Minnesota is known for fantastic lakes, trails, forests, and more. Simply put, when you visit, you are in for a natural treat. One of the most iconic drives in the state is the Gunflint Trail in northern Minnesota. It’s one of the many attractions that drive people to visit the North Shore in Minnesota.
Explore the Gunflint Trail and other picture-perfect attractions when you stay at Poplar River Condos at Lutsen. We are located near the Gunflint Trail, but there are also many other activities to enjoy in the surrounding communities along the North Shore.
What Is The Gunflint Trail In Minnesota?
The Gunflint Trail is 57 miles 57-mile-long scenic byway connecting the shores of Lake Superior in Grand Marais, Minnesota, and ending near the US-Canadian border, in northern Minnesota. The trail passes through and by several natural sights, including ridgelines, woods, lakes, and outfitters, as well as the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, among other notable features.
Where Does The Gunflint Trail Start?
The Gunflint Trail starts in Grand Marais, Minnesota, on Highway 61.
Where Does The Gunflint Trail End?
The Gunflint Trail ends officially at Gull Lake, but it is best known as the gateway into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on Saganaga Lake. Near the end of the trail, consider visiting the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center. There, you will find a wealth of history regarding the area and the Gunflint Trail. It spans prehistoric times, Native American culture, the logging industry, and continues up to the present day.
What Are Some Of The Best Attractions Along The Gunflint Trail?
There are several excellent attractions located near Grand Marais, Minnesota, as well as others that are further up the trail. Here are some that are worth seeing for yourself.
- Take in the view on Pincushion Mountain.
- Take a day trip into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
- Stop for a hike at Magnetic Rock, a 3-mile out-and-back trail that lives up to its name.
- Stop mid-trail for a bite to eat at Hungry Jack , Trail Center , or Poplar Haus.
- Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing, but be careful. The Gunflint Trail is known for its moose sightings, but you may also see wolves, bears, deer, loons, foxes, and lynxes.
- If you’re here during the winter, enjoy the many cross-country ski trails found along the Trail, bundle up and visit the snowmobile trails, or explore the wilderness by dog sled.
- Enjoy the night sky up the Gunflint Trail. The BWCA is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary, one of only a few in the world. See the stars and the aurora borealis put on an evening show.
Visit One Of The Most Spectacular Minnesota Attractions
Leave your North Shore vacation knowing that you have experienced some or all of one of the best attractions in Minnesota: The Gunflint Trail. Rest your head following your epic adventure when you stay at Poplar River Condos at Lutsen. Explore Lutsen and the surrounding North Shore towns, the local attractions, activities, shops, and restaurants. Lots of them are dog-friendly, too!
#StayLutsen and experience four seasons of adventure at Poplar River Condos at Lutsen. Discover more about the North Shore by emailing reservations@staycvr.com, calling 888-524-5120, or checking availability online.