trail system, and nearby BWCA access. Driveway in place; power and broadband coming.

MLS 6120286 • $469,900

14XX Tom Lake Rd

Rare 40-acre Northwoods retreat near BWCAW, surrounded by public land—private, remote, and wild.

MLS 6120809 • $39,900

Serene Tom Lake lot with over 150’ of easily accessible shoreline, year-round access and completed driveway.

MLS 6120208 • $159,900

Red Pine Realty

Locally owned and operated since 1996 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN | 218-387-9599 VISIT OUR OFFICE TO SPEAK WITH A REALTOR. HOURS: M-F 9AM-5PM, SAT 10AM-4PM

REALTORS®: Sue Nichols, Broker • Jake Patten, Assoc. Broker • Jess Smith • Melissa Gregg • Mike Raymond Rebecca McAllister • Casey O’Brien • Alice McFarlane, Admin.

NEW! LAKE SUPERIOR HOME & GUESTHOUSE

Lake Superior paradise on 1.5 acre property that balances privacy with convenience. Thoughtfully designed home offers one-level living with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Primary bedroom features a patio door out to the deck and wall of windows overlooking the lake. Charming seasonal guesthouse with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Two stall garage provides convenient storage.

MLS#6120875 $1,150,000

TOM LAKE LOT

Buildable lot nicely prepped for your future plans. Driveway, parking area and a private building site all ready to go. Arrowhead electric and fiber optic are available at the roadside. From the building site there is a gentle slope to the waters edge that leads to a small bay with southern exposure. Sellers are removing the decks. The dock is negotiable.

MLS#6119721 $150,000

HAND-HEWN LOG HOME ON MAYHEW LAKE

A special home treasured by 3 generations, on 400ft of Mayhew Lake shoreline. On the edge of the BWCA, with access to the Border Route Trail and Topper Lake. This hand-hewn log retreat was built by Emerson Morris and designed with flexibility to entertain, accommodate overnight guests or provide places to relax with views of the lake.

MLS# 6120098 $1,250,000

NEW! HOVLAND LOG CABIN

Escape to your own private sanctuary with this 1 bedroom log cabin on 22 acres, featuring a wood stove that keeps things toasty for year-round adventures. Property includes a freshwater spring, a creek and old growth aspen trees. Power and broadband at end of the driveway. Cabin operates without electric or water hookups, but groundwork has been laid for modern conveniences.

MLS#6120776 $189,000

GULL LAKE LOG HOME

Tucked away in a serene setting, this 3 bed, 3 bath log home offers a peaceful escape. The centerpiece of the home is a spacious lofted great room with stunning views, high wood-beamed ceilings, natural light, and a cozy fireplace. Enjoy 224ft of water frontage and direct access into the B.W.C.A. Apartment above the garage offers additional space for visitors.

MLS#6119879 $825,000

NEW! LAKE SUPERIOR LOT

Imagine waking each morning to the sound of Lake Superior waves rolling onto your rugged shoreline, with 224ft of boulder beach and ledge rock. Set on 4.92 acres in a quiet neighborhood, property is ready for your vision. Gravel driveway leads to a partial build pad. Electricity in place with standard 30-amp & 50-amp service. Septic system installed. Internet available nearby.

MLS#6121329 $450,000

INLAND LAKE PROPERTIES

TOM LAKE CABIN

About as close as you can get to the lake without getting your feet wet! The cabin has been completely rebuilt in the last few years. It's all been done. You get to come and relax! The home is insulated and heated for winter use. Tom Lake has many fans, who enjoy all four seasons in this special area.

MLS#6120138

$349,900

LOG HOMEPORTAGE LAKE

Pristine 10 acres, 1700+ feet of Portage Lake shore, unique Mid-Gunflint Trail location. Surrounded by Superior National Forest and BWCA.

Beautiful full-log home, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, porch, 2-car garage and gardens. Peninsula, privacy and views. Pristine location on quiet wilderness lake.

MLS#6118688

$649,000

LOON LAKE HOME

A magnificent home nestled on land full of towering trees, trickling streams, a peaceful shoreline and groomed trails. There is a feel here that you are at a comfortable lodge in a state park. This home has all the comforts: in-floor heat, energy efficient windows, three fire places, high end appliances and mechanicals.

MLS#6119716 $1,200,000

SECLUDED GREENWOOD LAKE LOT

Greenwood Lake lot tucked into a quiet southern bay. Electric and broadband are scheduled to be installed this summer. There are 2 flat areas the seller cleared a few years ago. A day of brush clearing and you will have a camping area ready to go while you make plans to build.

MLS#6119255 $250,000

SEA GULL LAKE SERENITY

Charming Cape Cod-inspired lake home, outstanding views of the lake and surrounding BWCAW wilderness. Rock outcroppings and pines on 252 ft of accessible shoreline and 3.5 acres. Two bedroom, 2 level home shows exceptional quality. Expansive windows and screen porch, plus upper-level deck.

MLS#6120462 $629,000

HOMES AND CABINS

NORTHWOODS RETREAT HOME

Come through a stand of towering red pines and catch your first glimpse of Lake Superior. Enjoy a living area and outdoor spaces with Lake Superior views, main floor master suite, office and laundry, with 2 bedrooms and a bath upstairs. Unfinished walkout lower level is plumbed and wired.

MLS#6120301 $725,000

OFF-GRID HOVLAND CABIN

This property is an awesome retreat for all kinds of groups. Turn-key, 5 acre off-grid property, has been set up by the sellers to function conveniently and comfortably, and is a great base camp for all seasons of sports and activities. Sellers are motivated.

MLS#6120291 $249,000

LARGE HOME - SILVER BAY

Five bed, 2 bath home with plenty of room and comfortable spaces. Hardwood floors, fireplace, updated appliances and new mechanical systems. The large lower level has space for projects or rec-room. Large yard and extra garage.

MLS#6115564 $274,900

COZY LOG CABIN ON 83 ACRES

Come see this one bedroom, one bathroom, kit log cabin perched atop 83 acres, bordered by MN State land. Interior is accented by beautiful diamond willow railings and custom ironwork. Propane lights, refrigerator and cooking range reduce utility expenses

MLS#6119194

$289,000 FEATURED LISTING

HOVLAND HOME ON 20 ACRES

Peace, privacy and adventure! Located on a quiet road, this beautiful and unique 2 bath, 3 bedroom home has an attached 4-stall garage. Garage features 14' doors and a workshop area with plenty of storage. Home sits on 20 acres of serene forestland. Home was designed with both comfort and resilience in mind, featuring high-efficiency appliances and a wood stove.

MLS#6119779 $349,000

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

SPECTACULAR LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS

Impressive views of Lake Superior from 40 acres situated 300 feet above the lake. Contact us regarding new zoning allowance for a variety of housing options. Some infrastructure from a home that was removed: garage, sauna, driveway, building pad and electric. Visitors required to be accompanied by licensed real estate agent.

MLS#6120561 $600,000

ONE LEVEL LIVING

Updated affordable home in an ideal location. One level living. Move right in and enjoy the classy kitchen, relaxing living room with a cozy wood stove, lots of windows throughout, beautiful tile work, and a full basement. Nestled on a private yard near many beloved North Shore sites.

MLS#6120677

$259,000

OFF GRID A-FRAME CABIN

Peaceful getaway on almost 9 acres of heavily wooded forest adjoining federal land. A-frame cabin powered by the sun and everything you need to step away from it all, with 3 murphy beds to help utilize the smaller space. Power and broadband are at the bottom of the driveway.

MLS#6119488

$149,000

UNIQUE VACATION RENTAL

The “Little Lost Containers” has been crafted with skill to create a unique vacation rental. Situated on a ridge above Lake Superior, it captures magnificent views. It is all about the view with each room, 3 levels of decks, and the fire circle providing a place to soak in the beauty. Living room includes custommade furniture that converts to a 2nd bed and the efficient kitchen provides everything for a relaxing stay.

MLS#6118409 $279,000

FEATURED

FEATURED LISTING

GRAND MARAIS HOME

Carefree living in the heart of Grand Marais. Home has been totally updated in recent years. The only thing to decide is which of the beautiful spaces to relax in! A perfect home for entertaining and relaxing inside or in the beautifully landscaped yard. Lots of storage in the lower level and attached garage. Walk anywhere in Grand Marais and come home to enjoy views of the lake.

MLS#6120399 $524,900

LUTSEN 2-STORY HOME

Five bedroom home on 4 acres. Step onto the covered porch and enter the living room with a gas stove. Main bedroom has a dressing room and full bathroom. Large kitchen with walk-in pantry, and easy conversation space with the dining room. Downstairs has a workshop, laundry and a bedroom. Ample storage with 2 garages and a barn!

MLS#6120666 $555,000

LAND/BUILDING SITES

HOME ON CLEARWATER LAKE ROAD

12+ acre property just a few miles from the center of the Gunflint Trail with a gorgeous view of Aspen lake! Two bedroom, 1 bathroom, single-level home is suitable for year-round use, with a wood fireplace and 4-season porch. Detached garage with ample workbench space and storage. Deeded lake access with a floating dock.

MLS#6119382 $375,000

GRAND MARAIS HOME END OF THE ROAD PRIVACY

A 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in the heart of Grand Marais with a very private and wooded feel. Bonus room has natural light from windows on three sides and a gas fireplace. Add’l features: gas fireplace in the living room, geothermal in-floor heat, AC, maintenance free siding, fenced in back yard and adjoining wooded lot. Easy trail access connecting to Pincushion Mountain trails.

MLS#6119977 $575,00

SCANDANAVIAN STYLE CABIN

Small is beautiful! Scandanavian style log timber cabin artfully crafted for sustainability. There's so much to do in this area, you won't be inside much while you're here! Conveniently located half way between Grand Marais and Grand Portage. The cabin welcomes you back to a simpler time while including some modern comforts. Most furnishings can be included.

MLS#6120613 $239,000

CAMP ROAD, HOVLAND CRAMER ROAD, SCHROEDER

Enjoy this meticulously maintained contemporary handcrafted log home on 10 private acres just northeast of Grand Marais and near Judge Magney State Park.

A charming two bedroom one bath cottage located on the hillside of the Cramer Rd overlooking Taconite Harbor and Bear and Gull island.

Rare opportunity to own a private parcel near Seagull Lake on the historic Gunflint Trail—offering 3.5 wooded acres and 400+ feet of shoreline on scenic Onagon Lake.

NEW! RELAX TO THE SOUNDS OF CROSS RIVER IN THIS SCHROEDER HOME! Enjoy 150ft of Cross River frontage and a Well maintained home with a 2 car attached garage! Large kitchen with tons of cabinets and counter area. Natural light flows through the combined Living Room/Dining room, with a gas fireplace to take the chill off. Walk to the Schroeder bakery and enjoy the views of the Cross River! The Superior Hiking Trail is just a few steps away. Visit today and start enjoying the Good Life on the North Shore! MLS# 6121113 $299,900

BOREAL-TIME ON GITCHI GUMEE!

MLS#6120631 $579,000

19+ ACRES AND DELIGHTFUL CABIN JUST OUTSIDE FINLAND!

This zero-carbon footprint two-bedroom cabin, complete with fiber optic, would make a peaceful full-time home or getaway just for you! The solar power system is supported by a propane generator for the occasionally cloudy winters. The vaulted ceilings, wood-burning fireplace, and delightful 3-season porch bring home the ambiance of the woods. The cabin includes two bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, a charming great room, a full bathroom downstairs and a half-bath in the loft. The property includes 565 feet of Baptism River shoreline, a detached garage, and a shed. Snowmobile and ATV trails are nearby, as are several state parks. Come and discover your Northwoods adventure! MLS#6118387 $389,000

Nestled inland from Lutsen in an expanse of pure Northwoods is Clara Lake, and on it a classic 1 bedroom cabin resides in the middle of 400’ of pristine shoreline. From the 3 season porch which is perfect for cribbage games to the living room with lake views and a woodstove to take away the spring and fall chills, you will feel the stress melt away every time you visit. Summers will be enjoyed on the deck or in the water itself, while listening to the sounds of the loons. Lutsen Mts and Superior National Golf Course about 20 minutes away, Brule Lake and the BWCA 20 minutes the other way - deeper North. Current owners have it all dialed in, just show up, unpack, and relax. Or, if you like to putter there’s always wood to split and whatever else you dream up: stones to arrange just so, lures to sort, build a shed if you like. Make it your place!

MLS#6120362 $375,000

baths. An open, airy kitchen overlooking the living room which has a comfy gas fireplace and access to the deck with lake views. 2000+ square feet here folks, bring the whole crew! Even a spacious sauna downstairs to ease those sore muscles after a day at Lutsen Mountains! This home is a place to hole up, get back to basics: family, dreaming, thinking, food, Love. Lutsen Lake Love!

MLS#6120498 $775,000 PRICE REDUCED!

CLARA LAKE RETREAT IN LUTSEN!

NEW! CARIBOU LAKE LOOKOUT IN LUTSEN!

This Sweet Log Cabin has everything needed to relax on the North Shore. From the woodstove adding ambiance to the kitchen and living room, to the 4 season porch overlooking Caribou Lake, this cabin has all the extras! The two bedrooms gives everyone their own place to unwind after a long day. This property offers close access to all your favorite outdoor activities no matter the season! Many Inland lakes are close by and only 15 minutes to Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort. This is a Must see gem in the midst of Lutsen! Property is currently operated as a short-term rental, sold turn-key and fully furnished!

MLS# 6121010 $479,000

COZY GETAWAY IN TOFTE! Whether you are looking for a fulltime home or just a vacation getaway, this 2 bedroom home checks all the boxes! Located just off the Sawbill Trail, quality, beauty and efficiency meet affordability in this “just the right size” home. The comfortable, fresh, open floor plan provides the perfect living space. Enjoy sitting on the deck with your morning coffee listening to the birds or cook to your hearts content in the spacious Kitchen. Outside are thousands of acres of public forest/rec land nearby. In the heart of the North Shore: skiing, fishing, hiking, golfing, snowmobiling, Boundary Waters are all within minutes, yet far enough away to enjoy the quiet. Visit today and start making your Up North dream a reality! MLS#TBD $279,000

NEW! TIMBERFRAME HOME NESTLED IN THE MAPLES! Welcome to your dream Northwoods Getaway in Schroeder, located on 17 acres with a babbling creek and mature maples, gorgeous Fall colors! The handcrafted Timbers in this 3 bedroom home will amaze you. Spacious kitchen, gorgeous cabinetry. Enjoy harvesting your own land, apples, choke-cherries or raspberries abound. Enjoy winter evenings with the woodstove crackling in the background! Nice southern exposure for lots of natural light throughout the home, this is a must see TimberFrame!! Enjoy the many inland lake the Superior Hiking Trail and State snowmobile trails that are all close by. Wander the old logging roads during hunting season and enjoy your time outdoors! All that is missing is you!

MLS#6121299 $449,000

HOMESTEAD RANCH PROPERTY! Welcome to Lutsen- And a whole Lot of it! 52+ acres of woods, wildlife, a home, garages, and a cute timber frame that currently identifies as a sheshed, but could be whatever the next dreamer aspires to. Can’t find this much elbow room in Lutsen, or really anywhere in Cook County with the amenities of paved, public road, power and fiber. The home is 3 bedroom has it all! A spacious Kitchen with custom cabinets, an enclosed breezeway that attaches the two-car garage. Down below, in the dry basement, is a lot of unfinished space awaiting the next owner’s vision. Beautiful, mature yard. Including Jonvick Creek running through these peaceful woods - Take a look around at all the maples. Nice little pond out back makes the wild furry, four-legged and feathered neighbors happy. Abuts public land, so, for those with wanderlust, get ready for some tramping around and discovery! Visit Today!

MLS# 6120632

$999,000

CAMPN’, HUNTN’, FUN GETAWAY LAND, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE!

SCHROEDER AREA

11 PLUS ACRES JUST 8 MILES FROM THE CROSS RIVER IN SCHROEDER! You’ve driven by this nice parcel during a Fall leaf color tour on the Cramer Rd, a beautiful area for your getaway cabin! Year round County Rd access, electric and fiber at the road. Level build site, boreal forest for great wildlife viewing! Lots of recreational opportunities just minutes away including fishing, hiking and biking the old railroad grade, or toe dipping in Lake Superior! MLS#6118380 $79,000

PLENTY OF ROOM TO EXPLORE IN SCHROEDER! Just south of Sugarloaf Cove in Schroeder, and overlooking Lake Superior, are 40 acres of elbow room awaiting a new lover of the North Shore! Hard to find a large acreage parcel, easily accessible, and pitched just so to provide evocative, energizing views of the The Big Lake. Current owners have provided a good start: put the driveway in, cleared a building-site, set up the firepit, heck they even planted a few apple trees. Now it’s your turn to start creating YOUR DREAM! Begin with a little getaway place, put your own touches on the land. Or make it the homestead. Come have a look, stand in the middle of your own 40, deep and away from the cares and worries of modern life. MLS# 6119000 $349,000 PRICE REDUCED!

LUTSEN AREA

BOREAL FOREST IN LUTSEN WITH ACCESS TO TAIT LAKE! Gorgeous trees and high ground are just a couple features this land offers! Fiber and Electric at Road, this land is build ready. As part of the Tait Lake Assoc. enjoy folks that are environmentally aware and at peace with the Great Northwoods! Shared canoe launch is just a few minutes’ walk from the land for when you want to paddle around the lake, or enjoy the hiking trails meandering through the Tait Lake area. Perfect Retreat Spot to build your getaway cabin!

MLS#6120556 $55,000

ACREAGE IN LUTSEN! Rare opportunity to have 34 acres in Lutsen on the Caribou Trail! Plenty of space for you to explore and create your own getaway with wildlife as neighbors! Create a development or keep it all for yourself, why not? MLS#6120814 $300,000

ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PARCELS OF LAND IN THE LUTSEN

AREA! Located on the corner of the Caribou and South Caribou, this land is high ground and magnificent in the Fall with the mature maple forest. A Syruper’s DREAM property, make this your own homestead or develop it utilizing the new County zoning ordinance for denser development surrounded by Green Space! Year round access via County roads, and electric and fiber at road. MLS#6120783 $699,000

40 ACRES A STONE’S THROW TO THE BRULE LAKE ENTRANCE ROAD IN LUTSEN! Sweet views of surrounding lakes from the highest point of this 40 in an excellent location along the Grade Rd. Year round access, and electric and fiber are along one side of the Grade Road. Great location for a Fishing Camp and eventual home or development! Minute’s to the Caribou Trail in Lutsen, or keep on going to the Ball Club Road to Devil Track Rd to Grand Marais! Mature forest, great spot. 40 acres too much? Seller’s will sell the East 20 for $169,000! MLS#6120782 $299,900

GRAND MARAIS AREA

SECLUSION ON 40 ACRES, JUST MINUTE’S TO GRAND MARAIS ABOVE COUNTY RD 7! Excellent location, this 40 acres has nice Lake Superior views, and awesome views of the Sawtooth Mountain Ridgeline above Cut Face Creek, just west of Grand Marais. Rough road in place, there’s an easement for access, you just need to improve the road to your future homestead! Flat land at top for barns, home, whatever you envision. Great sunlight, perfect Solar Off Grid property, or bring in fiber and power from the Bally Creek Rd! MLS#6120419 $400,000

40 ACRES SECLUDED IN THE NORTHWOODS OF GRAND MARAIS! Three sides of the land are surrounded by federal land, perfect for the ultimate getaway from EVERYTHING! While the property has no easement access, there are still plenty of things you do with it! Enjoy the mixed Boreal Forest with wildlife as your neighbors. Prospective buyers are encouraged to contact the US forest service regarding a possible special use permit for a path once they own the property. There is plenty of potential for this property, are you ready? MLS#6119938 $65,000

HOLY SMOKES! HAVE YOU SEEN THE PRICES OF GRAND MARAIS HOMES?! Buy this 2+ ac parcel and build your own home on well and septic! Excellent location for in town living with easy walking access to the Y, to the Harbor and to the hospital! Total feeling of seclusion in the City, very, very rare! Get out of the car and give this land a walk, it’s quite nice!! MLS#6114386 $89,000 PRICE REDUCED!

CATCHLIGHT CATCHLIGHT

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

I took this image of a male yellow-bellied sapsucker in late June when it was raising its young. Sapsuckers are still around, but as a migratory bird they leave the area in late September or early October and head for the warmer climates of southern U.S., Mexico, and Central America.— Paul Sundberg

Stocking Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana and all other brands available.

Isak Hansen Home and Hardware in Lutsen has been selling major appliances for over 50 years and has recently expanded to offer all brands of appliances. Whether for your new cabin or updating your existing home, we can deliver, install, and even recycle your old units. Stop in and we will be ready for you!