ISLE ROYALE — PHOTO CONTEST — FOOD TRUCKS — ART FESTIVALS — TROPHY TRASH
FREE!
FOR THE
LOVE
JUL 2021
OF THE
NORTH
VOLUME 18 ISSUE 07
TWO HARBORS SILVER BAY TOFTE LUTSEN GRAND MARAIS GUNFLINT TRAIL GRAND PORTAGE THUNDER BAY NIPIGON
OUTDOORS EVENTS ARTS REVIEWS HEALTH DINING CALENDAR CATCHLIGHT
Historic hwy. 61
POST OFFICE BOX HOLDER LOCAL HWY. CONTRACT ROUTE Grand Marais, MN 55604 Permit #45
Includes
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
1
page 48
“The finest Realtor I’ve ever worked with in my life.” -Tim K.
Cliffside Retreat Tucked Into Private Pebble Beach!
TOFTE, MN OFFERED AT
$1,750,000
DETAILS
3 BD/4 BTH
2,824 SF
1.47 ACRES
590 FT SHORELINE
NE Minnesota - Lake Superior - Lake Vermilion - Ely - Giants Ridge
www.JanischRealty.com
This is Ryan. Ryan heard about Superior Fuel’s new exclusive Shield Program. Ryan never has to call to order propane and knows exactly what he’s going to pay to heat his home.
This is Bob. Bob doesn’t take advantage of available plans and technology. Bob buys his propane at Market Rate prices and calls in each time he needs a delivery.
Stable Monthly Payments
Larger Bills During The Winter Months
3-Year Price Protection
Pays More When He Needs it The Most
Tank Monitoring Software with Mobile App
Has To Monitor His Own Tank Pay’s Additional Run-Out Fees
$250 No Run-Out Guarantee 1,000-Gallon Tank
Smaller Tank More Deliveries = More Fees
- $186/Month & Burned 1,200 Gallons
- $450 For His Fill in May of 300 Gallons At $1.499/Gallon
- Ryan Called & Set Up 3-Year Price Protection
- $540 For His Fill in November of 300 Gallons At $1.799/Gallon
- He Spent a Total of $2,232 in the Last Heating Season
- $930 For His Fill in January of 300 Gallons At $3.099/Gallon - $690 For His Fill in March of 300 Gallons At $2.299/Gallon - He Spent a Total of $2,610 in the Last Heating Season
218-722-2050 2
JULY 2021
www.superiorfuelcompany.com
NORTHERN WILDS
info@superiorfuelcompany.com
Edging toward normalcy Last summer, when folks asked how Northern Wilds was doing in the midst of the pandemic shutdowns, we could say we were fine, because our advertisers continued to support us. But we also pointed out that we had less advertising for three reasons: no events, no music and no Canada due to covid closures. Fortunately, we were able to continue distributing in Canada, so our many readers there have enjoyed the magazine. We suspect many readers have appreciated our “blur the border” coverage of Minnesota and Ontario, because it allows them to make armchair visits to the “other side” even though the border remains closed.
Do you have a question for one of our writers? Or an interesting photo, recipe, or story you’d like to share with Northern Wilds? Please send it to storyideas@northernwilds.com.
When will the border reopen? It’s hard to say, because government information of the subject is frustratingly lacking in detail. The best guess we hear from folks is “probably September.” For many tourism operations in Ontario that rely on American clientele, that means they’ll miss two full summers of business. South of the border, we are moving toward normalcy. In this issue we have two pages of event blurbs and our Calendar of Events fills a full page. Prior to the pandemic, a summer issue contained
at least six pages of event blurbs and we’d have trouble cramming the Calendar of Events on a two-page spread. Nevertheless, the return of many summer events is a strong indication that we are beginning to emerge from the shadow of the pandemic. We’ll take what we can get. We greatly appreciate the many advertisers who have stuck with us through the pandemic, including our friends in the real estate community. Without the support of our advertisers, we can’t create this magazine for you. South of the border, we’re prepared for a crazy-busy summer, which many of our advertisers will face with less than full staffing. Please cut them and their staff a break when you stop in to do business. They’re doing the best they can. North of the border, some of our advertisers are coping with covid restrictions and the absence of American tourists. If you are reading this in Ontario, please do what you can to give them business. Soon enough, the Northern Wilds will return to normal. Then we will be whole again.—Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt
! s e g r Jud
u O t e me
A full time Grand Portage/Cook County resident for the past 49 years, Rick Novitsky is now retired after a rewarding career with the Tribal DNR (25 years) and as a park ranger with the MNDNR (15 years). He loves spending time with his four grandkids and his hobbies include hiking, fishing and photography.
WWW.NORTHERNWILDS.COM
Enter by Sept. 30
Enter photos and win prizes! Categories include Landscape, Wildlife, People and Pets, and Macro. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos per category. This year’s photo contest winners will be selected by our judges: James Smedley, David Johnson and Rick Novitsky. Winners will be announced in the January 2022 issue of Northern Wilds.
Submit entries and find contest rules at: northernwilds.com/contests/photography-contest
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 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.
David R. Johnson is a photographer from Grand Marais. A fourth-generation resident of the area, he grew up exploring 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.
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
3
Get EGO cordless outdoor power equipment exclusively at Cook County Home Center
#1 Rated BATTERY PLATFORM
outperforms and outpowers gas
COOK COUNTY
HOME CENTER
COOK COUNTY
Mon - Fri: 7 am - 5 pm • Sat: 8 am - 4 pm 1413 E. Hwy 61, Grand Marais • 218-387-1771 Toll-free 1-877-387-1771
Thousands of items available 4
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
DELIVERY
www.acehardware.com - Shop Online and Get Free Shipping to our store!
J U LY
2 0 2 1
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 7 w w w . n o r t h e r nw i l d s .c o m SERVING THE NORTH SHORE A ND T H E WI L D E R N E S S BE Y O N D PUBLISHERS Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt EDITORIAL Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com Breana Roy, Managing Editor breana@northernwilds.com
33
ADVERTISING Amber Pratt, Sales Manager ads@northernwilds.com Destry Winant, Sales Assistant destry@northernwilds.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com OFFICE Roseanne Cooley • billing@northernwilds.com CONTRIBUTORS Elle Andra-Warner, Kim Casey, Eric Chandler, Emily Derke, Gord Ellis, Peter Fergus-Moore, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Rae Poynter, Amy Schmidt, Joe Shead, Chuck Viren, Eric Weicht, Sam Zimmerman Copyright 2021 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc. Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $28 per year or $52 for 2 years U.S. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission from the publishers. Northern Wilds Media, Inc. P.O. Box 26, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (218) 387-9475 (phone/fax) PRINT & DESIGN print@northernwilds.com
Where can I find Northern Wilds Magazine? Go to: northernwilds.com/distribution
AD DEADLINE July 14
30
9 FEATURES 18 The Historic Highway 61 22 Isle Royale: Another World 42 Coaster Brook Trout
REAL ESTATE 48 Bluefin Bay, Odyssey 49 Coldwell Banker North Shore 53 Red Pine Realty 57 Backlund Realty 58 Lutsen Real Estate Group 60 Timber Wolff Realty
Take the North Shore home with you! From Duluth to Thunder Bay, Ont. and beyond, we cover the stories from the area featuring the people and places that make this place unique.
Cover
DEPARTMENTS 7 Along the Shore 16 Points North 24 Spotlight 29 Events 33 Dining 36 Health 39 Northern Trails
Highway 61 by Jan Swart
40 Fishing Hole 44 Northern Sky 45 Reviews 46 Following the Ancestor’s Steps 47 Strange Tales
PLEASE CHOOSE ONE: UNITED STATES
Name:_____________________________________________
Address:_____________________________________________ City:_____________________________________________ St./Prov:____________________ Zip/PC:___________________ Email:_____________________________________________ Tel:_____________________________________________
Subscribe Online at http://bit.ly/NWSub Single issues also available. We do not sell or share subscription information.
One Year 12 issues $28 USD Two Year 24 issues $52 USD CANADA
One Year 12 issues $36 USD Two Year 24 issues $68 USD Please cut this out and mail with your check to:
Northern Wilds Media, P.O. Box 26, Grand Marais, MN, 55604
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
5
Newly d e t a v o ren ed! d n a p x E &
Your One Stop Shop when you’re “Doing Up North.”
Stop in for
Groceries
4th of July Supplies!
Gifts
Except Fireworks
Now Hiring!
Competitve Wages
Seasonal Outdoor
Grilling
Fishing & Outdoors
Grab & Go!
Gas & Electric Charging Station
The North Shore’s true General Store
6
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
SUN - THURS 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., FRI & SAT 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Open Year-round 5323 W. Hwy 61, Lutsen, MN 55612 218-663-7478 • info@clearviewgeneralstore.com
Nancy Waver [RIGHT] with her son Guy Waver. Nancy is the daughter of the original resort owners Bud and Charlet Kratoska. | SUBMITTED at the resort, Bud also worked for over 20 years as a bus driver for the school district.
For the past several decades, the Waver family have owned and operated Trout Lake Resort, a place just out of reach of cell phone service and “where time slows down.” | SUBMITTED
Trout Lake Resort celebrates 75 years GRAND MARAIS— Nestled in the forests of the Gunflint Trail on the edge of the clear waters of Trout Lake sits Trout Lake Resort, a family-owned business that is celebrating its 75th anniversary of welcoming guests to this corner of the Northern Wilds. For the past several decades, the Waver family have owned and operated the resort, a place just out of reach of cell phone service and “where time slows down.” Through 75 years of changes and twists in the road, the Wavers have crafted a place where guests not only experience the restorative connection with nature, but also genuine and lasting connections with each other. The beginnings of Trout Lake Resort happened in 1946, when Chicago residents Bud and Charlet Kratoska left the city to move to Trout Lake with their two daughters. The Kratoskas purchased the property that is now Trout Lake Resort from Charlet’s sister and brother-in-law, and began to forge a life that was markedly different from the one they had known in Chicago. Upon their arrival, the property had just a few small cabins, a boat house, an ice house, and no running water, electricity, or telephone. The early years of life at Trout Lake were challenging, but with creativity and determination the family added buildings and amenities to the resort, making changes that included converting the boat house to a living space, using a 32-volt light plant to get electricity to the cabins, getting a telephone connection (initially by stringing wire through the trees to the nearest neighbor’s house five miles away) and eventually drilling a well and installing indoor plumbing.
When Bud passed away in 1986, Nancy moved back to Trout Lake to care for the resort, something that she has been doing ever since. While the resort has certainly changed since its earliest days, at its root it is still very much the same: a place where connections with nature and with others are the things that matter most, and the hustle of the modern world is left behind. The past several years have held their own challenges for Trout Lake Resort, most notably a fire in April 2009 that destroyed the lodge and office building. With their same characteristic determination, the family set to work building the new lodge, which was inspired by and holds the same authentic feel as the old lodge, with an open concept where guests are encouraged to come in and, as Nancy put it, “be a part of the family.” Adorning the interior of the new lodge building are various gifts from guests, an outpouring of support after the fire that showcases the special connection that people find when visiting Trout Lake. “One of the most rewarding things is that the people come back,” Nancy said. “They just love it here—something about it just draws you in.”
[L TO R] Craig Waver, Rusty Waver and Steve Waver show off their catches.
| SUBMITTED
One of Bud and Charlet Kratoska’s daughters is Nancy Waver, who recalls just how much hard work it took to run the resort in the early years. “My dad really worked hard for the community and for tourism, and anybody who knew him knew that,” says Nancy.
Bud was secretary for the Gunflint Trail Association, and both he and Charlet were heavily involved in the Tip of the Arrowhead, a tourism association formed to promote Cook County. (Bud visited all of the county’s businesses to organize the Cook County Civic Council, which later became the Tip of the Arrowhead.) In addition to all of his work
The Wavers said that they have families who have been coming up for years, including the children and grandchildren of some of their earliest guests. Some guests have even formed life-long friendships with other guests after meeting at the resort, and reconnect when they come back the same week each summer. From the beginning, Trout Lake Resort has truly been a family endeavor, and with younger generations of the family growing up, the hope is to continue with the same authentic, family-focused spirit that has been a part of the start. “Our whole family loves this place,” Nancy said.—Rae Poynter
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
7
NORTH HOUSE FOLK SCHOOL The Otter FM TRADITIONAL CRAFT ONLINE LEARN TRADITIONAL CRAFT ON Cook County’s new & ON THE HARBOR THE SHORE OF LAKE SUPERIOR commercial radio station NORTHHOUSE.ORG
NOW BOOKING SAILS ON HJØRDIS THROUGH JULY Dreaming Up the Ideal Retirement is Your Job. Helping You Get There is Ours. To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call my office today. Claire S Smith Financial Advisor
edwardjones.com Member SIPC
P.O. Box 1237 Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-387-3588
Claire S Smith
Financial Advisor
edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
NORTH SHORE
481 County Rd 60 Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-387-3588
IRT-1848F-A
Water Festival JULY 16-18 FRIDAY, JULY 16, 4-7:30 PM WILD MOUNTAIN THYME will be playing music in Harbor Park SATURDAY, JULY 17, 10 AM-4 PM SMALL MINI-TOURS (KAYAK AND SUP) IN THE HARBOR. Pre-registration will be available and is recommended.
10AM-4 PM WATERCRAFT/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT ON DISPLAY with reps available to answer questions. 1-3 PM HUDSON BAY BOUND BOOK SIGNING with author Natalie Warren at Stone Harbor 1-4 PM BROTHERLESS ARMS will be playing music in Harbor Park
For more info: www.stoneharborws.com/coursesevents/north-shore-water-festival
Visit us in-store or online today!
218.387.3136
stoneharborws.com 8
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
There’s a new radio station on 95.3; what was once KQ out of Duluth is now The Otter FM, broadcasting from Lutsen Mountains. | MATTHEW BUTLER LUTSEN—Those scrolling through radio stations on the North Shore recently may have noticed a new station on 95.3. What once rebroadcast KQ out of Duluth is now The Otter FM. Broadcasting from Lutsen Mountains, The Otter is the only commercial radio station in Cook County, and brings authentic, alternative music to listeners on the North Shore and beyond. Matthew Butler is the owner of Shire & Shore Communications, and purchased 95.3 FM from Midwest Communications. When Midwest Communications acquired several stations from Red Rock Radio in Duluth, one of which was 95.3, they ultimately decided against continuing to run a rural signal. Butler had a connection with someone from Midwest Communications, and after discussions he decided he wanted to buy the station and start a new, independent station. At the time of the purchase, there were no local commercial radio stations between Duluth and Thunder Bay. Butler, who currently resides in the Twin Cities, said he fell in love with the North Shore and Cook County’s pristine wilderness areas, and envisioned a local station that would bring something unique to this special area. Purchasing the station involved acquiring the license to operate, and in this particular case included getting a new transmitter, as the previous transmitter was aging. 95.3 spent time off the air during the pandemic while a new transmitter was put in place. Now that it is up and running it has reached listeners as far away as the Upper Peninsula. While a physical studio space is a possibility in the future, The Otter operates remotely using cloud technology. Apart from the practical aspects of starting an independent radio station, Butler also serves as The Otter’s program director and music director, roles that allow him to explore his passion for music. “The new format of The Otter is known in the media world as ‘Triple A,’ Adult Album Alternative,” Butler said. “We call it ‘progressive’ radio in a homage to the great album stations of the past that blended folk,
rock, soul and more. Every one of the 150 or so stations in the Triple A universe is different, but what unites us are the principles of community connectedness and music discovery—diving deep into the classics and playing the best new artists and songs.” With a focus on authenticity rather than popularity, the Triple A format allows listeners to discover new music outside of the mainstream, and allows music directors to exercise more creativity in choosing what to play. Butler said that as there is so much music to discover, they curate and bring forth the best for the listeners. “I’m having a lot of fun and I’m thrilled to be sharing music with people,” he said. Sharing new music also involves playing music from local artists. Minnesota has a rich legacy in music and radio, and listeners will hear at least one song by a Minnesota artist every hour on 95.3. Butler said that he listens to everything that gets sent by local artists, and that if submissions are radio edited and fit what they play, then they’ll play them. “While music changes and evolves, we’re always open to feedback and welcome people’s requests and ideas. We’re hoping to build a station that truly sounds like the North Shore and transports listeners to their happy place, no matter where they may be in the world,” he said. Above all, Butler said that they are thankful to be in an area that cares about local radio, and aim to be an integrated part of the community by partnering with local businesses to amplify their success and hiring local contractors and staff wherever possible. “For people who love live music, small business, and community—that’s what we’re all about,” Butler said. Listeners can tune into The Otter from anywhere in the world at theotter.fm. The website also has links to social media pages where those interested can stay tuned into any news and updates.—Rae Poynter
Volunteers needed in Cook, Lake counties for DNR loon survey ST. PAUL—The Minnesota DNR is seeking volunteers to help monitor the loon population in Cook and Lake counties in northeastern Minnesota. Volunteers are needed for one day during the July 2-12 monitoring period to count the number of adult and juvenile loons on pre-selected lakes. For the past 20 years, with the assistance of hundreds of volunteer observers, the DNR has gathered information about common loon numbers on more than 600 lakes distributed among six regions, or “index areas,” throughout the state. The annual loon count gives the DNR the ability to detect changes in the loon population and identify potential management needs and opportunities. Volunteers can choose one or more of the following lakes on which to count the number of adult and juvenile loons. They will then report these observations to the DNR for data analysis. Cook and Lake County lakes that need volunteers include: • Alger • Bonanza • Scarp The time commitment is one to four hours per lake. Surveys must be done between 5 a.m. and noon on one day
Volunteers are needed for one day during July 2-12 to help monitor the loon population. | BRENDA HADRICH during the monitoring period. Volunteers are asked to observe any applicable boating safety guidelines. Volunteers must commit to completing one or more assigned lakes and consider participating in the program for multiple years. Surveys can be conducted from shore on smaller lakes, or by boat or canoe on larger lakes. Volunteers use an online system to reserve and manage their lake assignments, view maps and information for their lakes, and print data collection sheets. The online system was funded by a donation from the Minneso-
ta United professional soccer team, whose mascot is a loon.
ESCAPE TO THE GUNFLINT TRAIL
To sign up as a survey volunteer and select a lake, go to the loon monitoring program page and click on “Volunteer Map.” People considering volunteering can contact northeast regional loon monitoring coordinator Bry Persing at (218) 735-3962 with any questions. The Minnesota Loon Monitoring Program is supported by donations to the nongame wildlife check-off on Minnesota’s tax forms.
Rockwood Join in. Shine on. On July 19–23, fun activities plus cool prizes and freebies await more than 11,000 Shining Examples at each of our seven branch locations. More at: northshorefcu.org/member-appreciation
Lodge & Outfitters
www.rockwoodbwca.com 218.388.2242 NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
9
Gunflint Pines Cabins & Camping Boat /Canoe/Kayak/ Fishing Pole Rentals Gift Shop & Grocery Pizza & Ice Cream Open to the Public 218.388.4454 www.gunflintpines.com 217 South Gunflint Lake Grand Marais, MN 55604
The Son’s Rays celebrates 50th anniversary GRAND MARAIS—The Son’s Rays choir will be returning to the North Shore this summer on Sunday, August 8, to celebrate their 50th Anniversary with a reunion concert at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Marais. Son’s Rays is a women’s singing group based out of Cook County that first came together in the early Seventies as a way for young women to connect with one another and “celebrate God’s love.” While the group officially ran for 15 years, many of its members have stayed connected over the decades and to this day continue to perform as a choir. “Our last reunion concert back in 2016 had 45 women participate in it,” says Sandy Skrien who has been involved with the group since its inception.
Have you been to the Finland Farmers Market? Summer 2021, under the Pavilion at the Clair Nelson Center, 6866 Cramer Road, Finland, MN
Every Thursday evening from 5-6:30 pm through October 7th!
Vendors: 1st week is free! Fee: $5/week or $50/season More info or to register call
218-353-0300
or check out our website at www.finlandfarmersmarket.com
Skrien sang with Son’s Rays until graduating high school in 1976, but stayed involved as a chaperone during a number of the choir’s cross-country trips in the early 1980s. Then, in the mid-1980s, Skrien travelled with a number of the woman in the group to Trinidad & Tobago to “sing in rural areas while providing bible instruction and hosting a music camp.” “I’m not sure of the exact number of girls (now women) that were involved with the choir,” says Skrien, “but it has to be well over a couple hundred. Many of them still live in Cook County, but there are quite a few spread out across the U.S. with a few even overseas.” The Son’s Rays choir was started by Dode Stoskopf in 1971 shortly after her husband Bob became the pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran church in Grand Marais. Upon moving to the North Shore with her husband, Stoskopf immediately fell in love with the “unbelievable beauty” of the area and the community and felt a need to give back in a meaningful way to a place that had already given her so much.
We also want to offer community learning experiences related to food at the market, so it’s time to get creative. Want to be involved? Have an idea? Contact us! 218-353-0300 or email Market Coordinator katee@friendsoffinland.org
“Right away,” says Stoskopf, “I realized I was at a place I loved and felt the need to make a contribution.”
We are able to accept credit cards, EBT and SNAP
Stoskopf—who majored in English and Sociology with an education application—
“So,” continues Stoskopf, “the question became—where could I as a woman of faith make a difference?”
The Son’s Rays in Hawaii, 1982. This all-women choir will return to Grand Marais on August 8 to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a concert at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. | SUBMITTED always loved working with teenagers, and it wasn’t long before she was struck with the idea of what would eventually become Son’s Rays. Son’s Rays would meet every Wednesday night with “almost no exception” according to Stoskopf, and it quickly became a “safe haven for prayers and concerns, for tears and laughter” in addition to serving as an opportunity for girls to come together and create music. Despite its Christian roots, Stoskopf made sure that membership into the woman’s choir was open to anyone and everyone, regardless of religious denomination or anything of the like. “I wanted Son’s Rays to be totally open to all,” recalls Stoskopf, “with no thought of talent, ethnicity, family connection or church affiliation.” “At some point during each practice and concert we always have a prayer together,” continues Stoskopf. “We respect each other, we love each other, and we sing praise to a God we know who loves us for who we are and what we feel and express in our songs.”
According to Stoskopf, it was (and continues to be) community involvement and the deep bonds shared between its members that has been largely responsible for Son’s Rays sustained success over the past 50 years. “Families and community members have been essential to our daily existence,” says Stoskopf, “and over the years we have included many of the talents and stories from our community into our concerts.” “For example,” continues Stoskopf, “in 2016 parent Alice Powell displayed her artwork at one of our concerts, and then in another year we were fortunate to have Gene Glader share his story and experience with faith at one of our shows.” Son’s Rays has recorded a total of four albums, and will be making these available for purchase at their concert on August 8. For more information on the Son’s Rays and their upcoming reunion concert, check out their Facebook page by searching “Son’s Rays.”—Eric Weicht
North Shore Community Radio
with a 23-year legacy of community voices & lakeside reporting
90.7 FM North Shore
10
JULY 2021
90.1 FM
Grand Portage
NORTHERN WILDS
89.1 FM Gunflint Trail
Listen to live radio:
wtip.org
Betsy Bowen Studio & Gallery 301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 218-387-1992
Original woodcuts, books, cards, local pottery and more. Two blocks uphill from Buck’s. Open 11-5 daily.
Welcome to Grand Marais
woodcut.com
Lake Superior Trading Post
THE BIG DIG project
• Gifts • Clothing • Toys • Camping Supplies • Maps • Books • Footwear • Jewelry • Hiking Pole Rental
Downtown Grand Marais Construction Project Mid-May through Early October The Big Dig involves removing contaminated soil under Highway 61 in downtown Grand Marais, during which the highway will be totally reconstructed. When complete, the project will add walking and biking paths, art installations, landscaping, trees and more.
A Grand Marais tradition since 1971 Open Year Round 7 Days a Week
www.LSTP.com • (218) 387-2020 10 S. 1ST AVE W., GRAND MARAIS, MN
For more information visit: COOKCOUNTYCHAMBER.ORG/PROJECT_61
BOOK STORE • DAILY SAILING WEEKLY DEMOS & MINI-COURSES 218-387-9762 • 500 W HWY 61
NORTHHOUSE.ORG
COOK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ays D t s e The B at Buck’s B eg i n
e t i r o v a F ’s Shore! e n o y r e v E e on the Stor
Serving anglers in Grand Marais since 1946
218-387-2233 • Grand Marais
JoynesBenFranklin
Gas Maps Sporting Goods Bait Pet Supplies Gardening Housewares Paint & more
www.buckshardware.net · BIG CITY PRICES ... SMALL TOWN SERVICE 218-387-2280 · Open 7 Days A Week • Downtown Grand Marais
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
11
Birchbark Books & Gifts Buy one book, get one 1/2 price (higher value)
(lesser value)
—with this coupon—
The Largest Bookstore on the Shore
Grand Marais Businesses are ready and open to serve you!
New & Used Books Clothing Gifts Toys Jewelry
218-387-2315 11 1st Ave W, Grand Marais
· Gas · Groceries · Fishing · Supplies
5¢ OFF
GAS
(with coupon, limit 20 gallons)
Grand Marais Marathon 104 East Hwy 61 - (218) 387-2766
SCAN FOR DINING
SCAN FOR RETAIL COOK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
10% off art supplies with this ad 12
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Hwy 61 & Main Street, On the Harbor • 218.387.9400
Grand Marais
120 W Hwy 61
Any Two Blizzards $ 50
8
PARKING
Please try to park on the residential streets north of Highway 61. We are a pedestrian friendly town.
For more information visit: COOKCOUNTYCHAMBER.ORG/ PROJECT_61
(sm or med)
Off regularly priced item of equal or lesser value. Excludes $5 Lunch, $6 Lunch, DQ Cakes, and Take Home Boxes of Novelties. Not valid with any other coupons or specials. Limit 1 coupon, 1 per customer. Limit 1 per coupon. Void if copied. DQ logo property of AM.DQCorp Minneapolis, MN, 2011. Expires 12/31/2021. Grand Marais, MN and Two Harbors, MN locations only.
Stop in for a treat! 11 S. Broadway Downtown Grand Marais 218-387-2081
KE
VIEW DIN ING
LA
Buy 1 POUND of Fudge get a FREE 1/4 pound Present this coupon and get an ADDITIONAL 1/4 POUND FREE of Chocolate Explosion
Grand Marais
D
LA
KE
ON EV
IL TRACK
Open 7 days ‘til 9pm Breakfast Online & App ordering Order ahead NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
13
Chippewa Park delays centennial celebration THUNDER BAY—Thunder Bay’s Chippewa Park is officially 100 years old on July 15. The Friends of Chippewa Park in Thunder Bay had hoped to host a five-day in-person bash on that date, but the current pandemic stood squarely in the way. “It would be irresponsible to hold an outdoor festival that could attract as many as 10,000 people when so many may still be susceptible to catching COVID-19. A major focus of the park and the festival are families and it is doubtful that children will be fully vaccinated in time. We had no choice but to postpone for a year.” These words from Friends of Chippewa Park president Lorraine Lortie came on the heels of the announcement that the proposed 5-day Chippewa Park Family Festival was being postponed until at least the summer of 2022. The Family Festival was to have marked the centenary of the popular municipal park situated adjacent to Fort William First Nations land on the shore of Lake Superior. The festival’s postponement, regretful as it is, reflects the difficulties that have beset not only Chippewa Park, but Thunder Bay as a whole during the COVID-19 experience. The Park’s many facilities, including its storied 1934-vintage merry-go-round, will be silent. A particular absence in light of the closed international border, is that of thousands of American tourists who have visited the Park over its many-year history. “It doesn’t make sense to hold a festival when the full features of Chippewa are not on display and available for celebrants,” adds Cathy Sawicki, co-chair of the 100th Anniversary Committee. Of all of the 125 active parks in Thunder Bay, the 121-hectare (300-acre) Chippewa has the widest variety of facilities to offer park-goers. The merry-go-round, for example, is the centrepiece of a modest amusement park with children’s rides and in-season concessions. At its height of use, according to the City’s Park history section, the Park featured a roller coaster, tilt-a-whirl, as well as a Ferris wheel, and a train that ran on
Chippewa Park in Thunder Bay celebrates its 100th year on July 15. | CITY OF THUNDER BAY tracks through the park grounds. The pavilion near the Park’s centre has had a restaurant/snack bar with a choice of healthy and comfort foods. In addition, it has hosted movie nights, Sunday evening concerts, and Tuesday night musical jam sessions. The pavilion has been available for private rental for weddings and showers, and in recent years hosted theatrical productions by Moonlight Melodrama.
For many years, the Park featured a wildlife exhibit with such diverse fauna as a polar bear, a bald eagle named President Johnson, wolves, moose and elk. However, with public opinion changing toward a negative view of zoos, the exhibit was closed to the public in 2017, with most animals relocated. The few remaining animals will live out the rest of their days in the care of Park personnel. The 1980s brought other challenges. Between the Park’s location on the extreme
Mon-Sat: 11am - 9pm Closed Sunday
BEER &
WINE
Regional Beer on Tap!
MySistersPlaceRestaurant.com
Order Online! 218-387-1915 401 E. Hwy 61, Grand Marais JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
A 1934-vintage merry-go-round is the centerpiece of the modest amusement park with children’s rides and in-season concessions. The park also offers swimming beaches, a campground, and cabins you can rent. | CITY OF THUNDER BAY
In addition to two swimming beaches, the Park has a campground with 140 sites for tents or RVs, although in recent years, these have been scaled back. Those seeking a different getaway could rent log cabins on the property for weekends or longer. Chippewa is also a year-round destination, with toboggan runs and ice-skating facilities available in the winter.
Down-home Northwoods Atmosphere
14
At its height of use, according to the City’s Park history section, the Chippewa Park featured a roller coaster, tilt-a-whirl, a Ferris wheel, and a train that ran on tracks through the park grounds. | CITY OF THUNDER BAY
southern edge of the city, and with the emergence of other area concert and gathering venues, such as Prince Arthur’s Landing, Chippewa’s ability to attract park goers has suffered. Restrictions on gathering due to COVID-19, has further reduced the number of recreational visitors. But for all that has happened, Chippewa remains Chippewa, a unique family-friendly park waiting for the pandemic to pass by, and for people to return. In the meantime,
the Friends of Chippewa Park are fundraising for the proposed July-August Family Festival. Anyone wishing to participate in the draw can access the Friends of Chippewa Park page at: chippewapark.ca/catchtheace. —Peter Fergus-Moore
the water when operating the drill. Drilling requires water to lubricate and eliminate the dust and tailings. Choiselat explained, that in the beginning there was a lot of trial and error in understanding how the machine worked. The first lesson he learned was that if the rock was not in a fixed position, the drill bit would break. This led him to making a container to hold the drill and another that would keep the rock stationary. He also learned that softer stones such as marble, is more difficult to drill. Granite has a harder composition and the residue created by drilling is not as gummy.
Inspired by geology, Nipigon artist Roland Choiselat creates everything from rock candle holders and vases to rock mushrooms, sculptures and bird baths. | SUBMITTED
Evolution of an artist NIPIGON— Roland Choiselat was born and raised in the community of Nipigon. His parents Eugene and Lea owned and operated the Sunnyside Cabins which were situated on the former Trans-Canada Highway. After completing teacher’s college in Thunder Bay, he returned to Nipigon and began working at St Edwards. It was the same elementary school that he had attended as a child. He retired 32 years later and wanted to do something different.
Choiselat had always had an interest in local geology, and when he would come across a unique rock, he would not hesitate to bring it home. Wanting to enhance the appearance of his finds, he began polishing them. His favorite stones to work with had reddish hues. But it wasn’t until he came across some magazines that explored more diverse ways of working with rocks, that he decided to purchase a drill rig. It was 3 feet tall with a 20-amp motor that fits the core drills. It was set upon a steel tub that collects
Once Choiselat became more proficient with the machine, he began making candle holders. His friends were impressed by his unique work and suggested he start his own company. Not sure what to name it, he took his niece’s advice and called it Hole in the Rock Creations. Choiselat found the drill rig loud and decided to purchase another one that he could operate outside of the house. And like with the first one he purchased, he designed a container to hold it and another for the rocks he would be cutting. His next project was making vases to hold flowers. Then came Choiselat’s signature pieces, which are mushrooms. In his earlier attempts, he made their stems out of wood. But he later learned how to make them out of stone. Always open for new ways to advance his artistry, he purchased an angle grinder. He used this new machine to flatten the bottoms of his candle holders. This led to his adding glass chimneys to safely contain the flames of the candles. The angle grinder was also great for polishing the surfaces of his finished pieces.
Inspired by the annual bird house auction hosted by the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Choiselat went on to make bird nests. He cut the rocks ring-by-ring until he reached the bottom, which he smoothed with a grinder. To make the nests look even more realistic, Choiselat added moss and small stones that looked like freshly laid eggs. Another area that he expanded into were pieces that enhance the rustic beauty of yards and gardens. This has led to his placing solar lights inside rocks, constructing bird baths and a bird feeder that is rooted in a 400-pound rock by a post. He has also made several sculptures for clients; they pick out their own rocks and give him specific directions on how they would like them assembled. These commissioned pieces are usually about 4 feet high and held together by a steel rod. Choiselat’s approach to his artwork is never forced. It’s an evolutionary process whereby he lets the rocks guide him into what they should become. And nothing gives him more satisfaction than the pleasure he gets in being able to share his works of art with others. People all around the world possess his creations. Choiselat has also donated several of his pieces to charitable organizations that have used them for fundraising events. One of his rock creations is on display at the community garden in downtown Nipigon. Anyone that would like to see his work or learn more about how his pieces are constructed can contact him at: holeintherockcreations@shaw.ca.—Kim Casey
Summer Reading “If you love loons—as I do—this book will amaze and delight you.”
—Jennifer Ackerman, author of the NYT bestseller The Genius of Birds
“Opens up the mysteries of the loon’s world and makes it more fascinating than ever.”
Celebrating 5 Years Thank You Cook County! Date Nights Thursdays 7-9 p.m. Weekend Wine Down Sundays 3-5 p.m. 202 Ski Hill Road in Lutsen
northshorewinery.us
—Kenn Kaufman, editor of the Kaufman Field Guide series $24.95 hardcover | 240 pages
For the young reader:
The story of the life of one queen rustypatched bumblebee, which teaches us not only about bees but also about our own responsibilities in the natural world $17.95 hardcover | 48 pages University of Minnesota Press | Available at better bookstores, or to order call 800-621-2736 | www.upress.umn.edu
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
15
Points North State may return Superior beach to the Ojibwe an X, saying he was the rightful owner because he paid the taxes. Other land was lost to eminent domain for the construction of Highway 61. By the late 1930s, most of the families at Chippewa City moved away.
By Shawn Perich
“It’s contentious to say that the land was stolen, Drouillard says, “but it was. Then it was turned into a gravel pit and kind of abused and forgotten. It is time to let that beach rest. It is time for it to be honored as a significant place for a lot of people and just be left alone.”
A 1.85-acre parcel of Lake Superior shoreline on the eastern edge of Grand Marais may come full circle. Once part of an Indigenous community known as Chippewa City, the land with a Lake Superior beach is now a former gravel pit owned by the Minnesota Dept. of Transportation. The Grand Portage Band has asked MNDOT to reconvey the property to them to be placed in tribal trust status. The Cook County Board, Grand Marais City Council and Cook County Historical Society have voiced unanimous support for Grand Portage’s request. Colloquially known as the Passion Pit, the beach has long been used by the local community as a place to get close to the lake, walk the beach and perhaps have an evening campfire with friends. Since MNDOT no longer needs or uses the land, and was prompted in part by complaints in recent years of poor behavior at the beach, the agency began the process of disposing of the property. MNDOT district engineer Duane Hill said the first step of the procedure was to find out if other state agencies were interested in acquiring the land. The DNR, which owns land nearby, wasn’t interested in MNDOT’s parcel. Hill had been approached by neighbors interested in purchasing the property, so he began the next step in the disposal process: putting it up for bid for private sale. At that point, Cook County indicated its interest in the property and established a task force to address concerns about the poor behavior and chart a path forward. The task force led to the creation of a more formal committee to look at long-term plans for the property. Then Grand Portage tossed its hat into the acquisition ring. Grand Portage tribal chairman Bob Deschampe said the Band recognized the moment as a one-time opportunity to acquire land in a place of great importance to the Ojibwe community. Currently, all that remains of Chippewa City, where at least 100 families lived at the turn of the 20th Century, is the St. Francis Xavier Church, built in 1895, and the nearby cemetery. If Grand Portage successfully acquires the land, it will mark the first time MNDOT, and possibly any state agency, has transferred land outside of a reservation boundary to a tribe. Deschampe emphasized the Band has no intention of developing the land.
16
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
There is a process, guided by state statute, for reconveying the land to Grand Portage, but it will take time to complete. In the interim, Cook County land services director Tim Nelson says the county, which owns a 37-foot-wide strip of land that provides access to the beach, will mitigate issues related to public use by providing waste receptacles and signage on the county property. If Grand Portage is unsuccessful in acquiring the land, the county is next in line to acquire it. Nelson, who participated in the county task force and advisory committee, said the county’s perspective regarding the use of the beach parallels that of Grand Portage. “Everyone agreed the site should be kept as natural as possible,” he said. “And everyone felt the neighbors should not have to deal with any negative issues associated with public use.” Grand Marais author Staci Drouillard researched the history of Chippewa City for her definitive book Walking the Old Road. She is hopeful a proposed land transaction will return a small land parcel and a portion of the Lake Superior beach to the Grand Portage Band. | SUBMITTED “Our plan is to get the land put into the trust of the Grand Portage Band,” Deschampe said. “It is not our purpose to create a park or cut off anyone else from going to the beach. We will work with the city and the county moving forward.” Deschampe said the Band has reached out to the North House Folk School about constructing a small, timber-framed pavilion at the site with informational panels about local Ojibwe history. “We’d like to tell our story and give the people a chance to get near the lake,” he said. Although the land is outside of the present-day Grand Portage Reservation, it is within the ancestral lands of the North Shore Ojibwe. In 1854, the Grand Portage, Bois Fort and Fond du Lac Ojibwe bands signed a treaty with the United States that ceded their lands in what is now northeastern Minnesota to the government. In the treaty, the Ojibwe retained certain rights, such as fishing, hunting and gathering, which they exercise today. The treaty opened the door to European settlers and the Homestead Act of 1862 allowed them to claim 160 acres as private property. The European approach to land ownership was far different than the communal perspec-
tive of the Ojibwe, who moved with the seasons to take advantage of food resources. Author Staci Drouillard, a Grand Portage descendent who chronicled the history of Chippewa City in her 2019 book, Walking the Old Road, is excited by the possibility of the land being returned to the Ojibwe. In the early 1900s, Chippewa City had more population than adjacent Grand Marais, but its Ojibwe inhabitants were disadvantaged by poverty, a lack of understanding of legal issues and racism. Drouillard said that when the county tightened its tax policy in 1930, many properties in Chippewa City became tax delinquent. A local land speculator offered to pay the taxes for the financially impoverished Ojibwe and later convinced them to sign documents, with
Shawn Perich’s POINTS NORTH online
Everyone interviewed for this story agreed as well that returning this remnant of what was once an Ojibwe community is a pretty big deal. Now, over 165 years after the Treaty of 1854 was signed, the local community is acknowledging history and the people to whom the land once belonged. The beach will remain a place where everyone can find solace beside Lake Superior. “It’s not just ancient history,” Drouillard said. “The kids from Great Expectations (a Grand Marais charter school) have a picnic every year on the beach. This is an ancient and modern legacy.”
Follow outdoor writer Shawn Perich as he reports on conservation issues and explores the North Shore wilderness with his dog Rainy. Sign up for this web exclusive blog at northernwilds.com
State applies herbicide on North Shore forests
Climate-informed reforestation taking place at state parks along North Shore NORTH SHORE—Throughout the Great Lakes region, the northwoods signature tree species such as paper birch, quaking aspen, balsam fir and white spruce are slowly giving way to invasive grasses and shrubs. With help from The Nature Conservancy, hundreds of acres of land across four Minnesota state parks are being reforested with a mix of climate-adapted native species to diversify and improve the health and climate resiliency of these lands into the future. The largest project site is at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park on Lake Superior’s North Shore. There, paper birch trees are nearing the end of their lifespan, resulting in areas that are overgrown with brush.
TWO HARBORS—The Minnesota DNR is applying herbicide on select state lands in the Two Harbors work area to ready the sites for reforestation efforts. Applications totaling 189 acres in the Finland and Grand Portage State Forests began around June 15.
changed from what was once here due to turn-of-the-century logging practices, deer browse and climate change.” Additional planting is being done at Gooseberry Falls, Temperance River and Cascade River state parks. In all, 100,000 seedlings will be planted across the four state parks.
In following DNR herbicide application guidelines, herbicides are not to be applied within 100 feet of any waterbody.
Forests with more diverse tree species and ages are more resistant to insect and disease threats and host a broader variety of so So many lakes… wildlife species. Trees on the landscape e to fish. little timslow rainwater runoff and erosion, shade streams, and capture and store carbon to help slow climate change.
CATCH:
Inlet
15
20
10 5
Inlet
15
5
20
5
Gunfl
30 40
50
30
60
10
5
50
40
30
50 40
10 15
5
20
30
30
Right Where do you start?
here.
20
5
10
20
30
15
il
to find them.
10
20
60
50 40 30 20
15
10
5 5
5
10 10
30
Lizz Lake
5 10
5
5
Out
let
Portage to Swamp Lake
ss “Inside this book, endle .” await fishing adventures —Shawn Perich Publisher Outdoor Writer and
$14.95 740207-7-8 ISBN 978-0-9 51495>
publishes Inc. of Grand Marais Northern Wilds Media, Wilds magazine, which is the monthly Northern North Shore locations from of United States by available at dozens Bay. Printed in the Duluth to Thunder & Copy. www.northernwilds.com Northern Wilds Print
s
r 350 fishing lake A guide to ovedepth contour maps Includes 68
9 780974 020778
More information about how the DNR manages Minnesota’s forests can be found at: mndnr.gov/forestry.
COOK COUNTY, MN
30
50
70
sota
Cook County, Where the Fish Are! data to 366 lakes with Minnesota is a guide and population status, about the fish species maps for acreage. Contour and access public lakes are included. 68 popular fishing
20 15
15 20
40 60
Cook County, Minne
The project is primarily funded by a gift from a private family foundation to TNC with additional funds provided by Minnesota DNR and TNC.
5 10
50
60
Are!
famed for its quality Cook County is justly g ess waters teemin fishing. From wildern Prune Lake s to secluded ponds with trophy walleye trout, this county stocked with brook . fishing opportunities provides wonderful walleyes, bass, outh Lake trout, smallm crappies, yellow perch, northern pike, black swim in s and stream trout whitefish, muskie where you This book tells the county’s lakes.
50
This past spring in the Two Harbors work area, the Division of Forestry planted 200,000 seedlings on 346 acres, and another 106 were seeded.
Where the Fish Are!
int Tra
15
20
40
40
15 20
10
30
10
Portage to Skipper Lake
KIES, PIKE, WALLEYES, BROO AND MORE LAKERS, BASS
40
30
30
Where the Fish
“State parks are not only a great place to get outdoors, but they are also home to vast natural resources that need protection and active management to remain healthy into the future,” said Liza McCarthy, DNR district resource specialist. “These forests have
Signs are posted on all herbicide treatment sites. Adjacent landowners within a quarter mile of the treatment sites are notified by mail.
Park visitors may see fencing and protective exclosures around new plantings to deter deer browse. As the trees grow, visitors may observe how the forest changes over time and how different species of wildlife are attracted to it. 20 30
With a private grant obtained by The Nature Conservancy, thousands of seedlings in a mix of white pine, red oak, bur oak, yellow birch, white cedar and tamarack have been planted, utilizing best practices for maintaining forests into the future.
Herbicides will be sprayed to reduce woody vegetation that would otherwise compete with the newly planted tree seedlings. This gives the tree seedlings a better chance to grow and survive.
The DNR plants trees on state lands to reforest harvested areas, provide wildlife habitat, protect watersheds, sequester carbon and maintain healthy state forests. Part of the reforestation process involves applying herbicides to an area prior to or following tree planting. DNR foresters determine the right tree species for the site and private contractors do the actual planting.
A guide to 366 lakes with data about the fish species and population status, public access and acreage. Contour maps for 68 popular fishing lakes are included. Retails for $14.95
Order shop.northernwilds.com
Money Exchange Parcel Pickup Family Owned Since 1947
218-475-2330
Protect your property from wildfire.
Duty-Free Liquor 10,000 U.S. and Canadian Souvenirs
Gas
www.RydensBorderStore.com
The North Shore’s full-fiber broadband network, providing phone & internet service throughout Cook County.
218-663-9030
TrueNorth@arrowhead.coop TrueNorthBroadband.com
Need help? Check with these contractors for services: www.cookcountyfirewise.org/information-for-homeowners/brush-removal-contractors
COOK COUNTY FIREWISE 411 W 2nd St, Grand Marais, MN 55604 firewise@co.cook.mn.us • 218.370.8966
www.cookcountyfirewise.org
COOK COUNTY
M I N N E S O TA
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
17
Historic Hwy 61
Schroeder Schroeder Silver Silver Bay Bay Beaver Beaver Bay Bay
along Lake Superior
Duluth Duluth
61 61
Two Two Harbors Harbors
The Historic Highway 61 By Shawn Perich
The North Shore has become so focused on present-day tourism that many visitors and new residents are vaguely aware of the region’s long and storied human history, which dates back to the period of post glaciation. A strong archaeological record exists, but in the minds of many, history begins with the arrival of the first European explorers, who were followed by first fur traders, then settlers, Nordic immigrants and others drawn by the region’s abundant natural resources of fur, fish, minerals, timber and, lastly, scenery. For centuries, the only travel on the North Shore was by canoe or on foot. The primary travel routes were remarkable networks of interconnected waterways that allowed people to travel north to Hudson’s Bay, west to the Great Plains and south to the Mississippi drainage. European explorers and traders typically came from the east across the Great Lakes in freighter canoes and later in sailing vessels. Even in the early 20th Century, much of the North Shore was accessible only by boat. The final stretch of present-day Highway 61—over Mount Josephine at Grand Portage to the Canadian border—wasn’t completed until the early 1960s. Since today’s travelers follow Highway 61, let’s follow that route to explore North Shore history. We’ll make a little detour to travel Scenic 61 (not the expressway) between Duluth and Two Harbors. 18
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Travel down to the harbor in Two Harbors and you’ll see the historic Edna G. tugboat, as well as the Two Harbors lighthouse. | CHRISTOPHER HUGHES
Knife River
Proposed hard rock mining for copper is a current controversy, but early European settlers invested time and money prospecting for copper. Native copper in the bed of Knife River attracted prospectors as early as 1954. While copper veins were located, none were rick enough to begin profitable mining.
Tom’s Logging Camp
5797 North Shore Drive Duluth, MN (218) 525-4120, tomsloggingcamp.com Visit Tom’s Logging Camp on the scenic North Shore Drive—Just halfway between Duluth and Two Harbors. The tour features six museum buildings filled with authentic turn of the century logging equipment. Feed rainbow trout, llamas, chickens, and goats. View early chainsaw display. Confound yourself in the gravity house. The Trading Post gift shop features over 70 styles of moccasins, huge jewelry selection, wild rice, knives, T-shirts, and sweatshirts. There are wood crafts, agates, and a large variety of gifts and souvenirs. Truly, a classic stop for over 50 years! Groups are welcome.
Two Harbors
Great Lakes Candy Co. 223 Scenic Dr, Knife River, MN (218) 834-2121, greatlakescandy.com
We are third and fourth generation candy makers following our family recipes from over 100 years of tradition. All of our candy is handmade the old-fashioned way, cooked in copper kettles, hand stirred and made in small batches. Our candies are made with quality ingredients using lots of whipping cream, grade AA butter, and fine chocolate. Our shop on the Scenic Drive of Highway 61 is open May through December and you can order our sweet treats online November through mid-December. Come help us celebrate our 15th anniversary at this location on your way up the North Shore this season!
Two Harbors’ rich history is on display if you leave the highway and drive into town. An early port for iron ore, the town still has working docks where you can watch lake freighters take on their load. The Lake County Historical Museum is worth a visit. Outside are two steam locomotives that were used to haul ore from the Iron Range. On the harbor, don’t miss the historic tugboat Edna G. and the Two Harbors Lighthouse.
Superior Finds
601 1st Ave Two Harbors, MN (218) 393-7355, superiorfinds.com You won’t want to miss what Superior Finds has to offer when you stop in the town that many visitors see as the “gateway to the North.” You will find that despite being amidst the historical harbor downtown
Tofte Tofte
Lutsen Lutsen Grand Marais Grand Marais Hovland Hovland
61 61
area, the unique goods we carry are far from out of touch. Stop in for your essential and not-so-essential items such as clothing, home goods, wall art, cards, books, and more including pieces from over 40 different contributing artists! Stop in and grab a gift for that special occasion or someone in your life—even if that’s you!
Grand Grand Portage Portage
paddlers were overtaken by a storm. Eventually, they made a safe landing at a river mouth, where Father Baraga erected a wooden cross. A granite cross at the mouth commemorates his landing. The Cross River was used for river drives during the logging era. You can learn more at the nearby Cross River Heritage Center in Schroeder.
Split Rock Lighthouse
Lutsen
This community has been in the tourism game since the beginning. Established in 1885, Lutsen Resort is the oldest resort in Minnesota. Nearby Lutsen Mountains is also one of the oldest and largest ski areas in the Upper Midwest.
The North Shore’s famous icon needs no introduction. This is a must-stop for anyone with an interest in lighthouses and the shipwrecks that led to their construction.
North Shore Winery
202 Ski Hill Road Lutsen, MN (218) 481-9280, northshorewinery.us
Located about 13 miles northeast of Two Harbors, Gooseberry Falls State Park offers great views and hiking. | EDWARD LEE
Split Rock Lighthouse
to bankruptcy in the 1980s, the plant reopened in 1990 and continues to produce taconite pellets for the steel industry.
3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd Two Harbors, MN (218) 226-6372, mnhs.org/splitrock Come for the view, stay for the story. Shipwrecks from a mighty 1905 November gale prompted this rugged landmark’s construction. Completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, Split Rock Light Station was soon one of Minnesota’s best known landmarks. Explore the grounds on a self-guided tour and learn about the keepers and their families that lived and worked at Split Rock. Learn more at mnhs.org/splitrock.
Silver Bay
As the rich, red iron ore played out on the Iron Range, a process was developed to extract iron from lower grade, but abundant taconite. The first taconite processing plant began operation in 1955 at Silver Bay. During the 1970s the plant was the focal point of a major environmental court case, because of concerns the tailings—powdered rock—being dumped in the lake were harmful to human health. The case was resolved when the plant was allowed to pump the tailings several miles inland to a contained disposal site. Closed for several years due
loading docks and power plant have been shuttered. There is a small outdoor exhibit and lookout just above the public launch.
Schroeder
Cross River Heritage Center North Shore Adventure Park
42 Outer Dr Silver Bay, MN (218) 220-5330, northshoreadventurepark.com Unleash your inner jungle animal on 75 challenging tree-top obstacles, including 10 ziplines. What you’ll find at Minnesota’s only forest adventure park: six challenge courses with five levels of difficulty for adults and kids 7+. Ten ziplines, including our Dual Racing Zipline. Li’l Rascals Adventure Playground for kids ages 3 to 6. Picnic areas. Non-climbers watch for free. We are exactly halfway between Grand Marais and Duluth, right on Highway 61. The perfect destination for friends, families, youth groups, and business outings.
Taconite Harbor
Not much remains of the community of Taconite Harbor. Drive down the road to the public boat launch and you’ll pass barely discernable pavement where 24 homes were located to house the families of Erie Mining workers in 1957. Taconite Harbor was constructed as the port for Erie’s taconite processing plant in Hoyt Lakes. It also housed a coal-fired power generating facility. The homes were removed in 1990. The
7932 W Hwy 61 Schroeder, MN (218) 663-7706, crossriverheritage.org The North Shore experience includes the Highway 61 waterfalls and the Cross River Heritage Center in Schroeder—gateway to Cook County, the Superior National Forest, and the Boundary Waters. Stop in for Visit Cook County and travel information. Tour the wonderful history museum with cultural exhibits, art galleries, and an artisan gift shop. The Cross River Heritage Center collaborates with local businesses, organizations, and Explore Minnesota to host a Welcome Center where you can learn about recreational opportunities, hiking trails, fall color routes, and endless opportunities to see wildlife. Enjoy your visit and help keep the forest and waters clean.
Father Baraga’s Cross In August 1843, Catholic missionary the Reverend F.R. Baraga set out from the Anishinaabe village of LaPointe on Wisconsin’s Madeline Island for the North Shore. Crossing Lake Superior, he and his
Driving through Lutsen? Turn left at mile marker 91 to visit North Shore Winery and the Sawtooth Mountain Cider House just ½ mile up Ski Hill Road to Experience a Taste of Lutsen! Celebrating our fifth anniversary, the Winery produces red, white, and rose wines and its hard cider is made from Minnesota grown apples. Hours are 12:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday. Thursdays we’re open late for Date Nights from 2:30-9 p.m. with music by Gordon Thorne from 7-9 p.m. Sundays we’re open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. with Weekend Wine Down music from 3-5 p.m. Closed Wednesday.
Clearview General Store 5323 MN-61 Lutsen, MN (218) 663-7478, facebook.com/clearviewgeneralstore
Clearview General Store is your one stop shop for supplies when you are traveling “Up North.” We carry a little bit of everything from a full line of groceries to bait and tackle/camping supplies, as well as gifts, and all your rainy-day supplies (puzzles, games, toys, craft supplies, and movie rentals). We also have everything you may need for your furry companions. Open 365 days a year. When you stop to fuel up check out the new Grab & Go food section, pick up a sandwich and enjoy it in our picnic area.
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
19
Historic Hwy 61
Schroeder Schroeder Silver Silver Bay Bay Beaver Beaver Bay Bay
along Lake Superior
Duluth Duluth
Two Two Harbors Harbors
61 61
s t Dayk’s s e B The at Buc B eg i n
Serving anglers in Grand Marais since 1946
Buck’s Hardware Jeweler of the North Shore
5339 W Hwy 61 Suite 101 Lutsen, MN (218) 370-9648, JeweleroftheNorthShore.com The Jeweler of the North Shore is your Minnesota North Shore’s headquarters for expert jewelry service, including custom design, repair and individualized recreation of jewelry. I have a passion for the North Shore of Lake Superior, wherein I create designs to represent its beauty. That being said, everyone has their own passion. Bring me your experience or memories and I will create a life-long piece of jewelry that you will treasure forever. That piece can be created from scratch or from existing family jewelry heirlooms. “Jeweler of the North Shore… much more than a jewelry store!” (including art, clothing & gifts).—Steve Hahn, Goldsmith - Co-Owner
Cascade Restaurant & Pub 3719 W Hwy 61 Lutsen, MN (218) 387-1112, cascadelodgemn.com
A landmark eatery on Highway 61, serving locals and visitors since 1947. Half-way between Lutsen and Grand Marias and in the center of beautiful Cascade River State Park, Cascade restaurant and pub offers craft burgers and flatbreads, many vegetarian and vegan options, and excellent views of Lake Superior. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or one of our famous Bloody Mary’s anytime. Cascade Pub is known for friendly service, craft beer and drink specials, great bites to share, and is a favorite place to enjoy the talents of many local musicians on our summer patio.
Grand Marais
The best place to begin learning the history of Grand Marais is at the Cook County Historical Society Museum. The harbor was used commercially for fishing and rafting pulpwood. Early settlers sought wealth by prospecting for native copper and other minerals. The town also has deep roots as a haven for artists.
20
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
18 1st Ave W, Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-2280, buckshardware.net Buck’s has been supplying the essentials for the North Shore way of life since the 1940’s. We like to say, “the best days begin at Buck’s”—no matter what your day has in store. We are your one-stop shop, open seven days a week. If it’s on your list, but not on our shelf, we’ll order it. Whether you’re preparing for your next catch, forgot some camping gear at home, or just need a snack while you fill up on gas, come on over to Buck’s for big city prices and small town service!
Beaver House
12 Wisconsin St, Grand Marais, MN (218) 3837-2092, facebook.com/ Beaver-House-1439599763008641 This iconic Grand Marais business has been wowing both fishermen and visitors alike for decades. It is hard to miss this landmark with a giant walleye protruding from the storefront welcoming all that pass by. This work of art has been a common backdrop for tourist photos since it was created by local artist Jim Korf in 1990. Visitors to the shop are also greeted by many years worth of trophy fish mounted on the walls, although more true to size than the storefront walleye. When you stop in, operating owner Tyson Cronberg will tell you all about the catches and the infamous house-made Beaver Flicks that helped him along the way.
Joynes Department Store and Ben Franklin
105 Wisconsin St., Grand Marais, 218-387-2233, JoynesBenFranklin.com Celebrating 80 years! The Joynes Department Store and Ben Franklin is a family owned, third generation, Department Store. Many describe us as, “one stop shopping.” Others say, “If Joynes doesn’t have it, you don’t need it.” We are known for our Footwear Department, with names such as Merrell, Minnetonka, CROCS, Teva and BOGS, Men’s, Women’s and Kid’s Clothing, with names
Grand Marais has deep roots as a haven for artists. It’s also home to the Cook County Historical Society Museum. | MARK MORGEN such as Carhartt, Pendleton, Stormy Kromer, Dakota Grizzly and Dale of Norway. You’ll find Camping Supplies, Housewares, Health/Beauty, Stationery, Fabric, Yarn, Toys, Puzzles, Blankets, Souvenirs, Souvenir Shirts, and much more!
Joy & Company
16 1st Ave W, Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-1004, joy-and-company.com
Birchbark Books and Gifts
11 1st Ave W, Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-2315, facebook.com/Birchbarkgifts Birchbark Books and Gifts is the largest bookstore on the Northshore! We have many author signed local books in our collection! We also carry a wonderful assortment of best sellers and mystery’s as well as children’s books! We have a nice selection of used books of all kinds! Birchbark has some well priced stylish clothing from sweaters to sweatshirts and Fitkicks water/ street shoes! Bring your grandchild in to find a stuffed animal in our forest or something to keep them busy at the cabin! Don’t miss this 7000 sq ft store on the shore!
Grand Marais State Bank
211 E Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-2441, grandmaraisstatebank.com For over 100 years Grand Marais State Bank has been serving the people and businesses of Cook County. Originally located on Wisconsin Street at the site of today’s Gunflint Tavern, we moved to our current location along Highway 61 in 1997 and opened our Tofte Branch location in 1985. Among all the changes through the years, one thing is certain, Grand Marais State Bank continues to be a community-focused bank. At Grand Marais State Bank, we do not have customers, we have family, friends, and neighbors.
The Joy & Company building 16 1st Ave West in Grand Marais, was established as Lind Chevrolet in the 1920s has been reincarnated as Lake Superior Collectibles and has been Joy and Company for the last 10 years. It is a remarkable space, selling antiques, art supplies and products by over 130 local and regional makers. Come through the small door and into the big store full of history, Joy, unique items and the largest art supply selection in the arrowhead. Sit at Mable’s lunch counter on stools from Leng’s soda fountain (pictured here) and make some art yourself. It is a place like no other.
The Fisherman’s Daughter
418 MN Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-2906, thefishermansdaughtergm.com No trip to the North Shore is complete without a stop at The Fisherman’s Daughter at Dockside Fish Market. As Grand Marais’ favorite lunch shop, we specialize in dock to table fish+chips, fresh deli items, smoked fish, cheese and cured meats. In addition to delicious food, we house a unique harbor town gift shop with kitchen goods, apparel, sweet Scandinavian treats, locally roasted
Tofte Tofte
Lutsen Lutsen Grand Marais Grand Marais Hovland Hovland
61 61
Grand Grand Portage Portage
Hungry Hippie Hostel
coffee, cookbooks and more. Our market and deli is open 10:00-6:00, and our kitchen is open serving fish+chips from 11:00-4:00.
401 County Road 14 Grand Marais, MN, (218) 387-2256, hungryhippiehostel.com
North House Folk School
Nestled into the hillside overlooking Lake Superior is a beautifully refurbished barn on our small family farm called Hungry Hippie Hostel. On the edge of the wilderness, a mile off of the Superior Hiking Trail and at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the Hungry Hippie Hostel is a great place to relax after an eventful day of play. Let us give you a fun, local North Shore experience! Private rooms, primitive campsites + glamping tents available. Affordable accommodations on the North Shore.
500 West Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-9762, northouse.org
North House Folk School has been teaching traditional craft on the shore of Lake Superior for nearly 25 years. You can learn everything from basketry to boat building and blacksmithing to braided rug making. In the summer months, you can sail on the flagship schooner of the Grand Marais Harbor: Hjørdis, take an introductory wood fired baking class, or attend a multi-day craft course. Our school store is open 7 days a week, offering handcrafts, books, craft supplies, clothing, and more! Learn more about North House, our mission, classes, and all our activities at northhouse.org.
Hovland
The Hovland Dock is a quiet place to enjoy Lake Superior. The dock once served as the community’s only connection to the outside world. Steamers would arrive with passengers and goods and leave with barrels and boxes of locally caught fish.
Hungry Hippie Tacos
15 W Hwy 61, Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-3382 hungryhippiehostel.com/the-tacos An approachable taco shop serving up Frybread tacos + Northern tacos from our tiny scratch kitchen. We make everything right here from the brisket we smoke for 14 hours to the Frybread we make fresh everyday—all day long! Stop on in for some of the North Shore’s favorite menu items: Nashville Hot Cheese Curds, Hot Tators + Dips, Chips + Dip, Nachos or Totchos, La Perla Corn Tortilla Tacos, and of course our famous Northern Frybread Tacos filled to your liking with options such as Apple Smoked Pork, Ale + Chili Smoked Brisket, Salsa Roasted Chicken, Spiced Ground Beef, and Ranch Beans + Spanish Rice.
Head to Grand Portage State Park to see the 120-foot High Falls waterfall, located on the Pigeon River. | DONNA KELLAR your Boundary Waters camping trip. We’ve got it all. Need food on a Sunday? We’re OPEN daily!
300 W 3rd St, Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-3411, myCCHE.org
20 East 1st Street Grand Marais, MN 218-387-2503, cookcounty.coop
Fueling your adventures for over 40 years by providing travelers, adventurers, & local community with fresh, healthy, food & drink since 1976. Everyone is Welcome to stop in for fresh bakery goods, hot coffee & cold drinks, Grab & Go deli foods, and wellness products—not to mention the cheeses, meats, and produce you long for. Organic, vegan, diary-free, and gluten-free diets will find a wide variety of foods right here. Shop for ingredients for dinner, or grab food to take on
218 W Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN (218) 387-9400, javamoosegrandmarais.com Java Moose, a seasonal coffee cart, was established by the Casselius family in 1992, located near the water’s edge in the Lake Superior Trading Post. Ann and Gary Jorgenson purchased the little cart and blue sky in 1999. The Jorgenson family saw the need to have a year around business and added the main location at 218 W Hwy 61 in 2002. Originally, the building was a Pete’s Shell service station, in essence, that spot has always been fueling the travelers of Highway 61. Rumor has it the original garage doors are still in the ceiling.
Cook County Higher Education Cook County Co-op
Java Moose
Cook County Higher Education (CCHE) is celebrating 25 years of helping locals further their education without ever leaving Cook County! This past year taught us that life can change in an instant – leaving many of us evaluating our life choices. If you’d like to make a job or career change, CCHE can help. We can help you get training and education that will make a difference. We offer tutoring, tuition scholarships, and one-on-one consultations. And the best part is that it is all free. Ready to make a change? Contact us today!
Grand Portage
The oldest European settlement in Minnesota, this Indigenous community played an important role in the North American fur trade. Indigenous people lived here for untold centuries prior to the arrival of Europeans. You can learn more about this history at the Grand Portage National Monument.
Colville
The wayside at Kadunce Creek serves a popular hiking trail. A monument there commemorates Colonel William J. Colville, Jr., who led the First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry in the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. The First Minnesota Regiment’s charge up Cemetery Ridge delayed the Confederates long enough to allow Union reinforcements to arrive, but at heavy cost. Of the 282 men who made the charge, 217 were killed or wounded.
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
21
ISLE ROYALE
Another World Story and photos by Eric Chandler
Panaroma of the view from Mt. Josephine over Wauswaugoning Bay to the Susie Islands with Isle Royale in the distance.
M
y wife Shelley led the four of us along the narrow path with Lake Superior to her right and thick brush to her left. She watched her step and looked at the ground. She thought, You know, I should really pay attention to what’s farther out in front of me, in case there’s a—
the ferry motors along the south side. We would circumnavigate Isle Royale, so it felt like a cruise all by itself. It’s about a 7-hour jaunt one way. After all those logistics, I folded and took the easy route of renting a Rock Harbor Lodge cottage. A simple cabin we could use as a base camp. We brought snacks for lunch and counted on the restaurant for breakfast and dinner. I have to admit that beer with your burger for supper sounded better than dehydrated meals over a tiny stove. I must be getting older.
She looked up and saw the broad, brown back of a moose 20 yards away. She stopped and pointed it out to me. I put myself between my family and the moose, my daughter Grace right behind me. We quietly backed up and tried to give plenty of room. Two hikers on the far side of the moose had the opposite plan. They kept getting closer and closer to the animal, about three times closer than we were on our side. I kept backing us up, fearing the worst. Finally, the moose had enough. Suddenly, the brown shape exploded out of the brush. The massive antlers filled the trail like the front of an 18-wheeler and it sprinted toward us with long, loping strides. It ran halfway to me before I could even react. Then, just a few yards away, it suddenly veered back into the dense undergrowth. We could still hear it, but couldn’t see it. Grace had plunged her fingers into me like meat hooks, so I checked myself for broken ribs. Before the moose was out of earshot, the older man and woman who pushed it into us walked up. I almost gave the guy an earful about taking a year off my life, but his smile stopped me. He showed us the pictures of the moose on his phone. Since they were closer, his photos were, of course, better than mine. His wife said that moose were his favorite thing in the world. He had moose posters in his house and moose paraphernalia on his shelves, but he’d never seen one until now. We got caught up in his childlike enthusiasm and I managed to keep my mouth shut. Safely back at the Rock Harbor marina, my family posed for a photo making Bullwinkle antlers with their hands. I guess it was a big deal for us on Isle Royale, too. 22
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
We drove up the North Shore to Grand Portage and stayed at the casino hotel. This put us in place for the dawn departure of the Voyageur II. We hiked Mt. Josephine that afternoon. We looked west and saw Grand Portage Bay and the old fur trading post. We turned around and saw the dramatic sweep of Wauswaugoning Bay leading to the Susie Islands with the sliver of Isle Royale on the horizon. That hike alone was worth the trip. A dog gives us a sendoff from Grand Portage at dawn.
The ferry ride was fun, but it was still a long ride to Rock Harbor.
Homeward bound on the Voyageur II next to an Isle Royale map.
In 2020, Isle Royale National Park had the smallest number of visitors of any national park in the continental United States. It’s not surprising since the only way to get there is by boat or plane. You have to plan early for an Isle Royale trip. It’s smart to get your National Parks pass before you arrive. Pets aren’t allowed, so we boarded
our faithful dog Leo in a kennel. There are several ferry options, but for our August 2017 trip, we took the Voyageur II ferry from Grand Portage. On the way to Rock Harbor on the east end of the island, it stops in Windigo on the west end and at several spots along the north side. On the return to Grand Portage from Rock Harbor,
The next morning, we plowed through the waves past the lone sentinel of the Rock of Ages lighthouse to Windigo. We stretched our legs on the dock during the short stop. Later, the ferry motored past the long straight northern shoreline of Isle Royale and Grace and I stood at the aft of the boat by the churning blue wake. A freshwater lake as big as the ocean with the mountains of the Canadian shoreline off to the north. This surreal setting gave us brand new sights and sounds, just a few hours from home in Duluth. The pleasant disorientation felt like a true adventure. We pulled into the secluded Rock Harbor marina and checked in at the lodge. We went for a short hike, which felt good after a lot of sitting. We looped to the west of Rock Harbor to Suzy’s Cave. The cave is the beginning of a sea arch carved thousands of years ago by the waves when the water levels were higher. The next day validated the cabin lodging choice. Strong wind blew torrents of rain from the south. We spent the day inside playing cards. While setting up rental ca-
Blueberries galore along the Stoll Trail right next to ancient copper pits.
A tired crew pauses inside Suzy’s Cave after a long ferryboat ride.
Everybody does a Bullwinkle impression after our moose encounter back at Rock Harbor marina.
Rabbit says goodbye to Grace as we leave Rock Harbor.
Floatplane over Tobin Harbor, Isle Royale National Park.
noes for the next day, I ran into a Duluth buddy who kayaked through the tempest from a campsite along the southern shore. He made it just in time to catch his Isle Royale Queen IV ferry back to Copper Harbor. Then, Mother Nature showed she’s still in charge. The ferry launched into the teeth of the gale. While we took a short walk, we saw the ferry return to Rock Harbor. When the boat went fast enough to make headway, it thrashed the passengers. When they tried a slower speed that didn’t punish the people, they were at a standstill, so they turned around.
Our second full day dawned overcast but calm. My son Sam and Shelley paddled an aluminum canoe away from the dock in Tobin Harbor on the north side of the narrow peninsula. Grace and I followed in a tandem kayak. The water was still and we saw floatplanes landing in the glassy smoothness. The water was clear as gin and we saw snails crawling along several feet below the surface. A loon swam right up to us before veering off, practice for the moose encounter later that day.
After paddling, we hiked the Stoll Trail to the east of Rock Harbor. We saw broad views of Lake Superior along the rugged shoreline. We found the copper mine pits where ancient people pounded the mineral out of small depressions in the ground. That day, our treasure right next to the pits was blueberries, not ore. We grazed like bears for a half hour before going to meet our moose. After retreating, we passed several wildflowers and the larger, more recent Smithwick Mine pit. The sun broke free and gave us a great sunset over Rock Harbor on our last night.
The next morning, we rode the ferry into the morning fog. We just barely saw the Rock Harbor Lighthouse through the mist as we passed the south shore of the island. On Isle Royale, we felt like we were on the other side of the world, even though we were in Lake Superior only a half day from Duluth. It was a five day experience, with only two full days on the island. But those days will echo for years like the wail of a loon.
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
23
By Breana Roy
Art Festivals
There are three big art festivals taking place this month, featuring a combined total of over 290 artists. First off is the Hovland Arts Festival, held July 3-4 at the Hovland Town Hall. Next up is the Grand Marais Arts Festival, held July 10-11. Last but not least, head to Ely for the Blueberry/Art Festival July 23-25. For more info on the festivals, check out our events section.
Melinda Wolff creates sustainable jewelry from reclaimed wood scraps from her husband’s wood shop. See more from her at the Grand Marais Arts Festival. | MELINDA WOLFF This hand-painted pottery piece, titled “The Fish Market” was created by Dennis McMahan. He will be at the Blueberry/Art Festival in Ely. | DENNIS MCMAHAN
Mike Denny of Good Wolf Bowls created this handturned bowl made from reclaimed Minnesota hardwood with a turquoise inlay. He will also be at the Blueberry/Art Festival. | MIKE DENNY Duluth artist Ashley Hise creates ceramic pieces, such as this light fixture, titled “Rising Water Lamp.” She will attend the Grand Marais Arts Festival. | ASHLEY HISE
Todd Hawkinson specializes in late 1800s jewelry making techniques, like this Edwardian filigree ruby pendant. He will be at the Hovland Arts Festival. | TODD HAWKINSON 24
JULY 2021
Grand Marais artists Rebecca and Ian Barrett of The Wilder Woodshop will be at the Grand Marais Arts Festival. These boards are from their Feather Chevron collection and are food-safe. | THE WILDER WOODSHOP
NORTHERN WILDS
[ABOVE] Palma Laky sources
clay from Continental Clay Co. in Minneapolis. | ASHLEY BREDEMUS [LEFT] A mug typically takes about
one pound of clay to make, while a serving bowl can take around 7 pounds of clay. | ASHLEY BREDEMUS For Hannah Palma Laky, a life as a ceramicist was not one that she imagined from a young age. | ASHLEY BREDEMUS
Hannah Palma Ceramics Pottery Inspired by Lake Superior CREATIVE SPACE: By Rae Poynter As many who are familiar with the North Shore would attest, the word “lake” can seem a haltingly insufficient term with which to describe the evocative, powerful force that is Lake Superior. With an almost indescribable draw, it is no coincidence that Superior’s shores have long been a source of deep inspiration for artists and creative souls. One such artist is Hannah Palma Laky, a Grand Marais ceramicist whose work is both rooted in and reflects the wild beauty of the North Shore. In a quiet studio near the shores of Superior, she works with earth to create everything from coffee mugs and soup bowls to luminaries and incense holders, each piece a homage to the wild spaces from where it came. For Palma Laky, a life as a ceramicist was not one that she imagined from a young age. Although she long had a love for art, she hesitated to study fine arts, uncertain whether she possessed enough natural talent. Instead, she began college studying art therapy and psychology. It wasn’t until a college course in pottery that she discovered her love for working
with clay, and began to build an interest in the art form that would continue with her for the rest of her life. “When I found pottery, I found that you go from not even being able to center clay to creating a form to developing your aesthetic. It truly is an art form of dedication, and you put in many hours and you get better,” Palma Laky said. “While there can be such a focus on having inborn talent, I would argue that the definition of an artist is not necessarily someone who is very gifted at art, but someone who has a need to make, and that is something that I feel is very true with me.” During college Palma Laky studied abroad in Costa Rica, and while she was there met her now-husband. She later moved to Costa Rica, and while not pursuing her interest in ceramics directly, she continued to foster a creative life through sketching and painting murals. When she and her family returned to Grand Marais— the town where she grew up—she began to make ceramics again, starting with selling her work at the local farmer’s market
and slowly but surely getting her name out there.
sanded the bottoms, she takes photos and schedules a publishing time for her site.
“I knew when I started that what I was selling wasn’t perfect, but it was getting better,” she said. “And that’s part of supporting an artist: you know that what you get today isn’t the same as what you’ll get in five years, since the work will continually get better.”
While Hannah Palma Laky’s love for the making process is apparent, on a deeper level her work is an extension of the groundedness she finds in her surroundings on Lake Superior, and the intentional care she puts into her work is something she hopes will be passed onto the users.
The bulk of Palma Laky’s work involves website restocks, where she will work intensively for four to six weeks to create enough ceramics for an online sale, often with seasonally-inspired themes. She sources clay from Continental Clay Co. in Minneapolis, and begins by kneading and weighing the clay for the piece that she is making. (A mug typically takes about one pound of clay to make, while a serving bowl can take around 7 pounds of clay.) She then spins each measured piece on the wheel to shape it into what she is making, and after that adds the stamps, signature and trim. Her particular style includes elements of Japanese woodblock printmaking, an art form she studied extensively in college.
“When your work is made with intention, it holds an energy that heals,” she said. “I believe in the energy you pass on to your work, and that energy infuses into what you’re making. I think it’s beautiful that you can take something from the ground and transform it into something that could be used for generations.”
After being formed, the clay has to dry out completely before it is loaded into the kiln for its first firing at about 1800 degrees. The first firing makes the body of clay more porous so it can better soak in the glaze. Palma Laky then unloads the kiln, mixes a bucket of glaze to glaze the pieces, and puts them back in the kiln for a nine-hour firing to about 2300 degrees. Once she has checked each piece and
Although Palma Laky’s path to becoming a full-time ceramicist by trade has not always been straightforward, her story shows the value that comes from living with intentionality and a willingness to live a creative life, in whatever form that may take. And while pursuing a creative life can feel daunting, Palma Laky said that following her intuition and choosing to live in abundance has made all the difference. “We’re all artists in one regard or another,” she said. “If you really love art and want to do it, just work at it. Art is accessible, and that’s what I like to share with people.” Hannah Palma Ceramics can be found on Facebook and Instagram, as well as online at: hannahpalma.com. NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
25
Get Fishing! The Fisherman's Picnic Annual July 31s-t 6 a.m. on o Aug, 8th n
BIG FISH CONTEST
BIG CHANGES to the 2021 Big Fish Contest!
SPONSORED
New tournament platform - Fish Donkey! Option for catch and release!
More Winners!
Enter the raffle drawing just by submittin g a catch! New Kids Tourn ament 16 an
BY:
Lake Trout • Salmon • Walleye • Brook Trout Northern • Small Mouth Bass
JUST SNAP A PHOTO TO ENTER! More info at BucksBigFish.com
d under, any sp
ecies
We’ll get you ready! LICENSES TACKLE
Little Cleo, Rapala, Berkley, Daredevil, Krocodile, Apex, Hot Spot
RODS/REELS
Shakespeare, Shimano, Daiwa, Okuma
LIVE BAIT
Night crawlers and minnows New filtration system for lively bait!
26
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
www.buckshardware.net · BIG CITY PRICES ... SMALL TOWN SERVICE 218-387-2280 · Open 7 Days A Week • Downtown Grand Marais
just go do it. There are permits required to harvest on state, federal and county land, and there can be other specific permissions needed. Native communities have their own traditions and etiquettes pertaining to harvests. If you are a craftsperson wanting to work with birch bark, talking with private land owners that you know, and others who are cutting trees for firewood or other uses are a great place to start. Working with bark found on the ground is also an option and does not require special permits or permissions. With bark from dead trees, the only way to know if that piece is suitable for use is to try it. Does it crack when bent? Is it pliable? A little heat or warm water can encourage bark to bend smoothly.
For birch bark basket makers, summer is the season for harvesting bark. Shown here are some birch bark baskets made by Emily Derke. | SUBMITTED
Working with Birch Bark BEHIND THE CRAFT: Emily Derke For birch bark basket makers, summer is a season for harvesting bark. Many people recognize the distinctive look of the white papery layer of birch bark and know the trees by name. Baskets, canoes, shelters, containers and numerous other useful items have long been made by the Indigenous people of this area using birch bark. Harvesting bark seems to be one of the most enticing parts of the basket making process for many people. Picture a hot, mid-summer day. You pull up in your car to the location where you will be harvesting, and the vehicle is surrounded by a swarm of horseflies as you come to a stop. The horseflies don’t seem to bother you much—they are more attracted to the car that had just been moving. As you proceed towards the woods, the brushy understory is dense and hard to move through. The mosquitoes slowly start to realize you are there, and soon their persistent buzz is followed by countless bites. This is one of those scenes where I have to laugh a little at myself. I’ll get up in the early morning to beat the heat of the day, and spend hours working so hard to get the materials I need, while only thinking fondly of the experience, and grateful to participate in it. It really is a magical time. Everything in the woods is so full of life. Many of the plants in northern Minnesota are only in leaf for about half of the year, and this time of mid-summer feels as if all the plants, insects and animals are doing all they can to flourish. Walking through the same woods in the winter can feel quite silent. The same plants and insects are all still there, but they keep themselves tucked in until the warm weather returns. As I walk through the woods, looking at each tree, I determine which ones look suitable for basket making. I test the bark
on a few trees to see what it’s like. Birch trees can have vastly different characteristics, even within a close area. I check a little piece to see if the bark is thick or thin, or if it pulls into layers easily, or if it is brittle when bent in different directions. I often teach birch bark basketry, so each summer, I harvest the bark that I will use throughout the year for workshops and for my own work. The bark gets stored in a cool place, away from the sun and can stay pliable for years under the right conditions. Birch bark is unique in the way it is harvested. The outer bark layer separates from the tree, and the inner bark stays put. There are many little details and considerations when harvesting bark in order to do it in a way that does not cause too much injury to the tree. The most common question is “does it kill the tree?” The answer is no, not if it is harvested properly, but this will always be a very big event for the tree that it must heal from. There are ways to help cause minimal damage to the tree, with care and knowledge. The area where the outer bark was taken can eventually heal over, a fascinating process that takes years. I actually love seeing trees that have been harvested years ago, and are still big and healthy, with a new layer of bark forming. The new bark that develops over the harvested area has an entirely different look to it. I like to wonder what became of that piece of bark, and who may have harvested it. The “second growth” bark changes each year and very slowly starts to look more like the rest of the tree, though it will always have different characteristics. I think it is best to harvest bark with an intention for use, and certainly along with someone who is experienced. There are many rules and regulations that apply to the harvest of birch bark. You can’t
Birch bark basketry traditions exist within the boreal forested areas around the world, and are practiced by people who live near the birch trees. Learning to work with bark from an experienced teacher is one of the best ways to learn more about the local landscape, the characteristics of the trees, and the traditions in the area. Emily Derke is a basket maker in the Artisan Development program at North House Folk School, where traditional craft is taught on the shore of Lake Superior.
CROSS RIVER HERITAGE CENTER MUSEUM & GIFT SHOP Open thru October 16, 2021
FEATURED EXHIBITS: CANADIAN MOUNTIE PAINTINGS - OJIBWE CULTURE —SAVE THE DATE—
JUL
10
Saturday, 2 pm
—ON DISPLAY THIS SEASON—
Alta McQuatters
Ojibwe Culture Feature Presentation Tribute to Ruth “Ma” Parent & struggles of being Native in the West End
(Alta is a lifelong Lutsen trapper, historian, and Elder of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa)
Free Presentation, Schroeder Town Hall, 124 Cramer Road
AUG
21
All Day
John Schroeder Day
Community Celebration Schroeder Fire Dept. Pancake Breakfast 8-10 am Town Hall, 124 Cramer Road Cross River Heritage Center Museum & Walking Tours 10 am-4 pm Arnold Friberg (American, 1913-2021) SAHS 25th Anniversary Feature the Right, 1963 Event at Schroeder Town Hall 5-8 pm Maintain Oil on Canvas
ARTISTS GALLERY
Featured Photographer
Travis Novitsky
Member of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
Reprinted with permission of Regents of the University of Minnesota for its Tweed Museum of Art, University of Minnesota Duluth, Gift of Potlatch Corporation. This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.”
Visit Cook County Information Explore MN Welcome Center 24/7 Outdoor Kiosk
Hours: Wed & Thu 10 – 4, Fri 10 – 6, Sat 10 - 4 Closed Sun-Mon-Tue & holidays 7932 W Hwy 61, Schroeder • 218-663-7706 crossriverheritage.org NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
27
Fisherman’s Picnic August 5-8 Grand Marais, MN Please act responsibly and follow Covid19 regulations including social distancing and mask wearing where necessary.
WEDNESDAY, August 4 WISE Buffet in a Box. Covid safe event. Pre-order on our website, www.wisenorth.org. Pick up at Cook County High School. Pick-up times: lunch 11:30 am-1:30 pm, supper 5:00-7:00 pm. Boxed meals have our traditional, homemade favorites. $20 for meal including Lindquist Fishcakes, Swedish Meatballs, gravy and baked ham.
THURSDAY, August 5 9 AM-3 PM Crazy Daze Sales – visit local merchants around town 9 AM-4 PM Cook County Market – E Wisconsin St. 10 AM-5 PM Kids Rides open – Senior Center Parking Lot – 10 N Broadway 11 AM Fishburger Stand opens – Harbor Park 11 AM- UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” – Rules and new daily clues at Dairy Queen, $100 prize to the first person to find it. Sponsored by Dairy Queen 11 AM-12:30 PM Rox n Soul – Harbor Park Stage 1-2:30 PM Kenna Rose – Harbor Park Stage 1-4 PM Memories of Growing Up and Vacationing in Cook County – presentation by Dan Helmerson, Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, 115 W Wisconsin St.
3-6 PM Common Ground – Harbor Park Stage 5 PM Dairy Queen Cornhole Tournament. Stop by Dairy Queen to sign up and see official rules.” 7-10 PM Street Dance – 4 Shore – Harbor Park Stage
FRIDAY, August 6
11 AM-2 PM Bally Blacksmith Demonstrations – Bally’s Blacksmith Shop, corner of Broadway and 1st St. 11:30 AM World’s Best Donut Bingo – Donut Shop, corner of Wisconsin St and Broadway Ave. Sponsored by the World’s Best Donut Shop
NOON Minnow Races St and Broadway Ave.
– Beaver House, Corner of Wisconsin
11 AM- UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” – Rules and new daily clues at Dairy Queen, $100 prize to the first person to find it. Sponsored by Dairy Queen
3 PM DQ Upsidedownright Thick Blizzard Race Maximum of 10 teams with up to 4 racers each, register at Dairy Queen prior to race - 2nd Ave W. Sponsored by Dairy Queen
11 AM Fishburger Stand opens – Harbor Park
3 PM-4:30 PM CCHS Alumni Baseball Game registration, $30 fee includes jersey – Cook County High School Ball Field 3-6 PM Splints - Harbor Park Stage 5 PM CCHS Alumni Baseball Game – Cook County High School Ball Field, behind school 6-6:30 PM Minnesota State Loon Calling Championship – Preliminary Round – Harbor Park Stage 7-10 PM Street Dance with Pete K and Friends – Harbor Park stage
SATURDAY, August 7 Fisherman’s Picnic Trail Run Pincushion Mountain Trails – 2mi. north of Grand Marais off the Gunflint Trail, Co. Rd 12. No race day registration. Pre-register at https://fishpicrun. brownpapertickets.com through Aug 6th until 6 pm. Registration Fees: Kids run – $10, Non-competitive 3-mile run or walk - $20, 5-mile run or race-walk $30 8:00 AM: Packet pickup at Pincushion chalet 9:00 AM: Kids Races : Age 8 and Under – 1/4 Mile, Age 9-12 – 1 Mile 9:45 AM: 5-mile Run, 5-mile Race Walk 9:50 AM: Non-competitive 3-mile run or walk 9 AM-4 PM Cook County Market – E. Wisconsin St. 9 AM-10 AM Zumba Class – Harbor Park, Sponsored by YMCA 10 AM-5 PM Vendor and Craft Show – 1st Av W.
11 AM-5 PM Vendor and Craft Show – 1st Ave W 11:45 AM Fish Contest Winners Announced – Harbor Park Stage NOON-1 PM Briand Morrison - Harbor Park 1 PM Fisherman’s Picnic Parade, Downtown Grand Marais. Route starts at Elementary School Park Lot, down Broadway Ave., right on Wisconsin St. and ends at Hwy 61. 2-2:30 PM Briand Morrison - Harbor Park 2:45-3:15 PM AAD Shrine Drum & Bugle Corps., Duluth – Harbor Park 3:30 PM Lion’s Fish Toss information booth)
6-7 PM Prize Winners Posted, Info Booth – corner of Wisconsin St. and 1st Ave W Prizes can be claimed at Info Booth on
Sunday night. Starting at 10 am Monday morning prizes can be picked up at the Cook County News Herald.
Big Fish Contest* JULY 31 – AUGUST 7– Bucks & Northern Wilds Big Fish Contest – You must have your catches submitted to our new tournament platform, Fish Donkey, by NOON on Saturday August 8th. More tournament winners, raffle winners, and a new category for kids 16 and under! Info at BucksBigFish.com.
*
*Get
Your collectible button!
10:30 AM-12 PM Kids Tractor Pull (ages 4-7) – Wisconsin St. Sponsored by Mike’s Holiday Station Store and Bernick’s Pepsi 11 AM Fishburger Stand opens – Harbor Park 11 AM- UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” – Rules and new daily clues at Dairy Queen, $100 prize to the first person to find it. Sponsored by Dairy Queen 11 AM-12:30 PM Joe Paulik – Harbor Park Stage 11 AM-2 PM Bally Blacksmith Demonstrations – Bally’s Blacksmith Shop, corner of Broadway and 1st St. NOON Minnow Races Beaver House – Corner of Broadway Ave and Wisconsin St. 12:00 PM Cross Cut Saw Competition Registration – Lions info booth – Wisconsin St. & 1st Ave W 12:30 PM Cross Cut Competition – Wisconsin St.
Sponsored by Hedstrom Lumber Co
1-2:30 PM Josh Schmidt – Harbor Park Stage 2:30 PM Citizens of the Year Award – Harbor Park Stage
3-5:30 PM Brother’s in Arms – Harbor Park Stage
10 AM-5 PM Vendor and Craft Show – 1st Ave W.
4:30 PM Rock Skipping Contest (all ages) – Harbor Park
10 AM-5 PM Kiddy Rides open – Senior Center Parking Lot – 10 N Broadway
5 PM Grand Marais Harbor Rock Painting Contest winners announced – Harbor Park Stage Sponsored by Joynes Ben Franklin
11 AM Fishburger Stand Opens – Harbor Park
5:30-6 PM Minnesota State Loon Calling Championship Finals – Harbor Park Stage
Sponsored by Mike’s Holiday Station Store and Bernick’s Pepsi
– Wisconsin St. (sign up at Lions
5 PM Grand Prize Drawing $10,000.00, Info Booth – corner of Wisconsin St. and 1st Ave W
10 AM-5 PM Kiddy Rides open Senior Center Parking Lot – 10 N Broadway
9 AM-4 PM Cook County Market – E Wisconsin St
NORTHERN WILDS
SUNDAY, August 8 9:30 AM Waterfront Worship – Harbor Park Stage
2-3:30 PM Kids Tractor Pull (ages 8-11) – Wisconsin St.
JULY 2021
9:45 PM Fireworks over the Harbor
2 PM Free Guided Tour of the Cook County School Campus Includes Elementary, Middle and High Schools. Meet at the Main Entrance. Alumni and visitors welcome.
: , Vis it Fo e l u d r th he e Most up-to -date sc
28
7-10 PM Street Dance – The Evening Stars – Harbor Park Stage
1-2:30 PM Portage Band – Harbor Park Stage
9 AM-3 PM Crazy Daze Sales – All over town visit local merchants
11 AM- UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” – Rules and new daily clues at Dairy Queen, $100 prize to the first person to find it. Sponsored by Dairy Queen
6:00 PM Cutest Puppy Contest – Harbor Park Stage,
sponsored by Lake County Veterinary Clinic
ea ted
Cr
2 PM Free Guided Tour of the Cook County School Campus Includes Elementary, Middle and High Schools. Meet at the Main Entrance. Alumni and visitors welcome.
11 AM-12:30 PM Bug Lite – Harbor Park Stage
hy
92 nd Annual
by oto Bruc e Johnson Ph
p gra
It’s your pass to participate in events all weekend long!
buy a raffle ticket
10,
tickets $5 at local businesses and from Grand Marais lion’s Club members - They’re the ones in the yellow vests
www.gr an dmar aislions .c om
Head to the Grand Marais harbor for the North Shore Water Festival, held July 16-18. | SUBMITTED
THE ART OF RECIPROCITY
Thru Sept. 30 Sean Connaughty’s socially engaged art projects address anthropogenic impacts on the global ecology and humanity’s place within that system. Last month, Sean completed a site-specific installation at Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Schroeder, which is on display through Sept. 30. This exhibition is a partnership between Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center and Grand Marais Art Colony. To learn more, visit: grandmaraisartcolony.org or sugarloafnorthshore.org.
HOVLAND ARTS FESTIVAL
July 3-4 The 15th Annual Hovland Arts Festival, held at the Hovland Town Hall, will showcase over 30 artists, featuring everything from jewelry, paintings and pottery to carvings, photography and fiber arts. Artists include Jim Vannet, Marcie McIntire, Lou Pignolet, Julie Kean, Terry Lewis, Rachel Rae, Jo Wood, Howard Hedstrom, Joan Farnam, and more. There will also be live music and food provided. The festival will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. both days. For more info, visit: hovlandartsfestival.com.
FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES
ANCIENT CEDARS TRAIL TRAVELING EXHIBIT
July-Sept. Visit the Art Corner in Ely throughout the month of July for a multi-media traveling exhibit titled “Ancient Cedars Trail: An Artistic Exploration 2021.” The exhibit consists of a collaboration of regional artists in support of preserving and protecting critical habitat within the new Ancient Cedars Trail in Tower. Participating artists include Jim DeVries, Wendy Rouse, Pamela Davis, Jordan Gawboy (artwork show above), Nancy Ensley, Louise Laakso Lundin, Jeff Argir, Linda Glisson, Margie Helstrom, Nan Stubenvoll, and Sue Rauschenfels. The exhibit will then be displayed at the Borealis Art Guild in Hibbing throughout August, and at Northwoods Friends of the Arts throughout September. To learn more about the exhibit, email: srauschenfels@live.com.
July 4, Sunday Head to Tofte for a day of family-friendly fun, including food vendors, a beer garden and live music by Cook County’s Most Wanted, all starting at 11 a.m. Food vendors include the Lutsen Volunteer Fire Department with their fish burgers, and the Tofte Volunteer Fire Department will host the beer garden until 5 p.m., or until supplies run out. There will also be a parade held at noon; lineup is at 11:30 a.m. The entire Tofte Park Road will be utilized to prevent crowding and encourage social distancing. Masks are encouraged when social distancing cannot be maintained with other groups. And don’t miss the fireworks show at 10 p.m. (weather permitting). Other places to watch the fireworks along the North Shore include Grand Marais, Two Harbors, and at Duluth’s Fourth Fest in Bayfront Festival Park.
This year’s Two Harbors Heritage Days parade will take place on July 10 at 1 p.m. | SUBMITTED
HERITAGE DAYS
July 8-11 The annual Two Harbors Heritage Days features four days of family fun. Activities include live music and entertainment, a medallion hunt, a lutefisk toss, arts and craft vendors, helicopter rides, a classic car cruise, pancake breakfasts, a monster truck show, tours of the Edna G, a street dance, and more. A kiddie parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, followed by free ice cream at the bandshell in Thomas Owens Park and a concert by the Two Harbors City Band. On Saturday is a car show at 3 p.m. at Danny’s Auto. Also on Saturday is the Heritage Days Parade at 1 p.m. For a full list of events, visit: facebook.com/twoharborsheritagedays.
BAY DAYS
July 9-11 This year’s Bay Days festival, held in Silver Bay, is themed “Camp Bay Days” and features a bean bag tournament, street dance, golf scramble, live music, prize raffles, craft and food vendors, a book sale, a magic show, an escape room, and more. A parade will take place on Friday at 6 p.m., followed by DJ Houley and Mo on the Main Stage and fireworks at dusk. The 15th Annual Bay to Bay Run/ Walk will take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday (registration required), and the Classic Car and Motorcycle Show will be held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sunday in the Zups parking lot. For a full schedule, visit: bay-days.org.
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
29
WEST END GARDEN CLUB FLOWER SHOW
Open Fridays & Saturdays • 10am - 5pm
July 17, Saturday After taking last year off due to the pandemic, the West End Garden Club (representing the communities of Schroeder, Tofte and Lutsen), will hold their annual flower show on Saturday, July 17 this year. Held from 1-5 p.m. at the Birch Grove Community Center in Tofte, this year’s theme is Music of Flowers and Hues. In addition to the incredibly creative floral arrangements of club members and the public, there will be a local Master Gardener available to answer questions and live music by the Grace Notes.
Sharon Frykman fused glass
Brittany Foster silver & brass jewelry
“… a bit off the beaten path and definitely worth the visit!”
Bryan Hansel photography
GRAND MARAIS ARTS FESTIVAL
July 10-11 Enjoy the work of over 60 local and regional juried artists at the annual Grand Marais Arts Festival, featuring everything from glass, sculpture, photography and ceramics, to printmaking, jewelry, wood and fiber arts. Artists include Natalija Walbridge, Emily Wick, Jonathan Walburg, Neil Sherman, Barry Sands, Stanley Leonard, Mary Beth Garmoe, and Kelsey Kuno. While normally held in downtown Grand Marais, this year’s festival will be held in the ISD 166 parking lots (101 West 5th Street) due to the downtown road construction. Event parking will be available at the adjacent lots of the Cook County Community Center and the YMCA, as well as street parking. The festival will take place from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, visit: grandmaraisartcolony.org.
Natalie Sobanja clay pottery
BAYFRONT REGGAE & WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL
July 17, Saturday The annual Bayfront Reggae and World Music Festival is back this year. Held at Bayfront Park in Duluth, the annual festival is a celebration of world music with artists who spread the message of love, hope, and equality for everyone. This year’s lineup includes Anthony B, Third World, Kranium, Mr. Killa, Dynamq, DJ Sound of Fujun, and the International Reggae All Stars. The gates will open at noon, rain or shine. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. To learn more, visit: bayfrontworldmusic.com.
LAKE SUPERIOR SALMON CLASSIC
July 17-18 The annual Lake Superior Salmon Classic Fishing Tournament, hosted by the Silver Bay PTSO, will take place in the Silver Bay Marina. There are three contest divisions, with five place winners per division: coho salmon, king salmon, and lake trout. The entry fee is $20 per person. There will also be a raffle drawing with cash prizes, totaling $1,500, as well as other prizes; tickets are $5. Raffle tickets and tournament registration can be purchased at the Silver Bay Marina and at various Lake County businesses. To learn more, visit: silverbay-marina. com/salmon-classic.
BLUEBERRY/ART FESTIVAL
Paul Bondhus stone sculpture
at Frykman Art Studio
Hwy 61
30
JULY 2021
Hwy 7
Co 44
Co 45
Hwy 7 Grand Marais
NORTHERN WILDS
NORTH SHORE WATER FESTIVAL
July 16-18 Head to the Grand Marais harbor for a weekend on the water, hosted by Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply. This year’s activities include small mini-tours for kayaks and standup paddle boards in the harbor, watercraft and camping equipment on display with reps available to answer questions, and author Natalie Warren will be at Stone Harbor signing her book Hudson Bay Bound. There will also be live music by Wild Mountain Thyme in Harbor Park from 4-7:30 p.m. on Friday and from Brotherless Arms from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday. To learn more, visit: facebook.com/stoneharbor.
July 23-25 Ely’s signature summer event is back. While things are looking different this year, the Ely Chamber of Commerce is working hard to create a safe and enjoyable art and craft festival, and this year marks the 40th running of the festival. Held at Whiteside Park, the festival includes roughly 200 juried artisans and a large variety of food. Find everything from wood and leather products to photography, paintings, jewelry, pottery, metal and glass art, and more. The festival will take place from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. To learn more, visit: ely.org/ events.
FESTIVAL BY THE LAKE
July 24, Saturday Taste of Duluth has changed its name to Festival by the Lake. Held from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth, the festival was created to celebrate the rich, cultural heritage of the area and features food, live music, vendors, shopping, demonstrations, arts and crafts, beer and more. New this year will be strolling musicians, as well as a kid’s area featuring fun for the younger attendees. There will also be plenty of ethnic and American food offerings, including sample sizes. Admission is free for this family-friendly festival. To learn more, visit: festivalbythelake.com.
JULY NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Thru July 17 (Not on Sundays) Wet Your Paddle on the Gunflint Trail Various Outfitters, Gunflint Trail, visitcookcounty.com/wetyourpaddle
Thru July 18 Anna Repke: Fiber Arts Exhibit Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, johnsonheritagepost.org
Thru July 31 Fresh Perspectives: Secondary School Online Art Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca
Thru Aug. 31 But It Was Still There Exhibit: Moira Bateman, Annie Hejny, Moheb Soliman & Nick Wroblewski Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
Thru Sept. 6 Chesley Antoinette: Tignon Duluth Art Institute, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org
Thru Sept. 12 Piitwewetam: Making is Medicine Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca Tia Keobounpheng: Defuse Duluth Art Institute, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org
Thru Sept. 27 Karlyn Atkinson Berg: Nature Re-envisioned and Reality Transformed Duluth Art Institute, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org
Thru Sept. 30 The Art of Reciprocity Outdoor Exhibit by Sean Connaughty Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center, Schroeder, grandmaraisartcolony.org
Thru Oct. 16 Tweed Museum of Art’s Royal Canadian “Mountie” Paintings & Ojibwe Cultural Heritage Exhibits Cross River Heritage Center, Schroeder, crossriverheritage.org
July 1, Thursday Canada Day
July 1-31 Ancient Cedars Trail: An Artistic Exploration 2021 Exhibit 10 a.m. The Art Corner, Ely, srauschenfels@live.com Photography at the Rock Exhibit: Nicholas Narog (Meet and Greet July 3 & July 31 at 10 a.m.) Split Rock Lighthouse Visitor Center, Two Harbors, mnhs.org/splitrock
July 2, Friday
Bayfront Country Jam 4:30 p.m. Bayfront
Festival Park, Duluth, bayfrontcountryjam.com
July 2-Sept. 5 John A. Spelman III Exhibit: Artist & Printmaker: From Appalachia to Minnesota’s North Shore Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, johnsonheritagepost.org
July 3, Saturday Motorcycle Poker Run 10 a.m. Starts at Hungry Jack Lodge, Gunflint Trail, grandportage.com Party in the Park with Hairball 6 p.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, facebook.com/bayfrontfestivalpark
Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concerts 6:30 p.m. Grand Marais, michaelmonroemusic.com Jason Fladager & Friends 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com
July 3-4 Hovland Arts Festival 10 a.m. Hovland Town Hall, hovlandartsfestival.com
July 4, Sunday Independence Day Tofte 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks 11 a.m. (Parade at Noon) Tofte, toftemn.com Fourth Fest 4 p.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, visitduluth.com/fourthfest 4th of July Fireworks Grand Marais Harbor, visitcookcounty.com/events Bug Dope 5:30 p.m. Birch Terrace Supper Club, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events
July 7, Wednesday Sidewalk Shuffle 5k 11 a.m. Lakewalk, Duluth, duluthymca.org
July 7-9 Sidewalk Days Festival 9 a.m. Downtown Duluth, downtownduluth.com
July 8-11 Heritage Days Two Harbors, facebook.com/twoharborsheritagedays
July 9, Friday
Kevin Buck 5 p.m. Birch Terrace Supper Club, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events
July 9-10
Josh Cleveland 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com
July 9-11 Bay Days Silver Bay, bay-days.org
July 10, Saturday Bienvenue Coffee Fest 9 a.m. The Depot, Duluth, facebook.com/duluthartinstitute Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Marketplace 10 a.m. Masonic Lodge, Duluth, nicegirlsofthenorth.com Indigenous Food & Art Market 11 a.m. One Roof Parking Lot, Duluth, indigenousfirst.org Ojibwe Exhibit Premiere with Presentation by Alta McQuatters 2 p.m. Schroeder Town Hall, crossriverheritage.org
July 10-11 Grand Marais Arts Festival Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
July 11, Sunday Wondrous Webs Presentation by Larry Weber 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org
July 14, Wednesday Author Talk with Tracey Cullen & Scott Husby 5 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, johnsonheritagepost.org
July 15, Thursday Animal Allies Walk for Animals 4 p.m. Leif Erikson Park, Duluth, animalallies.net
July 15-25 Xanadu 7:30 p.m. Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org
July 16-17
Rich Lewis Band 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com
July 16-18 North Shore Water Festival Downtown Harbor Park, Grand Marais, stoneharborws.com
July 17, Saturday Chalk.A.Lot Festival Two Harbors, twoharborsarts.com Annual Rummage Sale 9 a.m. Lutsen Lutheran Church, shexumplatz@gmail.com Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival Noon, Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, bayfrontworldmusic.com West End Garden Club Flower Show 1 p.m. Birch Grove Community Center, Tofte Festival of India 3 p.m. CLE Grounds, Thunder Bay, indiafesttbay.com Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concerts 6:30 p.m. Grand Marais, michaelmonroemusic.com
July 17-18 Lake Superior Salmon Classic 4 a.m. Silver Bay Marina, silverbay-marina.com
July 18, Sunday The Story of Quetico’s Longest Serving Interior Ranger: Janice Matichuk 2 p.m. ChikWauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org
July 19-23 Member Appreciation Week North Shore Federal Credit Union, northshorefcu.org/member-appreciation
July 22-25 The Birthday Club 7 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, grandmaraisplayhouse.com
July 23, Friday
Bug Dope! 5 p.m. Birch Terrace Supper Club, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events
July 23-25 Blueberry/Art Festival Ely, ely.org/events
July 24, Saturday Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event 9 a.m. Cook County Recycling Center, Grand Marais, (218) 387-3630 Festival by the Lake 11 a.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, festivalbythelake.com Indigenous Food & Art Market 11 a.m. One Roof Parking Lot, Duluth, indigenousfirst.org Celebration of Life for Joan Drury 3 p.m. On the Beach at Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, facebook.com/drurylanebooks
July 30-31
Space Monkey Mafia 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com
July 31, Saturday All Pints North 3:30 p.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, mncraftbrew.org/events
July 31-August 7 Big Fish Contest Cook County, buckshardware.net
August 5-8 Fisherman’s Picnic Grand Marais, facebook.com/grandmaraislionsclub
WEEKLY EVENTS Tuesdays Downtown Farmers’ Market (Starts July 13) 11 a.m. Gitchi Ode’ Akiing, Duluth, downtownduluth.com Chester Creek Concert Series 7 p.m. Chester Park, Duluth, duluthmn.gov/parks
Wednesdays Free USFS Nature Program 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org Thunder Bay Country Market 3:30 p.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca Live Music in the Park 6 p.m. City Park on River Street, Cook, MN
Thursdays Local Food Market 4:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais Finland Farmers Market 5 p.m. Clair Nelson Community Center, Finland, finlandfarmersmarket.com Date Night at the Winery with Live Music by Gordon Thorne 7 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us
Fridays Movies in the Park Leif Erikson Park, Duluth, facebook.com/greaterdowntowncouncil
Saturdays Thunder Bay Country Market 8 a.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca Cook County Market 10 a.m. Senior Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ccfarmandcraft Muffin Man Story Hour for Kids 11 a.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, facebook.com/drurylanebooks Harbor History Tour (Weather Permitting) 1 p.m. Cook County Historical Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org Live Music Birch Terrace Supper Club, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events
Sundays
Weekend Wine Down Music 3 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us Music by the Lake 4 p.m. Skyport Lodge, Grand Marais, skyportlodge.com
July 29, Thursday
Kenna Rose 5 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
31
Buy Any DQ Item Get Any DQ Item
Any Two Blizzards
Off regularly priced item of equal or lesser value. Excludes $5 Lunch, $6 Lunch, DQ Cakes, and Take Home Boxes of Novelties. Not valid with any other coupons or specials. Limit 1 coupon, 1 per customer. Limit 1 per coupon. Void if copied. DQ logo property of AM.DQCorp Minneapolis, MN, 2011. Expires 12/31/2021. Grand Marais, MN and JULY Two Harbors, MN locations only.
Off regularly priced item of equal or lesser value. Excludes $5 Lunch, $6 Lunch, DQ Cakes, and Take Home Boxes of Novelties. Not valid with any other coupons or specials. Limit 1 coupon, 1 per customer. Limit 1 per coupon. Void if copied. DQ logo property of AM.DQCorp Minneapolis, MN, 2011. Expires 12/31/2021. Grand Marais, MN and JULY Two Harbors, MN locations only.
1/2 Off
32
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
8
$
50 (sm or med)
RT
SEA
SO
LA 530 7th Ave
(Limited food menu)
VIEW DIN ING
120 W Hwy 61
Two Harbors
R
Grand Marais
FOU
Two Locations
KE
E SON R
The North Shore Dish Friends, Family and Food Trucks By Chuck Viren
Food trucks have been gaining in popularity for years, in part because of their synergistic relationship with taprooms. Then during the pandemic, takeout became the primary way to eat out and more food trucks began popping up. Their mobility and take-out windows made them a popular option for customers; their relative simplicity made them an attractive option for those who wanted to get into the restaurant business. I interviewed three such start-ups along the North Shore. I found this business model also provided an opportunity to include friends and family, a friendly environment, and innovative takes on some classic foods. David Fitch and Cory Netland of UpDawg food truck in Duluth met and became friends in the Marching Band at UMD where both were studying music education. They also shared a background in the food service industry. Netland has always loved cooking and had experience helping his grandparents start a restaurant. Fitch began by washing dishes and rose to general manager in the restaurant business. He loves the service and hospitality aspects of the business. They got the idea to go into business together a year and a half ago and have been working toward that goal while maintaining their day jobs. They bought a retired Frito-Lays delivery truck and have been working on the buildout ever since, relying on YouTube videos for technical advice. Their truck should be ready to roll by the time this issue goes to press. Their idea is to treat the hot dog as a blank canvass and let their creativity push the boundaries of what can be put on one. Nothing is off limits. In addition to their creative approach to hot dogs, they want their customers to have a fun and engaging experience. Their vibe is a bit goofy and off the wall, and if everyone is having fun, they will consider their efforts a success. In addition to the build-out of their truck, they have been developing innovative hot dog creations. Their Big Papa Dawg, for example, was inspired by jalapeño poppers. Their all-beef dog reclines in its bun atop a bed of jalapeño cream cheese spread and is topped with melted sharp cheddar, bacon, parmesan bread crumbs, spicy chipotle ranch and fresh jalapeños. Their MacDaddy Dawg is smothered in creamy mac and cheese and topped
David Fitch [LEFT] and Cory Netland [RIGHT] are the owners of the UpDawg food truck, which features innovative hot dog creations. Their menu includes the MacDaddy Dawg (smothered in mac and cheese), Big Papa Dawg (inspired by jalapeno poppers) and the Minneso-Dawg (featuring Top of the Tater sauce). | UPDAWG NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
33
museum and nature center
Explore the Chik-Wauk Campus this summer! • Temporary Exhibit: The Powell Family • Kids nature activities • Hiking trails, picnic area, wildlife viewing • USFS Programming every Wed. 2-3 pm
Sunday Presentations Larry Weber
Sunday, July 11, 2–3 pm
Joe Friedrichs
Sunday, July 18, 2–3 pm
Voyageur Weekend
Sunday, July 31, All Day Event
Na-cho Bizness features a variety of nachos, burritos and burrito bowls. | NA-CHO BIZNESS with parmesan bread crumbs and crumbly bacon. The Minneso-Dawg includes a dill pickle spear, melted cheddar cheese, Top of the Tater sauce, crushed potato chips, bacon bits and chives. You can find more of their hot dog innovations on their Facebook page. Their menu will feature five or six of their most popular dawgs and a rotation of new varieties. They have also teamed with Superior Small Batch to provide non-meat options. They plan to create a rotating schedule of venues for their truck and will also be available for private events. Check their Facebook page for updates.
• Museum • Nature Center • Watercraft Building • Cabin Exhibit
Open Now! 10 am-5 pm
• Admission fee • • Please respect COVID protocols • 28 Moose Pond Drive, Grand Marais 55 miles up the Gunfl fliint Trail (Hwy 12).
Roma Clarin is a long-time resident of Two Harbors and has been working at Betty’s Pies for 21 years. When her husband retired, she thought it would be fun to try a food truck, and to keep the business in the family. She works the truck Tosty Roma’s with her nieces and nephews and hopes that someday she can pass the business on to them. She chose to focus on serving up
South of the Border C · a · f · e
Breakfast Served All Day Lunch • Homemade Soups
We’re Open Before the Fish Bite! Open 5 am - 2 pm Everyday!
218-388-9915
gunfl fliinthistory.org 34
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Located at the stop light in Grand Marais
218-387-1505
The Na-cho Bizness food truck can be found on various days in Silver Bay or in Two Harbors. | NA-CHO BIZNESS a classic hot meal: grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. It’s a form of comfort food that nearly everyone loves. She uses an English muffin bread for her sandwiches and pairs this with a creamy tomato soup. Other menu items include grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and Ruth’s Vegetarian burgers and meatballs. She also rotates in a variety of soup options such as potato leek soup, veggie soup and meatball soup. The tomato soup is always on the menu. She will occasionally introduce other sandwich varieties. For example, this spring she offered an egg salad sandwich with wild leeks (ramps). Based in Two Harbors, her food truck can often be found at Castle Danger Brewery and every Saturday at the Farmers’ Market at Callies Place. She also parks her truck at the old Shopko parking lot and the AmericInn. You can check her Facebook page for locations, times and menu items.
A bit up the shore in Silver Bay, Amy Goerdt found herself at a professional crossroads. A bank manager at Wells Fargo, she had moved to Alabama to work at a bank there. When she returned to Silver Bay, the Wells Fargo there had closed. She looked into opening a restaurant, but opted for a food truck instead. She wanted to do something different, something for the community. Within two months she had purchased a food truck and was fully licensed. Na-cho Bizness was born. She started by practicing on her family and then began doing events in the community. Hers is also a family-run business involving her children and their cousins. She has been in business for three years and has gotten progressively busier. The menu started with different varieties of nachos and has expanded to include burritos and burrito bowls. Their most popular items include their Nacho Daddy, a spicy burrito or burrito bowl with cilantro lime rice, black beans, carnitas pork, queso,
Organic, Local & Natural Groceries Fresh Bakery Goods Hot Coffee & Cold Drinks Grab & Go Deli Wellness Aisle
Open 7 Days a Week 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Based in Two Harbors, Toasty Roma’s owner Roma Clarin works the truck with her nieces and nephews. Their menu focuses on hot sandwiches and soups. They also serve cheeseburgers, vegetarian burgers and meatballs. | TOASTY ROMA’S shredded cheese, pico de gallo, red hot salsa, jalapeños, sour cream, lettuce, and guacamole. A less spicy option is the Nacho Mamma, with cilantro lime rice, black beans, carnitas pork, queso, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, corn salsa, sour cream, lettuce, and guacamole. For the nacho lovers, there is the Nacho Cousin, which combines corn tortilla chips, carnitas, chicken, queso, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, salsa verde, lettuce, sour cream, and guacamole. For those with a large appetite, there is The Moose. This is a giant burrito bowl with double the meat and all the fixings.
Na-cho Bizness can be found on various days in Silver Bay in the J & H Auto parking lot, the Adventure Park, or in Two Harbors in the Napa Auto parking lot. She also does special events along the shore. Her schedule can be found on her Facebook page. Friends, family, and fun are the inspirations for those dishing creative takes on old favorite cuisines along the North Shore.
g n i n i D
Shop Online for Next Day Curbside Pick Up! Monday - Friday Shop at: cookcounty.coop Where Community Health is our Greatest Wealth!
20 East First Street Grand Marais, MN cookcounty.coop 218.387.2503
Find Local
SCAN FOR DINING
VisitCookCounty.com
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
35
The Power of Story By Hartley Newell-Acero & Amy Schmidt We make sense of our lives by telling stories. Some stories we tell only to ourselves. Our thoughts are a continuous internal narration that allows us to organize our thoughts, identify meaningful patterns, reflect upon what’s important to us, and shape who we believe ourselves to be. Some stories we tell to other people. When we do this, it moves that internal narration to the outside and gives other people the opportunity to better understand us. When they, in turn, share their stories, we can overlay our own perspectives and expand the way we experience our world. In the story of our lives, we play two roles: the star and the narrator. We don’t have control of how every plot detail unfolds, but we do have control of the language we use to talk about that plot. The way that we narrate our life to ourselves determines the “script” that we then act out as the main character. So, how can you improve the scripts that you’ll use to guide the way you live your life? Pay attention to your “story prompts.” Are you framing the experiences of your
life in ways that are self-defeating or supportive? When you’re feeling down, look for ways to flip the narrative and offer yourself encouragement. Approach difficult people and situations as necessary to your character development. Every hero needs challenges to grow into their power. When we think of difficult times or people as teachers meant to spur our evolution, it can be easier to choose helpful reactions. Experiment with asking yourself, “If this was a movie, how would I want my character to respond? What would I learn from that response?” Observe yourself as a character. When you’re caught up in the action of playing the main character, you can sometimes lose perspective. Shifting into narrator mode allows you space to calm down, detach a little bit, and think objectively. Referring to yourself as another person can make this easier (example: Bill needs to take a break, go for a walk, and recharge). Write about a hard time and how it connected with your past, relationships and work. This helps with reframing, finding meaning in difficult events, and feeling your way into the future.
When you’re feeling down, look for ways to flip the narrative and offer yourself encouragement. | STOCK Connect with other people. Opening our hearts, and then listening deeply when someone opens theirs, is one of the greatest gifts we can offer to another person. As we come to understand ourselves and each other better, deeper connections can be forged. We are hardwired to benefit from the connections created by sharing our stories. When we listen to a story, our brain begins to synchronize with that of the storyteller. The activity in our two individual brains soon mirrors one another. This en-
ables us to better understand point of view and to empathize with them. Ultimately, we learn lessons from the stories that we’re told and the stories we tell ourselves—lessons that have the power to improve our lives. For more information on this topic, check out June’s Topic of the Month at: sawtoothmountainclinic.org.
418 Hwy 61, Grand Marais, MN
Market & Deli Open 10-6 Kitchen Hours (Fish+Chips) from 11-4
Dock to Table Fish + Chips Lake Superior Smoked Fish Fresh Fish by the Pound
Homemade Chowder Deli Cooler Cold Brew and Hot Coffee Harbortown Gift Market
www.thefishermansdaughtergm.com · instagram @thefishermansdaughtergm · (218) 387-2906 36
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
TASTE OF THE TRAIL BBQ PICNIC ADVENTURE SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 - 1-4 PM
• All You Care to Eat Breakfast 8-9:30 am (closed Wed. and Thurs.) • Boat Rentals • Pet Friendly
NorthShoreHealthCareFoundation.org
www.visitloonlake.com • 218-388-2232
Want a Good Read?
Check out our bookstore online. Ed 2nd
itio
n!
of Lake Superior’s North Shore
t 15
20
20 30
15
40
5
5 10
10
Portage to Skipper Lake
30 40
15 20
50
40
60
30
5
10 15
50 40
5
20
30
30
Where do you start? Right here. 20
20
5
10
15
30
50
40 30
50
5 10 15 20 30 40 60
60
10
20
50
70 60
5
50 40 30 20
15
10
5 5
30
10 10
5 10 5
5
Out
let
Cook County, Minnesota
Where the Fish Are! Cook County, Minnesota is a guide to 366 lakes with data about the fish species and population status, public access and acreage. Contour maps for 68 popular fishing lakes are included.
il
20
50
20 15
Cook County is justly famed for its quality fishing. From wilderness waters teeming with trophy walleyes to secluded ponds Prune Lake stocked with brook trout, this county provides wonderful fishing opportunities. Lake trout, smallmouth bass, walleyes, northern pike, black crappies, yellow perch, whitefish, muskies and stream trout swim in the county’s lakes. This book tells you where to find them.
Gunfl int Tra
15 30
40
10
Superior Hiking Trail
WALLEYES, BROOKIES, PIKE, LAKERS, BASS AND MORE
30
20
So many lakes…so little time to fish.
THE
Portage to Swamp Lake
Lizz Lake
“Inside this book, endless fishing adventures await.”
PLANNING, RESUPPLYING, SAFETY, BEARS, BUGS, AND MORE
The Historic Beacons of Minnesota, Isle Royale and Ontario
10 5
30
Inlet
Where the Fish Are!
ThruHike
lighthousEs
CATCH:
Inle
THE ALEC BOOSTROM STORY
Boundary Waters Boy
—Shawn Perich Outdoor Writer and Publisher
BY ANNIE NELSON
$14.95 ISBN 978-0-9740207-7-8
51495> Northern Wilds Media, Inc. of Grand Marais publishes the monthly Northern Wilds magazine, which is available at dozens of North Shore locations from Duluth to Thunder Bay. Printed in the United States by Northern Wilds Print & Copy. www.northernwilds.com
By Jack Blackwell
By EllE AndrA-WArnEr
A guide to over 350 fishing lakes Includes 68 depth contour maps
9 780974 020778
SECOND EDITION
A comprehensive guide to the lighthouses and navigational beacons from Duluth, Minnesota to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Learn about the storms and shipwrecks that led to their construction, the lonely lives of the keepers and the role lighthouses play in present-day maritime navigation. $22.95
Veteran long-distance hiker Annie Nelson compiled the information and advice you need for a successful thru-hike adventure on the 310-mile Superior Hiking Trail. $14.95
Seventeen-year-old Jack Blackwell joined his grandfather, Alec Boostrom, on his northern Minnesota wilderness trapline. There he learned the story of his grandfather’s life of wilderness adventure on Lake Superior’s North Shore and deep within the canoe country. $14.95
Join the authors on the trails that lead to the magnificent waterfalls of Lake Superior’s North Shore. Maps and directions to over 150 waterfalls are included in this unique guide. $19.95
One devastating day in November, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald succumbed to gale-force winds, plunging to the bottom of Lake Superior and leaving no survivors. This haunting tale looks back to one of the most legendary, mysterious and controversial shipwrecks on the Great Lakes. $9.95
From wilderness waters teeming with trophy walleyes to secluded ponds stocked with brook trout, this guide contains data about fish populations and access for 366 lakes. Contour maps for 68 popular fishing lakes are included. $14.95
s h o p . n o r t h e r nw i l d s . c o m NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
37
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event COOK COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER Saturday, July 24th, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Safely dispose of household hazardous waste and pick up usable household products. Free of charge! Acceptable wastes include (but not limited to): - Paints & stains - Acids & bases - Aerosols - Automotive products - Fluorescent tubes - Thinners & solvents
- Adhesives - Button & rechargeable batteries - Home & garden pesticides - PCB ballasts
Types of wastes NOT accepted: - Business waste - Radioactive material - Empty containers - Alkaline batteries - Compressed gas - Explosives - Tires
Electronic Recycling Collection Events TRIC
LIGHT IN
ETRO GR
RETRO FI
EC T EL
Grand Marais: August 28th, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
PL Y
E CY
F IT
C LI N
G
FIT
R ETR O
THE RETROFIT COMPANIES
S UP
R E TR O F
IT R
®
Call (218) 387-3630 for more info.
Clean Your Prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
FREE BOAT WASH for a free drive thru boat wash
OR
38
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Northern Trails Little Trout Bay Conservation Area By Gord Ellis
Back in the early 80s, a few high school buddies and I decided we were good enough fishermen to take a crack at entering a derby. The big event of the day was the Lake Superior Trout Hunt, a catch and kill derby that allowed you to win prizes for weighing in the largest lake trout, steelhead, coaster brook trout, pike, walleye or salmon. My buddies and I had zero experience on Superior, but we did have a hot tip on where to go. “Little Trout Bay,” said my friend George. “I hear they are biting there.” A hot tip is a hot tip, so we grabbed George’s dad’s boat, hooked it up to his dad’s car, and away we went. The bay was beautiful and as we dropped the boat in; the excitement was building. Since we had no clue where to fish, trolling was the order of the day. Spoons were tossed behind the boat and down the shoreline we went. The water was aqua blue, and the rocky shoreline looked very fishy indeed. About 15 minutes in, the other angler hooked up with a 7-pound steelhead that went cartwheeling through the air. On the board. A few minutes later I had a fish strike that turned out to be a laker of about 5 pounds. The last fish was another steelhead, a small one, but still. Trout hunt here we come! We didn’t clean up that day, but we did get some prizes. And I still have the trout hunt beer mug I won nearly four decades on. That was the first time I visited Little Trout Bay, a jewel of an area that is somewhat overlooked by many Thunder Bay boaters, anglers and hikers. The Little Trout Bay Conservation is owned and operated by the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority, in Thunder Bay. This conservation area is situated on the shore of Lake Superior’s Little Trout Bay and includes 18 hectares of largely forested land. On-shore activities found at the conservation area include a pavilion with picnic tables, BBQ, toilet facilities and displays built in 2001-02. In partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), the LRCA’s reopened Lookout Trail (1 km) now connects to the NCC’s James Duncan Nature Trail and Big Trout Bay Conservation Reserve. The James Duncan Nature Trail is a 9.5-kilometre hiking trail. The hike offers users a chance to see wildlife like birds, squirrels and deer, and is rated as moderate. The boat launch at Little Trout Bay is a major draw and can handle large craft as
The boat launch at Little Trout Bay is a major draw as it can handle large craft as well as smaller canoes and kayaks. | RYAN MACKETT well as smaller canoes and kayaks. The launch provides public access to Lake Superior waters south of the City of Thunder Bay. Several other bays are within striking distance of the launch including Big Trout, Cloud, Pine and Pigeon Bay. Little Trout Bay and the surrounding waters of Lake Superior provide excellent fishing for salmon, whitefish, rainbow trout, pike and lake trout. Coaster brook trout are also increasingly common in these waters, as are brown trout. Some of the rivers that enter the lake south of Little Trout, including the Pine and Pigeon Rivers, have good walleye fishing. Ice fisherman also have a fine opportunity to fish this area thanks to the access provided by the LRCA. While ice conditions can be a little dodgy at the mouth, inside Little Trout Bay the ice is generally stable and safe. Good winter lake trout fishing can be enjoyed here, as well as a shot at whitefish. Since that first open water trip to Little Trout Bay in the 1980s, I’d been back sparingly to the area. But last June 2020, my friend Davis Viehbeck and I spent several hours fishing and exploring the area
Gord Ellis with a lake trout from waters near Little Trout Bay. | GORD ELLIS NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
39
around Little Trout Bay and east up the coast. I’d forgotten just how breathtakingly beautiful the bay itself—and the coast of Superior—is here. Huge rock cliffs are com-
Although Viehbeck and I were fishing out of an 18-foot boat, you can comfortably angle in smaller craft on Little Trout Bay. The bay is quite sheltered, but the key to wave
I’d forgotten just how breathtakingly beautiful the bay itself—and the coast of Superior—is here. mon, with a wide variety of trees growing on what looks like solid rock. As you move out of the bay, there are reefs and picturesque islands. The water is ultra-clear, which allows you to occasionally see fish as you boat over them or as they approach your lures. Viehbeck and I both spent most of our time casting rocky points and reefs. The action was not crazy, but several lake trout were caught, many of them in relatively shallow water. Off one small island, I threw a bucktail jig and was shocked to see a large lake trout cruise out after my jig in less than 5 feet of water. I would say the fish was conservatively 15 pounds, but it may have been larger. It did not come back.
height is wind velocity and direction. An east or south-east wind can whip up the bay relatively quickly. I use the Windfinder App to monitor wind speeds and velocities and I’ve found it to be quite accurate. There are other ways to watch the wind as well, but if you are in a kayak, canoe or small boat on Lake Superior, you need to be very aware of conditions.
BY JOE SHEAD
says the lake was stocked with walleyes until 2004, but has relied entirely on natural reproduction since then, and the fish are doing fine. Several year-classes are present. The 2017 DNR survey found an average walleye size of 15 inches, with 62 percent of the population measuring greater than 15 inches. Paron has personally fished the lake on a few occasions and suggests anglers use live bait. He suggests slowly pulling spinner rigs over reefs or points for summer success. But you may have to put in your time to find fish. “It’s one of those lakes you’ve got to learn. There’s lots of structure,” Paron says.
WHY GO: Kawishiwi Lake is an entry point to the Boundary Waters. As such, you can enjoy a day of fishing inside the wilderness, without bothersome motorboat traffic. From there, you can continue into the wilderness if you have a permit, or just make a day of it. You’ll find a good number of eater-sized walleyes and a nice population of good-sized perch. ACCESS: Kawishiwi Lake lies about 20 miles northeast of Isabella on USFS Road 354. It is Boundary Waters entry point 37. It’s got a large parking lot that can hold 20 or more vehicles and a five-site campground near the access. There are also six remote campsites on the lake. No motors are allowed, so the launch is for small, non-motorized crafts only. VITALS: At 372 acres and with a maximum depth of 12 feet, Kawishiwi is a moderate-sized, shallow lake. Dean Paron, DNR Area Fisheries Supervisor in Finland, says the lake has quite a bit of structure, including rock and more than 20 species of aquatic vegetation. Paron says the campground gets a lot of visitors, and fishing pressure in the summer is fairly heavy. It’s quiet at other times of the year. GAME SPECIES PRESENT: Walleyes, yellow perch, northern pike and smallmouth bass. WALLEYE: Paron says Kawishiwi is a good walleye lake. “The numbers are lower than some of our area lakes, but the size tends to be a little better,” he says. “The catch has remained slightly above average.” Paron 40
JULY 2021
One last note about the Little Trout Bay Conservation Area: The LRCA maintains this launch and grounds and not the government. The $5 parking fee is mandatory and important as it helps cover these costs. Regular users might also want to consider purchasing an Explorer Card. They are
YELLOW PERCH: “I think primarily people still pursue walleye there, but the size structure of perch – it’s one of our better perch lakes,” Paron says. Perch are present in above-average numbers in Kawishiwi. The latest DNR survey found the majority of the perch to be over 8 inches, with quite a few over 10. Average size was 9 inches, and 26 percent of the perch in the survey measured 10 inches or greater. Paron says most people probably target walleyes, but good-sized perch can be a nice bonus catch. Some of the weedy bays may be worth a look for perch. NORTHERN PIKE: Northern pike fishing isn’t too notable on Kawishiwi. Although pike are present in average numbers, their size tends to be small. In the latest DNR survey, average size was 17 inches and only 7 percent of the pike measured 22 inches or more. The largest captured was just under 30 inches.
NORTHERN WILDS
Boating on the waters near Little Trout Bay. | GORD ELLIS $40 Cdn + HST and cover the user annually at the LRCA’s many other properties and forest blocks. The Explorer Card can be bought here: lakeheadca.com/conservation/explore-card.
Little Trout Bay Conservation Area is a jewel and worth the trip if you are looking for a unique outing close to Thunder Bay.
KAWISHIWI LAKE
SMALLMOUTH BASS: Smallies are a recent addition to Kawishiwi Lake. “They have been surveyed in both of the last surveys,” Paron says. Scale sampling indicates that at least four year-classes are present. Paron expects the fish are now well established. The mean length of smallmouth bass in the latest survey was 14 inches, and some good-sized bass were sampled. The population could be even larger than the DNR survey indicates because bass are net
shy. They are best sampled by electro-fishing, which isn’t permitted in the Boundary Waters. TAKEAWAY: “It’s more the experience of being in the Boundary Waters than a world-class fishery,” Paron says. Still, those nice perch and eater-sized walleyes may warrant a look.
View all our Fishing Hole Maps at: northernwilds.com/fishingholemaps
Trophy Trash Ryan Murray of Grand Marais has a dog with a special gift. It’s especially adept at finding trash when they are out for walks. But it’s a gift that frustrates Murray for obvious reasons. He decided to do something about it. He began picking up the garbage others leave behind. That led to his creation of the Facebook page Ryan’s Restoration Project, where he posts his efforts to clean up the community and encourages others to do the same. The Cook County Home Center donated some
buckets to his cause, as well. As for finding trash, Murray has some observations. “The side of the road is the worst,” he says. “I find a lot of masks, really a lot of masks.” He also finds trash accumulates in consistent places. “When I go downtown, I can get a couple of buckets in 40 minutes,” he says. “It tends to be bad in places where it’s blown into a fence or the corners of buildings.”
We want to give Ryan Murray the credit he is due as we launch a new Northern Wilds initiative called Trophy Trash. Like most everyone, we want to see the area kept clean and we are asking your help in making it that way. Every month, we will publish a photo of our readers showing off their trash trophies. If we select your photo, you’ll win a prize! To enter, email your photos to: events@northernwilds.com. Axton Curtis shows off a stringer of trash. | BREANA ROY
Since 1916
Loggin’ Food at its Finest
0 YEARS
Lakeside Dining Full Bar
R OVER 10 O F Y IT N U M O C SERVING OUR
Logger Lounge 11 am-9 pm Food til 9 pm, Beverages til Close* Available for banquets & weddings
Lakeside Cabins Campground
Meet the newest addition to the Lake Superior Zoo Family!
5th-wheel Tents Water & Electric Hook-up
Watercraft Rental
Kayak
Fishing Boat
Canoe
NOW OPEN DAILY 10 AM - 5 PM
Pontoon www.GrandMaraisStateBank.com • Phone: (218)387-2441 211 East Hwy 61 • PO Box 100, Grand Marais, MN 55604
LSZOODULUTH.ORG NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
41
Coaster Brook Trout By Shawn Perich
[TOP LEFT] An Ontario coaster brook trout. | SARAH FERGUSON [ABOVE] A Minnesota coaster taken on a fly. | ANDREW SELVIG
When is a brook trout like an onion? One answer may be when it is fried golden brown. But a better answer is when Lake Superior fish managers and researchers team up to take multiple approaches to learn more about this native fish. The brook trout lives in cold streams running into Lake Superior, as well as in the lake itself. In streams, it is typically a small fish, averaging less than 12 inches in length. In Superior, it is capable of growing much larger, possibly reaching 24 inches or more. In the 1800s, Lake Superior’s giant brook trout, now called coasters, attracted sport anglers from around the world. Unfortunately, during the 20th Century, a combination of factors ranging from overfishing to poor land use practices decimated Superior’s coasters until only remnant populations re-
mained at places like Ontario’s Nipigon Bay and Isle Royale. Now, in the 21st Century, fish managers are trying to restore coasters wherever it is possible to do so. A variety of trout and salmon swim in Lake Superior and its tributaries, but most were introduced from the Pacific coast or Europe. The only natives are brook trout, lake trout and closely related whitefish. After nearly being wiped out by predation from invasive sea lamprey and overfishing, lake trout were successfully rehabilitated during the latter half of the 20th Century. Whitefish remain common in much of the lake and are harvested commercially. Brook trout are abundant in Superior’s tributaries, but remain sparsely populated in most of the lake, including Minnesota, where they frequent shorelines, bays and nearshore waters.
Nick Peterson, Minnesota DNR fishery specialist stationed at French River, makes an analogy to layers of an onion when he describes current efforts in Minnesota and lakewide that use advanced scientific tools and analysis to learn more about brook trout in the Lake Superior basin. They are trying to find answers to some questions. Are there genetic differences between brook trout living in streams and those living in the big lake? Were brook trout native above the waterfalls that create barriers to upstream migration? If there are differences between stream and lake dwellers, is it a function of habitat or something else? “We’re trying to get a holistic picture of brook trout genetics,” Peterson said. On a lakewide basis, the Cooperative Science and Monitoring Initiative is study-
Come See the Littlest Member of the Pack Open seven days a week • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
VISIT TO PURCHASE ADVANCED TICKETS AND VIEW DAILY PROGRAM SCHEDULE 1396 Highway 169, Ely 55731 • 218-365-4695 42
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
ing maxillary bones collected from brook trout above and below migration barriers to determine life histories, such as whether an individual fish is a stream resident or migrates to and from the lake. A laser directed at the bone can follow the fish’s life history and determine from elements collected in the bone whether the fish was in the stream or spending time in the lake. Researchers aren’t sure whether coasters are migratory like salmon, leaving the stream at a young age and returning later to spawn, or if they move between the stream and lake depending on stream conditions and water temperature. Researchers know from historic accounts that coaster brook trout were once bigger and more abundant than they are today. But they don’t know how habitat degradation or other factors influence the present population.
more biologists can learn about the original native brook trout, as well as contemporary populations, the better they can foster their recovery. One hundred and fifty years ago, anglers caught brook trout by the barrelful. Given the habitat changes and introductions of non-native species to Lake Superior that have occurred since then, it seems unlikely
coaster brook trout will ever recover to that abundance. But it is possible the population can be restored to the point where anglers have a reasonable expectation of catching a trophy-sized coaster. For brook trout anglers and biologists, that is reason enough to proceed with recovery efforts.
An average-sized coaster is much larger than the brook trout living in the North Shore’s cold creeks. | SARAH FERGUSON That said, coaster brook trout are becoming somewhat larger and more abundant in Minnesota waters, due in no small part to protective regulations that reduce the bag limit to one fish at least 20 inches in length. In the not-to-distant past, anglers were allowed to keep 10 brook trout of any size, which generally assured the good tasting fish were taken home for dinner. While anglers don’t catch large numbers of coasters along Minnesota’s North Shore, the ones they do catch can be sizeable. Pictures of Minnesota coasters appear on social media, which amplifies anglers’ enthusiasm for catching them. Social media also helps promote interest in coaster brook recovery. In the management of Lake Superior’s fisheries, coasters have long played second fiddle to other trout and salmon, which are larger, common and desired by a broad swath of anglers. But Peterson said the DNR’s Lake Superior office is placing a higher priority on coasters moving forward. “The natives are meant to be here,” he said. “We still need to be realistic about coaster management. Population rehabilitation will take time. Coasters in Minnesota are limited by habitat, so habitat protection and enhancement are our number one priority.” Brook trout are fall spawners, so the DNR conducts fall electrofishing stream surveys
every three years to evaluate spawning populations. The agency also conducts some summer lake electrofishing surveys in nearshore areas such as bays, harbors and marinas to count and tag adult brook trout. Genetic samples collected during electrofishing surveys help determine the status of the population. Minnesota biologists are curious whether some of the large brook trout caught by anglers are actually splake, a hatchery created lake trout/brook trout hybrid stocked by Wisconsin. They also look to see if some of the brook trout originate from stockings of hatchery fish by the Grand Portage Ojibwe. So far, they found minimal evidence of hatchery-derived fish.
HikeWithConfidenc.HikeWith eBarStick
“Most of the biggest brook trout in fall surveys are wild Minnesota brook trout,” Peterson said.
Ongoing genetic analysis by the DNR and a coalition of fisheries agencies around the lake is developing a genetic baseline for brook trout in the Lake Superior basin that will hopefully lead to point where biologists can identify brook trout by the stream where they were born. Peterson also hopes to determine if brook trout were native above the barrier falls that block upstream passage by fish from Lake Superior. Biologists have thought brook trout were stocked above the barriers early in the logging era, but it is possible they’ve existed, at least in some waters, since the era of Glacial Lake Duluth. The
Andrew Selvig with a Minnesota coaster he caught while spey-casting off a river mouth. | ANDREW SELVIG
Hike With Confidence. Hike With the Bear Stick A heartfelt THANKS! for supporting a small business. —Steve & Cathy Hahn, owners—
Jeweler of the North Shore .. much more than a jewelry store!
A unique Boutique with Jewelry, Art, Clothing, Gifts & More.
Hike With Confidence. Hike With Confidence. Hike With the Bear StickHike
Hike With Confidence. Hike With the Bear Stick
In Downtown Lutsen - 5339 W Hwy 61, Ste 101 With the Bear Stick 218-370-9648 • www.jewelerofthenorthshore.com
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
43
NORTHERN SKY JULY 2021 By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH
Venus glimmers in the sun’s afterglow, where it will stay for months to come. Look for the planet low in the west-northwest about 40 minutes after sunset. The best days may be the 11th and 12th, when a young moon hovers nearby. In the southern sky, the summer stars have taken center stage. Grab a star chart— or find one online—go out at nightfall, and start by locating the Big Dipper in the northwest. Follow the curve of its handle to brilliant Arcturus, a star whose path cuts down through the plane of the Milky Way. Arcturus anchors the kite-shaped constellation Bootes, the herdsman. Moving eastward, we first encounter Corona Borealis, the Northern Crown, accentuated by its bright star Alphecca (or Gemma). Next comes an hourglass of stars outlining upside-down Hercules. Then we meet the large Summer Triangle of stars. Brightest is Vega, in Lyra, the lyre. To Vega’s lower left is Deneb, the tail of Cygnus, the swan. Deneb is also the brightest star in the Northern Cross, whose long section extends below Vega. Farther below Vega shines Altair, in Aquila, the eagle.
East of Altair, little Delphinus, the dolphin, seems to leap toward a dark sea. Above it floats skinny Sagitta, the arrow. Low in the south, gigantic red Antares marks the heart of Scorpius. Just east of Scorpius sits the Teapot of Sagittarius, with its spout pointing toward the scorpion’s tail. By month’s end, Saturn and Jupiter, in that order, will be rising in the southeast before midnight. Look for them below Altair. Or catch them in the southwestern predawn sky; note that they form a triangle with Fomalhaut, the lone bright star in Piscis Austrinus, the southern fish. July’s full moon rises within an hour of perfect fullness the evening of the 23rd. Though not designated a supermoon, it will still be close, and thus bright as well as quite round. The University of Minnesota’s public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth and Twin Cities campuses have been curtailed due to the pandemic. For more information and viewing schedules, visit: d.umn.edu/planet.
Business & Service Directory Services
Restaurant Prep Support • Training & Development • Lifelong Learning Opportunities.
Convenience
• College
• Student
218.387.3411 GetHelp@myCCHE.org 300 West 3rd Street, Grand Marais, MN www.mycche.org
Tax Services Silver Bay
Two Harbors
30 Shopping Center PO Box 68 526 7th Street PO Box A Silver Bay, MN 55614 Two Harbors, MN 55616 218-226-4383 218-834-3600
Salads Pizza
Regional
Beer on tap
Mon.-Sat. 11am-8pm Closed Sunday
Wine
Order Online!
MySistersPlaceRestaurant.com
Eat-in or Take-out • 218-387-1915 • 401 E. Hwy 61, Grand Marais
DRINK BAR: • Freshly ground coffee • F’Reals • Slushies • 16 flavors of pop Grand Marais, MN
Full-service Jewelry Store: design, repair, engagements
Chiropractic • Massage
hope4u@boreal.org www.violencepreventioncenter.org
Downtown Lutsen, MN (218) 277-8175 northlakewellness.com
Lodging/Outfitting
• Woolly Dry Goods • Irish Sweaters • Local Art • Handmade Knives
• Pajar • Crown Cap • AlpNRock • Gifts
In Downtown Lutsen - 5339 W Hwy 61, Ste 101 218-370-9648 • www.jewelerofthenorthshore.com
Open 7 days a week in downtown Grand Marais
www.buckshardware.net
FREE S E T E S I M AT LaFreniere Roofing LLC 218-370-8906
Mike LaFreniere - owner Grand Marais, MN lafreniereroofing@hotmail.com 55604 MN Lic #RR768742 Bonded/Insured
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Art Gifts Prints Jewelry Cards Fri-Sun 10-5, Jun-Dec 243 Riverview St Knife River www.47degrees.net
PLLC Scott Smith, Attorney at Law 61, P.O. Box 66 1710 West Highway 1710 West Highway 61, P.O. Box 66 Grand Marais, Minnesota 55604 Grand Marais, Minnesota 55604 Telephone: 218-387-9800 www.arrowheadlegal.com ∙ 218-387-9800 scott@arrowheadlegal.com
Construction
218-387-2280
BIG CITY PRICES ... SMALL TOWN SERVICE
Smith Law
44
• Bait • Tackle • Groceries • CBD products • Red Box
Retail
Call today for free and confidential support 24/7 218-387-1262
Attorneys for the North Shore
Burgers
Mon - Fri: 7 am - 5 pm Sat: 8 am - 2 pm 1413 E. Hwy 61, Grand Marais 218-387-1771 Toll-free 1-877-387-1771
www.acehardware.com
COOK COUNTY
DELIVERY
featuring local art
Advertise in the Northern Wilds Directory. Prices begin at $48 a month. 12,000 circ. Email ads@northernwilds.com
2 EXCEPTIONAL BUILDING SITES
The Salvager
The Life of Captain Tom Reid on the Great Lakes By Mary Frances Doner Foreword by Michael Schumacher University of Minnesota Press, 2017, $21.95
First published in 1958, The Salvager is both a narrative history of Great Lakes shipping disasters of 1880-1950 and the life story of Captain Thomas Reid, who operated one of the region’s largest salvaging companies during that era. Using the actual records of the Reid Wrecking and Towing Company, as well as Reid’s personal logs, letters and photos, author Mary Frances Doner tells the stories not only of the maritime disasters and the wrecking adventures that followed, but also of those waiting back on shore for their loved ones to return. Giving a unique perspective into shipwreck diving and salvaging, this is a great read for anyone interested in maritime history and the Great Lakes.—Breana Roy
DRURY LANE BOOKS
XX Pine Peak Rd. – $89,900 1.76 ac. XXX Pine Peak Rd. – $84,900 2.15 ac. For more information contact; Amanda Peterson – RE/MAX Results 612-812-5732 – Amanda@TheRitterTeam.com
The Genuine. The Original.
Celebration of Life for Joan Drury
HEAD DOOR OVER
Saturday July 24th, 3 PM Beach by Drury Lane Books
Overhead Door Company of Duluth
Poetry, Song & Remembrances. Potluck to follow.
Open Daily
Wild Child
Adventure Cooking with Kids By Sarah Glover
Open 24/7 Online drurylanebooks.com 12 E. Wisconsin St., Grand Marais
218-387-3370
Prestel, 2021, $25
Wild Child is a playbook for cooking up kid-friendly adventures and food, whether on your next camping trip or in your own backyard. Recipes include popcorn in a tin can, chocolate mud cakes, sticky buns, and sausages in a bag. You’ll also learn how to build a fire, make a pasta necklace (that you can eat), and cook fish on a string. Both fun and inspiring, this is a great book for getting your kids outdoors, no matter what age.—Breana Roy
Tait Lake Access – Lutsen, MN
24 hour service
Phone 218-722-2884 www.ohdnorthernmn.com 4214 Airpark Blvd. Duluth, MN 55811
Self-Publish with Northern Wilds Have a novel in the works? A memoir? A family history?
We provide all aspects of book production:
Editing and proofing. Design and layout. Printing and binding.
Sunken
Shipwrecks of Lake Superior By Kathy Groth
print@northernwilds.com · 218.387.9475 www.northernwilds.com
6
Lake Superior Publishing LLC, 2021, $17.95
Though it’s written for kids and told through the eyes of a kid, Sunken is a fascinating book for all ages. Dive into the captivating story of Chase, the son of a shipwreck diver, as he learns about various shipwrecks on Lake Superior, with the help of his mysterious new friend Bri. The book is broken down into sections, such as the Edmund Fitzgerald, Madeira, Gunilda, America, and the wrecks of the Apostle Islands. It also includes a glossary of maritime terms, lots of interesting fact bubbles, a map of all the shipwrecks in Lake Superior, and historical and underwater diving photos. This is a must read for any Lake Superior enthusiast.—Breana Roy
Sponsored by
Mark D. Consulting, LLC Serving Businesses and Residential Customers. 218-663-7149 Mark@MarkDConsulting.com
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
45
Gidaanikeshkaagonaanig Gidaanikoobijiganinaan Following the Ancestor’s Steps
Agwadaashi (Sunfish) By Sam Zimmerman As a gwiiwizens (boy), I use to take my newest Hardy Boy book, bait pail and fishing pole and sit by the river and spend all gabe-zhebaa (morning) fishing. It was so peaceful sitting on the dew laden grass watching my bobber dance on the top of the water, hoping for a nice sized ogaa (walleye) to grab the hook. I caught more agwadaashi (sunfish) than ogaa. I would get excited when I saw the golden flashes of yellow and green stripes under the surface; like fire when the sun hit their scales. Even now as an adult, I still find agwadaashi to be a gwanaaj (beautiful) nibi mandioo (water spirit). With niibin (summer) here, I am looking forward to going out along the North Shore with my coffee rather than a book, putting down asemaa (tobacco) and fishing for ogaa and agwadaashi. Happy and safe fishing everyone. 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.
UPCOMING EVENTS John A. Spelman III - Artist and Printmaker From Appalachia to Minnesota’s North Shore July 2 - September 5 Author Talk - July 14, 5 pm with Tracey Cullen and Scott Husby The bold and evocative style of John A. Spelman III’s artwork encourages us to consider the lives and landscapes of both the Appalachian region as well as Minnesota’s North Shore during the last century.
BALLY
BLACKSMITH & METAL SHOP The Bally Blacksmith Shop has chronicled Cook County’s economic history since 1911 - progressing from horse-drawn lumber camp equipment to motorized commercial fishing rigs, automobiles, and snowmobiles.
Two Artists - Two Stories July 23 - August 15 Artist Talk - August 3, 5 pm
The blacksmith shop was placed on the Na�onal Register of Historic Places in 1986 and has been managed by the Cook County Historical Society since 2013. The metal Forest Service building was added to the site in the early 1960s and serves as a working metal shop.
Hazel Belvo and Marcia Cushmore created a visual conversation around the post-modern concept of Juxtaposition. Each work consists of two paintings, a square and a rectangle, observational and abstract, glazing and impasto and two entirely different expressions by two very different painters.
Visitors can tour the buildings each Friday and Saturday 1-4. There will also be blacksmithing demonstra�ons in the yard from 11 am - 2 pm July 10-11, August 6-7, and September 24-25. Thank you to our grantors and supporters:
The JHP Art Gallery welcomes volunteers! For more information, please call 218-387-2883 or email jhp@boreal.org.
JHP Art Gallery | 115 W. Wisconsin St, Grand Marais, MN 55604 46
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
100 N Broadway Ave, Grand Marais
Strange Tales Camping on Historic Grounds: Nipigon Tramway By Elle AndraWarner
Decades ago in the 1960s, while working for Ontario Hydro (OH), three of us—all aged under 20—took up the suggestion from other hydro staff to go weekend camping on the flat landing directly across the water from OH’s Alexander Falls Generating Station (built in 1930). Located about 10 miles north of Nipigon on Highway 585, the landing was touted as a beautiful, quiet place with great fishing. None of us had ever camped before, but hey, it was a new adventure. So, after work on a Friday, we packed our camping gear, piled into my new ‘used’ 1957 red-and-white Chevy, and headed out to Alexander Landing. Added to our confident attitude that we could do anything, we did have our own ‘security’ guards as it was in the days when the station was staffed 24-hours by regional operators who we all knew. The guys said they’d keep an eye out for our safety and even invited us over each morning for freshly-brewed coffee.
The Alexander Falls Generating Station, built by Ontario Hydro in 1930 on the Nipigon River to generate hydroelectric power, is now owned and operated by Ontario Power Generation. A short trail brings the visitor to a viewing platform directly across from the station, falls, dam and 118-meter-long concrete spillway. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER tank) hauled the cars to South Bay on southern Lake Nipigon. Passengers were also transported on the tugs and travelled the tramway on a special closed-in car with longitudinal bench seats.
A few years ago, I returned to the landing at the now-automated Alexander GS, this time to visit the new viewing platform installed there. It was only then I learned from the signage about the historic Nipigon Tramway in operation from about 19081912 on the very grounds we had camped on years ago. The landing back in the early 1900s had been a busy hub of transportation activity with people, rail cars, tugs, scows, horses and warehouses. When the tramway construction began around 1906, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) had already been built across Canada with a route through the town of Nipigon. However, the federal government decided another transcontinental railway—the National Transcontinental Railway (NTR)— was needed on a northern route that would run 32 km (20 mi) north of Lake Nipigon. “Transporting equipment and supplies into this remote region north of Lake Nipigon posed a big problem for contractors” wrote the late John Todd in his article, “Nipigon Tramway” in Canadian Rail, October 1977. He noted that while there were winter tote-roads with horse and dog teams hauling supplies north to the NTR construction site, the best transport in summer would be the Nipigon water route. But the big problem was “portaging the many rapids on the upper Nipigon River.”
At South Bay, loaded cars were stored in warehouses awaiting the two steam tugs—double-decked 82-foot Ombabika and single deck 52-foot Pewabic. Horses moved the rail cars from the warehouses to scows to be pushed by the tugs the 112 km (70 mi) north across Lake Nipigon to Ombabika Bay. Once again, the cars rolled off the scow, put on tramway and hauled a couple of miles north to the construction site.
On the narrow gauge tramway (shown here circa 1909), the cars were pulled over land by a tank-engine. | NIPIGON MUSEUM Solution? The contractors developed a rail-water route to bypass the rapids by building a two-part narrow-gauge Nipigon Tramway. The lower section was built 5 km (3 mi) west of the Nipigon River through 30 km (18 mi) of bush from Alexander Landing to South Bay on Lake Nipigon south shore and the upper short 3-mile spur would run inland from Ombabika Bay on northern Lake Nipigon, along Little Jackfish River to the NTR construction site (now Ferland). In 1906, to accommodate larger lake freighters to tie up alongside the wharf, a dredge deepened the channel into Nipigon
Later, the empty rail cars were loaded back on the scow, returned to South Bay, and taken by horses to the warehouse to be loaded again with cargo for another trip across Lake Nipigon.
Bay. By 1908, the tramway was operational when the big lake freighters arrived and unloaded rails and all supplies onto the rail cars, which would be put aboard scows equipped with three narrow-gauge tracks, each track holding three rail cars for a total of nine cars per scow.
After northern railway construction ended, the tramway rails were removed and the tugs Pewabic and Ombabika were pulled ashore on Lake Nipigon. They were put back in service in 1916 and 1917 for the lake’s commercial fishery industry. In 1923, the NTR became part of Canadian National Railway (CNR), which continues to operate today.
The steamer tug Nipigon then pushed the rudimentary car-ferry scow for 19 km (12 mi) on a three-hour-trip up Lake Helen and Nipigon River to Alexander Landing.
And the camping trip? Well, we had such a great time that we camped again the following summer at Alexander Landing, oblivious to its history.
At the landing, the cars were moved onto the Nipigon Tramway where a small wood-fired ‘donkey-engine’ (0-4-0 saddle NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
47
Bear Island
Surveying
LLC.
SpecializingSpecializing in all aspects of in All Aspects of Real surveys Estate Related Surveys real estate related Know Your Boundaries! Know Your Boundaries!
www.bearislandsurveying.com 218.365.6893 943 East Sheridan Street Ely, Minnesota 55731 pob@bearislandsurveying.com
Full views. A fraction of the price.
Bluefin Bay Condos & Townhomes
Own a piece of Minnesota’s Favorite Resort
All units are currently sold. To be notified when something comes available, email eric@bluefinbay.com.
Eric Frost
Sales Agent, Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts
New townhomes, total coastal luxury right on the shore of Lake Superior. 3,000 s/f, 3BR, 3BA. Quarter-share ownership w/ flexibility for personal use & rental income. Excellent family retreat or investment property. Prices from $174K-$215K, includes furnishings.
48
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Let Eric, exclusive sales agent for Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts, provide the details about each property and guide you through the process. Contact him today to learn more.
218-663-6886 | eric@bluefinbay.com
www.CBNorthShore.com Serving Cook County since 1971
140053 _ NORTH SHORE
(218) 387-2131 (800) 732-2131
101 West Hwy. 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com
O n Lake Sup e rior
G N DI
N E P
D L SO 1441 Croftville Rd
Here is a 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with its own piece of Lake Superior Shoreline on the peaceful Croftville Road. The great room is amazing with massive fireplace and floor to ceiling windows to take in the superior view. Wildflower gardens, deck, 2 stall garage, roomy 3 season porch top it off.
MLS 6096731 $539,900
3876 Cascade Beach Rd
This 2 bedroom cabin on 200+ feet of private Lake Superior shoreline is perfectly charming. Surrounded by mature spruce forest and sitting only steps from the rock and pebble beach. It is so cozy, but it is really all about the view and the sound of the waves!
MLS 6096668 $649,900
88 Troll’s Trail
This is what it’s all about! Enjoy the views and sounds of Lake Superior from inside or out this lovely 2-bedroom/2-bath home located on over 300 ft shared frontage on the Big Lake AND over 600 ft of Reservation River!
MLS 6096249 $299,900 REDUCED
D L SO 2884 W Highway 61
200 Stonegate Road
317 ft. of magnificent ledge-rock Lake Superior shoreline, located minutes west of Grand Marais. Numerous outcroppings and rock formations that create incredible wave action together with the accompanying sounds of crashing water.
This truly magnificent home sits on almost 5 private acres with over 700 feet of Lake Superior shoreline that varies from ledge rock to rocky beach. A Dale Mulfinger design, it was built by a local craftsman known for meticulous attention to detail.
MLS 6095857 $359,900
MLS 6095586 $949,900 NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
49
INLAND LAKE HOMES & CABINS
7120 Two Moose Trail True solitude can be found on Wilson Lake in this stunning Mulfinger, architecturally designed 4 bedroom, 5 bath home that takes advantage of the many attributes of lake living. This exquisite home is tucked away on a gorgeous 4.5 acre lot filled with trails, gardens, and multiple water access points along the 284.17 feet of user-friendly shoreline. Escape to this peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the great outdoors, explore trails summer and winter, or just enjoy the views…. This is a truly special place!
MLS 6096401 $899,000
190 N Loon Lake Rd Majestic forest surrounds this equally majestic 3 bedroom, 3 bath home all set on 14 acres with over 650’ of Loon Lake shoreline. Open concept, granite counters, beautiful fireplaces, large attached garage…it has it all! Can you imagine having your own stunning forest, complete with walking & snowshoeing trails, majestic old growth cedar trees and plenty of wildlife? Cabins like this rarely come on the market and this home is being sold basically turnkey, making it easy to start living the dream!
MLS 6097081 $969,900
NEW 21 Voyageur Bay
Relax and enjoy cabin life in this sweet 3BR, 1BA cabin, located on the shores of Poplar Lake. The property features 150’ of shoreline with 1.35A filled with mature trees that provide plenty of privacy. The location mid-Gunflint Trail is phenomenal with access to great fishing, canoeing, miles of hiking/biking/skiing/snowmobiling trails.
MLS TBD $389,900
MLS 6097305 $489,900
101 West Hwy. 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com 140053 _ NORTH SHORE
50
NEW 78 Voyageur Point Rd
This sweet two bedroom, one bath cabin is surrounded by towering pine trees and located on the shores of Gunflint Lake, which is a very desirable lake because of the size & quality, fishing and direct BWCA access right out your front door. The cabin is situated on a USFS leased lot.
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
(218) 387-2131
•
(800) 732-2131
www.CBNorthShore.com
Home s & C abin s
NEW 1466 Tom Lake Rd
419 5th Ave W
Here is the log cabin in the woods you have always dreamed about! This charming cabin sits on nearly 80A with tons of trails for exploring and lots of wildlife to discover. Great location for the outdoor enthusiast with Tom Lake across the road.
Check out this well built affordable priced home! In City limits and situated on a large sunny lot. Looking for one level living? Here you go! This home has a spacious kitchen, a generous living room, 2BR, 1BA, mudroom and detached garage.
MLS 6097425 $299,900
$209,900 MLS 6096141 REDUCED
D L SO NEW 1292 Golf Course Rd
1039 W 2nd Street
Grab your clubs and play a round--this 3 bed/2 bath bright and sunny home is just down the road from the 8th tee at Gunflint Hills Golf Course on beautiful Maple Hill. Five acres with a large lawn, mature trees, and a pond.
Here is the chance for log cabin charm with in-town conveniences and access to all the great activities Cook County has to offer! 5BR, 2BA home with log walls, beams, and columns are complimented by many south facing windows with partial Lake Superior views.
MLS 6097502 $315,000
MLS 6095030 $399,900
NEW 215 6th Ave W
NEW 386 S Gunflint Lake Road
Must see this 3 bedroom 3 bath home! Conveniently located within walking distance all Grand Marais has to offer. Great layout, attached garage, and an amazing backyard to enjoy.
This is a gem of property for someone looking for an affordable Gunflint Trail get-a-way with 2 one room cabins. The property consists of 9A, with USFS land to the south for added privacy. There is a spacious log sauna building complete with wood burning heater.
MLS TBD $324,900
MLS 6097307 $149,900
101 West Hwy. 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com
(218) 387-2131
•
(800) 732-2131
www.CBNorthShore.com
140053 _ NORTH SHORE
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
51
LD
Land
INLAND LAKE LOTS
G N I D
NEW 918 Cutoff Rd Beautifully wooded lot with garage and drilled well already completed. Close to town and the Pincushion Ski Area. What a location for your recreational getaway or year round home! MLS 6096726 $129,900
PEN
XX Camp 12 Road 40 Acres located right off of the Irish Creek Road. Land is surrounded on three sides by State Land for added Privacy. Irish Creek flows through the property. MLS 6095948 $49,900
1XX Ski Hill Rd Dreamed of a getaway on the North Shore? Over a half acre on Lutsen’s Ski Hill Road with the west side of the property overlooking Superior National Golf Course. MLS 6093169 $59,900
106X Devil Track Road Nine wooded acres 9 miles from Grand Marais fronting on a paved road makes for a great site to build your North country home or cabin. Deeded Devil Track Lake access. MLS 6095671 $74,900
NEW 10X County Rd 6 Top of the world views from this gorgeous property! Look to the West to see the Sawtooth Mountains, East to see Grand Marais and Everything in between is Lake Superior! MLS 6097090 $199,900
1X Brandon Lane Beautiful lot just outside Grand Marais. Fall River runs through this property. Dramatic frontage! MLS 6095813 $62,000
NEW 15X County Rd 6 Easy drive to downtown Grand Marais from this private lot on County Road 6. Fall River/Rosebush Creek frontage. MLS 6097095 $64,900
XX County Road 67 Breathtaking views from this 2.7A lot that directly abuts State Land to the east and there is DNR owned Lake Superior shoreline to the south. Quite accessible to year-round access and all utilities. MLS 6095245 $39,900
NEW 12X-C County Rd 6 Private 10 acre lot with Lake Superior views--privacy at its best. Plenty of land for your oasis, hobby farm, cabin, home, retreat. MLS 6097096 $99,900
West Hwy 61 Attractive & affordable building site with 3+ acres & easy access right off of Hwy 61. Minutes from town and Close to Cascade River State Park MLS 6093939 $35,000 1X South Shore Drive So many options with this 5+ acre lot! Mature trees in a country setting close to popular Devil Track Lake, the airport, and only minutes to Grand Marais. MLS 6091923 $45,000 Jonvick Creek Sites 10 lots available from 1.5 - 4.8 acres In the heart of Lutsen, just off the Caribou Trail. Maples, Pines, and cedars in varied arrangements will make a great back-drop for your home or cabin. Each property adjoins public land making your space seem even more private. $29,900 $49,900 XXX Broadway Avenue Affordable residential lot within city limits. Very close to all your needs. Walking distance to the schools and quick trips to the grocery stores. MLS 6095980 $39,900 19XX Camp 20 Road Are you looking for an affordably priced 20 acre chunk of land? This property has added privacy since it directly abuts Federal land to the north. MLS 6096381 $32,900 XX County Road 67 Gorgeous year round view of Lake Superior on this 2.7 acres with gently rolling topography with a gradual slope towards the lake. Truly a wonderful location to build that dream home! MLS 6095244 $82,000
NEW 12X-D County Rd 6 Out in the country, but close to all the activities in Grand Marais! This peaceful 10A parcel will have you dreaming of easy living in a rural setting. MLS 6097097 $99,900
Tom Lake
Wishing for an affordable inland lake lot? Here it is! Over 20A with 300’ of shoreline on Tom Lake. All the privacy you long for and close to the BWCA and Superior Hiking Trail. MLS 6095017 $95,000
Deeryard Lake
Tom Lake lot with over 200 feet of frontage and an easy slope to the lake! There’s a shed and a dock waiting for you to start your adventure. MLS 6083377 $69,900
NEW 14XX Camp 20 Rd Terrific 55 acres with an amazing mix of forest. Balsam, spruce, birch, aspen and some maple and white pine. Want room to recreate? This is it. MLS 6097013 $60,000 NEW 1142 Camp 20 Rd 170+ acres of heavily forested land that has been replanted with many beautiful pine trees, poplar & cedar trees. Features gravel pit and pond and abutting State land. MLS 6097348 $159,900 43XXS E Highway 61 This parcel has many great building sites, all with panoramic views of the Big Lake, Beautifully wooded 20 acre parcel with wonderful views of Lake Superior. MLS 6097055 $119,000
Tom Lake
Great 25 acre parcel right across the road from Tom Lake. The DNR owns the narrow strip of land between the road and the lake but you get all the views. MLS 6097232 $59,900
92XX Hwy 61 W 40A of healthy forest with Highway 61 frontage is ready for your idyllic place on the North Shore. Attractive tract with a potential Lake Superior view. MLS 6097501 $149,900
NORTHERN WILDS
Greenwood Lake
Gorgeous south facing 2+ acre with 276’ of shoreline. Features YR access, driveway in, picnic area and walking trails. Development shared ownership includes private boat launch and surrounded by federal lands. MLS 6097422 $149,900
G N I D
NEW 43XXN E Highway 61 Beautifully wooded 20A parcel with wonderful views of Lake Superior. Tree cover includes healthy balsam, fir and terrific Jackpines. MLS 6097054 $99,900
140053 _ NORTH SHORE
JULY 2021
Tom Lake
Just a little off the beaten path this 3.5 acres and 134ft of lake shore sits on Deeryard Lake. Build your cabin among the BEUATIFUL maples over looking the lake or close to the waters edge. MLS 6095803 $155,000
PEN Greenwood Lake
Here’s your chance to have property on the incomparable Greenwood Lake. Over 200 feet of rocky shoreline. A cleared building site on a rocky knoll gives an awesome view down to the lake. MLS 6095672 $129,900
101 West Hwy. 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com 52
Tom Lake
Affordable AND attractive lot on Tom Lake, complete with a solid driveway and cleared building site. Very private with 1.6 acres and 189 ft of shoreline. MLS 6090351 $64,900
Squint Lake
Nicely wooded 2 plus acre lot with 221’ of accessible shoreline on Squint Lake. Directly abutting USFS for added privacy and year round access just off the Gunflint Trail. MLS 6096359 $79,900
(218) 387-2131
•
(800) 732-2131
www.CBNorthShore.com
REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, ABR/GRI • Larry Dean, Realtor Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI
Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599 (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604
LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES LAKE SUPERIOR – GRAND MARAIS
Immaculate 3 bdrm/3 bath home within a short walk to downtown. Features timber frame cathedral ceiling with large open floor plan, stone fireplace and expansive windows overlooking the shoreline, and moods of the big lake. Full lower level has great views from 2 bedrooms and family room. Covered screen porch, with a stone fireplace, is the perfect place for 3-season outdoor entertaining. Views to the lighthouse are spectacular! Comes completely furnished, including kayaks! MLS#6096604 $1,325,000
SALIENG PE N D
This 1.76 acre lot has 214 feet of rugged rocky shore. Building site close to the water’s edge in mature spruce trees. South and east views of sun rises and moon rises. Secluded area adjoining state land. A great home site from which to watch the crashing waves. MLS#6095526 $199,900
Lake Superior lot with 206 ft of shoreline, deep spruce forest, adjoining state land and outstanding sunrises and sunsets with east view of the lake. Enchanting forest with huge mosscovered boulders. Build your home or cabin here and enjoy seclusion with the charm and
SOLD
MLS#6097560 $489,900
NEW! LAKE LOVER’S PARADISE
Lake Superior views that will take your breath away. In addition to dramatic cliffs and mature birch that characterize this property, there is ample acreage above the north side of Hwy 61, with a variety of lake view building sites. 510 feet of shoreline with 46+ acres. Shown by appt only, listing agent must be present, buyer must provide lender’s pre-approval letter or proof-of funds to secure appt. MLS#6097546 $450,000
NEW! PREMIER LAKE SUPERIOR LOT Spectacular views of the big lake from a slightly elevated build site. Very secluded and private, a one of a kind opportunity with 332 ft of ledge rock shoreline! Right in the neighborhood of Lutsen Mts., Superior National Golf course, dining and recreation.
MLS#6096904 $299,000
This cabin boasts 195 ft of gorgeous shoreline on Tom Lake, manicured lawn, and covered deck space on two sides of the house for relaxing and entertaining! Lake draw water, a mound septic system and generator power. Additional land and lakeshore available for purchase. Year round access. MLS#6092306 $339,000
LARGE, PRIVATE RETREAT – TOM LAKE.
NEW! BIG BAY – BIG VIEWS
beautiful, accessible ledge rock shoreline! Lower level has abundant windows facing the lake. Enjoy the main floor bedroom with a sitting area. The wood fireplace is able to heat up the house and keep you cozy while keeping the electric storage heaters down low. Room to turn deck into a nice, lake facing den. MLS#6096089 $499,000
Tucked peacefully into the dense woods, only feet from the craggy ledge rock shore of Lake Superior, lies this charming old family cabin. Well cared for, and simple, the small structure has everything you’ll need for your summer stays on the shore. Power and Broadband are there. The 350+ feet of dramatic shoreline and 8 acres provides protection and many great sites for a future home or additional cabin.
TOM LAKE ESCAPE.
LAKE SUPERIOR – LEVEL LOT, GREAT VIEWS
LAKE SUPERIOR CABIN Lake Superior cabin with
NEW! THREE GENERATIONS – LAKE SUPERIOR COTTAGE
INLAND WATER PROPERTIES
peacefulness of the Hovland area. MLS#6097037 $199,900
INLAND WATER PROPERTIES NEW! MILLION DOLLAR WILDERNESS VIEWS
A fantastic stand-alone luxury home on the edge of the BWCA on remote and scenic McFarland Lake. A full wall of windows brings the stunning scenery into all 3 levels, with 6 bdrms, 4 baths and full lower level kitchen. Custom built home shows quality throughout, including 2 fireplaces, sunroom, large loft, sauna and laundry room. Spend summer evenings on the expansive deck and outdoor spaces, or in the screen house off the patio. Huge 3-bay floating dock system, detached 2-car garage with workshop and generator room, and a 4-stall garage. Comes fully furnished. MLS#6097293
$1,100,000
LARGE TWO ISLAND LAKE RETREAT - GRAND MARAIS.
This 46+ acre property includes a peninsula with outstanding lake views. Wide creek and tons of wildlife. Privacy assured with over 1600 ft of lake front, plus over 2000 ft of creek. Literally walk to the BWCAW. Charming 4-season, 2 bdrm cabin with large dock and easy lakeshore access. Property can be sub-divided. MLS#6087574 $845,900
This original family cabin is well built and in good shape, tucked into a large private tract on beautiful Tom Lake. 52 acres of pine and cedar with 1287' private shoreline. Adjoining state land for plenty of room to explore. This is a rare find. MLS#6092390 $299,000 REDUCED
NEW! DEVIL TRACK LAKE – REMOTE CABIN
Quality 2-bdrm cabin, built in 2012, featuring large windows, cathedral ceiling in the great room, loft, and beautiful kitchen. There is a well and a holding tank sewer system. Unique location, at the far end of the South Shore Dr of Devil Track Lake, surrounded by state and USFS lands. 150 ft of lake frontage in a protected and sheltered bay. The 4.78 acre parcel adjoins thousands of acres of remote public lands for exploring. MLS#6096616 $235,000
SALIENG PE N D
BORDER LAKE BEAUTY
Gunflint Lake lot with mature trees, 170 ft of classic rocky shore and spectacular views of the Canadian wilderness across the lake. Gunflint Lake is large, clear and a gateway to the BWCAW. Lot is on a year-round maintained road. Power and broadband available. Septic sites located. Retire, recreate or work from your lake home on this rare vacant parcel at the edge of the wilderness. Additional land available. MLS#6096406 $199,900
LEVEL LOT, NICE WOODS, EASY SHORE This Devil Track
Lake lot has easy access from a county road, power, phone and great building site. South shore, 200+ ft. frontage, great views. Build your home on the lake here!
SALIENG PE N D
MLS#6078259 $198,000
www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
53
SALIENG PE N D
INLANDMike WATER PROPERTIES HOMES & CABINS REALTORS®: Raymond, Broker • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, ABR/GRI • Larry Dean, Realtor Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, GRI NORTHJake FOWL SECLUDED LOT W/ LAKE ACCESS LOT. Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, SPACIOUS 4
Red Pine RealtyS•AL(800) 387-9599 E SOLD G
LAKE CABIN.
Only a lucky few get to own cabins here. Remote water access from the US side, or drive in to the landing on Ontario side. Stunning views, easy access to the BWCA. The 2 bdrm cabin is one of the nicest remote cabins you'll find. Includes a great sauna. MLS#6023214
$139,900
TWO EXCEPTIONAL TOM LAKE LOTS.
This 3.8 acre densely wooded lot has good access off a county road, and the Tomahawk Snowmobile Trail. Includes a 1.2 acre lot on Hare Lake. Perfect (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com place to keep your boat and PO Box 938, 14areS. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604 water accessories. The 2 lots permanently joined by deed restriction. There is power and cell phone service..Only 20 minutes to Lutsen ski and golf! MLS#6094774 $44,900
$97,000, MLS#6092308 $129,000 WOW, LAKE PRIVACY AND HUGE REDUCED PRICE! 20 acres on beautiful Lost Lake, a private, remote wilderness
lake with only a few parcels. It holds the mystique of a hidden lake full of hungry trout. Privacy is guaranteed because all lots are 20 acres in size. This outstanding lot has huge white pines, a cabin site on a knoll looking south over the whole lake, and great accessible shoreline for your dock. Seasonal road access.
SALIENG PE N D
MLS#6094952 $99,900
SOLITUDE ON LOON LAKE.
Three great lots on the south side of Loon Lake. Fantastic shoreline, beautiful views, many nice trees. Located near the Gunflint Trail on a private road. Driveway in with power on the lot line. MLS#6089603
$94,900 SOLD, 6089604 $96,000, 6089606 $88,000 ESCAPE TO NINEMILE LAKE.
SALIENG PE N D
Nice, quiet lake between Tofte and Finland known for its recreational opportunities. 2.9 acres very near the BWCAW. Good snowmobile access to the Tomahawk Trail and miles of trail riding. MLS#6085601 $59,900
SALIENG PE N D BEAUTIFUL PRIVATE LOT ON HARE LAKE
Deep, private lot with maple, spruce and cedars, accessible shoreline and nice elevated building site. Power and cell phone service. This area is surrounded by U.S.F.S. lands near Finland and Isabella. Priced to sell!
MLS#6093661 $53,900
What a buy! 18 miles from Grand Marais. Large 4 bedroom home AND 4 car heated garage nestled in the woods on the edge of Hovland. Potential for downstairs apartment.
PENDIN
HOMES & CABINS TOP OF THE LINE LIVING.
These special properties offer opportunities. One lot is a beautiful forested peninsula with cove, and the other has a nice mix of tree cover and open build sites. Accessible, yet away from it all. Build your dream here! MLS#6092307
BEDROOM HOME.
Secluded 30 acres. Magnificent 2 bdrm, 2 bath home features: marble tile floors, soaring cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, a master bath with hot tub and sauna, marble stairs and local artist's work etched in the glass surrounding the loft. Incredible elegance and outdoor appeal. Attached 2000 square ft garage has huge boat storage bay, perfect workshop space and a guest space in the 2nd level.
MLS#6094773 $599,900 LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW HOME
Beautiful property with 4.45 acres and a nice Lake Superior view. Both levels suitable for single-level living, complete with all amenities and a 2 stall garage. Lower level is freshly remodeled, and rented out for $1,500/ month. Finely finished and equipped for entertaining, includes a wraparound deck with lots of room for grilling and enjoying the outdoors.
SALIENG PE N D
MLS#6096238 $489,000
SALIENG PE N D
LOG HOME NEAR GRAND MARAIS Classic log
home with custom made doors and hand-picked local logs. 2 bdrm, 2 bath home on 2.88 acres. Enjoy sunrises from balcony off bedroom loft, sunsets from back deck, and cozy evenings on the porch. Includes custom kitchen island and cabinets, cedar railings, split-log stairs and rich wood flooring. Detached garage with finished space. Adjoining federal land gives privacy, with Broadband to keep you connected. Comes fully furnished. MLS#6097279 $459,900
NEW! GUNFLINT TRAIL HOME & BUSINESS 3
bdrm., 2 bath home & business space with many updates. Fantastic heated shop spaces & garage, lovely garden space, pretty & peaceful wooded setting near lakes, trails, dining! On the famous Gunflint Trail. Home & business options...or just call it “home.”
MLS#6097559 $289,900
REMOTE HIDE-A-WAY. Charming custom built 2 bdrm, 2 bath cabin tucked in the woods overlooking a beaver pond. Screened porch for summer dining. A cozy Franklin stove warms the whole building. The full basement is a complete guest space. Generator power and over 100 acres to explore. MLS#6029349 $244,000
MLS#6094777 $239,900
HOME ON DEVIL TRACK RIVER
This home is conveniently located only 6 miles from Grand Marais and just off of the Gunflint Trail. Includes 5+ bedrooms, a large yard and open floor plan on the main level. There are 230' of river frontage on the beautiful Devil Track River which is great for fishing stream trout or perhaps to find a place to sit and enjoy the sounds and views of the flowing river.
MLS#6096272 $199,000 REDUCED
CONDOS NEW! OUTSTANDING LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS Three bedrooms,
3 bathrooms and a lower level walkout flexible space used for additional sleeping and lounging. Two fireplaces, a comfortable main level open layout, a fantastic deck with spectacular views of Lake Superior! Successful vacation rental, walk to dining, ski hill, winery, Superior Hiking Trail. MLS#6097395 $425,000
COMMERCIAL BIG OPPORTUNITY, MANY POSSIBILITIES
Prime commercial location in Hovland with 1000 feet of Highway 61 frontage. Large commercial space, with a small 2 bedroom home and 1 functioning rental cottage. Many new improvements and upgrades. Two other small cabins could be rented. Large 2-car garage plus 2 sheds. This site has been a centrally located historical business location and has many options for your entrepreneurial pursuits. MLS#6095045 $287,000
PROSPERITY AWAITS - Fantastic
business/commercial opportunity right in the heart of downtown Grand Marais. Bring your ideas and become part of a supportive and welcoming community!
MLS#6094481 $189,000
GRAND MARAIS OPPORTUNITY.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire vacant commercial property in Grand Marais, and your business options are nearly endless! Zoned Service Commercial/Industrial, any type of business is possible here. Property includes a paved driveway and frontage on Highway 61.
MLS#6092309 $168,000 LARGE GRAND MARAIS LOT. Nice 3.60 acre commercial
lot with potential for multi family housing subject to city approval. Good location on the west end of Grand Marais just off Hwy 61. Easy access to the bike trail. MLS#6089284 $149,500
www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 54
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
RIVER/CREEKREALTORS®: FRONTAGE Mike Raymond, Broker • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, ABR/GRI • Larry Dean, Realtor Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI
SALIENG Red PE N D
LARGE TRACT WITH CREEK.
Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599
This 319 acre parcel has ponds & creek frontage on the Flute Reed River. Great for hunting or homesteading. Access is by unimproved easement from the Camp 20 Road, near county maintenance. The land may be split - take your pick of "40's"! MLS#6095106 $258,000
GREAT HUNTING LAND
Easily accessible via the logging road at Casper's Hill Rd and runs east through the 158 acres. Includes creek front footage, aspen, balsam and spruce stands. Abundant deer sign, and good grouse habitat. East side of property abuts Judge Magney State Park. Property is subject to SFIA land use covenants. MLS#6094370 $199,000
(218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604
SWEET HIDE-AWAY ON CREEK.
SOLD
Sit on your screen porch overlooking the Carlson Creek valley and listen to the babbling brook. Cute 2 room cabin + loft is simple and designed as an easy retreat with no power or cell phones, just nature and the flowing creek. Warm wood stove and updated kitchen with beautiful hickory
cabinets. MLS#6091758 $120,000
NEW! COYOTE RIDGE LOTS WITH POWER
Acreage close to Grand Marais with an out of town feel. Lots 10 and 11 on E Coyote Ridge Rd. are beautiful 5+ acre parcels with power on site and 1000’ - 1400’ of frontage on Lone Pine Creek. Potential for big lake views with selective clearing. Affordable yearly association fee to cover plowing and road maintenance.
MLS#6096717 $68,000, MLS#6096707 $70,000 WOODS, WATER & SECLUSION.
Three 40 acre lots with 600 to 1000 ft frontage on Mons Creek. Also includes deeded access to Lost Lake. Private and secluded.
MLS#6089089 $69,900 or MLS#6089091 $58,900 or MLS#6089090 $69,900
NEW! PEACEFUL LOTS ON LONE PINE CREEK
Peaceful lots on a private road with an affordable yearly association fee to cover plowing and road maintenance costs. Both parcels have power available nearby and include 400’ – 520’ of frontage on Lone Pine Creek. Close to Grand Marais, with nearby access to all the north shore has to offer including, but not limited too biking and hiking trails, inland lakes and more! MLS#6096709 $40,000,
MLS#6096716 $55,000
NICE HOME SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Nice elevation and views from this 6.75 acre lot off of County Rd 6 just minutes from town. Frontage on Little Devil Track River. NEW! FINLAND 40 ACRES
40 beautiful acres surrounded to the N/S/E/W by state lands, compete w/ its own creek/stream and trails running adjacent to the east. Water, woods & winding roads for miles! Enjoy downtown Finland, the Baptism River & more.
MLS#6096627 $65,000 DEEP WOODS, MONS CREEK.
RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE
Nice “40” with good tree cover and creek frontage, where you could launch your canoe. There's a great building site overlooking Mons Creek from a high point. Good road access, but private and secluded. The property has private deeded access to Lost Lake, which is a short walk away. Wilderness feel. New trail cut into the property so you can see the potential! MLS#6089091 $58,900
MLS#6031740 $51,000 500’ ON MONS CREEK.
Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with many great build sites on 25 acres. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Abuts state land. MLS#6029353
$37,000
LAND/BUILDING SITES GREAT HUNTING LAND.
Easily accessible via the logging road that starts at Casper's Hill Road and runs east through the majority of the 158 acres. Includes creek front footage, as well as aspen, balsam and spruce stands. Abundant deer sign, and good grouse habitat. Plenty of space to explore on an ATV or mountain bike. East side of property abuts Judge Magney State Park. Property is subject to SFIA land use covenants.
MLS#6094370 $199,000
HOVLAND HOMESTEAD 117+ ACRES
Hurry out and pick up this 117.83 acre property that has lots of potential for a homestead or recreational getaway! Located about an hour from Grand Marais, it has access to electricity and broadband internet just at the end of the driveway. Make your dream of living and working in the north woods a reality. MLS#6095932 $139,000
SPECTACULAR LAKE VIEW. Expansive lake views and
enchanting forest make up a unique 13 acre parcel. Just 15 minutes from Grand Marais, and a short walk to Lake Superior's shore. Power and Broadband are available. Shared driveway leads almost to the property line.
MLS#6090230 $132,000
INCREASINGLY RARE, LARGE RECREATIONAL PARCEL. 190 arces fully surveyed. The perfect retreat. Has a rich
variety of trees, ponds, high and low lands, some meadow land and wetlands. MLS#6029820 $129,000
LARGE WOODED ESCAPE. A rare 80 acre retreat or home site just off county road with power and Broadband nearby. Great location in remote area of Cook County with close proximity to Lake Superior and miles of trails and back roads to roam. Many good building sites. MLS#6090145 $99,900 REDUCED HUGE POND-HUGE PRIVACY.
Large 45+ acre wooded parcel located across from Tom Lake. Huge pond/ lake in the very center of the acreage. MLS#6083920 $90,000
LARGE PARCEL NEAR SHORE.
This heavily wooded 12 acre parcel is within a short walk to the shore of Lake Superior. Great lake affect and plenty of privacy. Rough shared driveway in place. Close to Broadband and power. Older travel trailer included. MLS#6090231 $87,900
NEW! LOCATION, RECREATION, FOR VACATION These 33 acres are in
a great location for your escape cabin. Close to the BWCAW and within walking distance to Cascade Lake. Year-round road access in a secluded part of Cook County. No power, or Internet - you’ll need satellite for that. But, maybe this is the time and place to leave it behind. MLS#6096618 $79,900
10 ACRE LOTS NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Four 10 acre lots only a few miles from Grand Marais on County Rd 48 and Bally Creek Rd. Some Lake Superior views and potential for more! Several driveways are in with buried electric along the northern border. New culverts, nice build sites, new survey. MLS#6091811 $75,000
www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
55
REALTORS®: REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, MikeBroker Raymond, • Linda Broker Garrity, • Gail Realtor J. Englund, • Cathy GRI Hahn, • Linda ABR/GRI Garrity,• Larry Realtor Dean, Realtor Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess •Smith, • Sue Nichols, Assoc.Realtor Broker •• Jess GailSmith, J. Englund, GRI Cathy Hahn, ABR/GRI Larry Realtor Dean, Realtor • Jake Patten, Realtor
Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599 (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604
LAND/BUILDING SITES
SALIENG PE N D MATURE WOODS, LAKE VIEW, CLOSE TO GRAND MARAIS.
Great 20 acre parcel on County Road 14 with mature forest and Lake Superior views. Good area for a home or recreational property. Could be subdivided.
CREATE YOUR OWN NORTH SHORE HAVEN. Beautifully wooded and
SOLD
conveniently located parcel, 11.03 acres, that would make a fantastic place to build your year-round home or cabin. Private, nicely buffered between "neighbors". Cty. Rd. 48 is accessible year-round and offers a lovely drive that offers that "Up North" feel that so many search for. MLS#6095284 $67,900
driveway to a beautiful building site. Great lake view! Only minutes to Grand Marais. Nice mix of trees, quiet dead-end road, south exposure, power and Broadband nearby. Perfect for your home in the woods.
MLS#6086767 $63,000
MLS#6096674 $70,000
40 OF PINES NEAR TOM LAKE.
40 acres with good road access and an easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing. Year-round road, power is possible here. Many great building sites. Nice forest of plated pine. Great recreational area. Adjoins state land. Easy access to trails and other lakes.
MLS#6095108 $69,900
SALIENG PE N D NEW! TOFTE LOTS
These 3 lots offer electric and walking distance from downtown Tofte! This would be a perfect location to build a year-round home from which to launch all of your north shore adventures. Or you could work remotely from here and have immediate access to hiking, mountain biking and other outdoor activities during your leisure time. MLS#6096868
PENDING, MLS#6096869, 6873 $59,000 - $69,900
$59,900
SALIENG PE N D
on county road. Potential Lake Superior views from a high lot with dense forest. Great location for your home or cabin. Close to trails and all the recreational opportunities in the area. MLS#6096711
$54,900 END OF THE ROAD PRIVACY This
SALIENG PE N D
deeply wooded lot has 6.08 acres and sits at the end of the road adjoining federal land. Good road access, power and Broadband. Only 10 minutes from Grand Marais. Nice high site for a home or cabin with plenty of privacy.
MLS#6095433 $54,900 DEEP WOODS LOT – CLOSE TO TOWN Five acre lot adjoining USFS land with
SALIENG PE N D DEEP WOODS LOT NEAR GRAND MARAIS This high 6.08 home site has good road access, power andS Broadband. OLNiceDelevation with power/phone/Broadband at the lot. Great location near Grand Marais, good road access and very secluded location. MLS#6095430 $53,900
mature forest. A super site for your home or cabin.
HIDDEN GEM IN HOVLAND.
Explore 40 acres of seclusion with dramatic views from the south facing bluff. Beautiful mixed forest and abundant wildlife. Small gravel pit for your future building needs. The neighbors have electricity and the road has been kept open all winter through a road association. MLS#6076192 $60,000
GREAT LOCATION HOME SITES.
Just minutes from Grand Marais on black top County Rd 7 are two 5+ acre lots with easy access to power and Broadband. Good building sites. MLS#6094098
$62,900, MLS#6094099 $42,900 LARGE ACREAGE NEAR TOM LAKE.
Two parcels with 40 acres near year round road access and power. An easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing. Shared easement granted to build driveway into property. Many great building sites. Great recreational area. Easy access to trails and other lakes.
MLS#6095113, 6095114 $60,000 each LARGE LAND, POND, LAKE RIGHTS. Densely wooded 60 acre parcel with beaver ponds and access to Lost Lake. Good seasonal road access, many great building sites and southerly exposure.
MLS#6086104 $59,900 REDUCED GRAND MARAIS VACANT LOT.
Nicely wooded parcel on quiet street in the west end of town. Three full city lots facing south with city street, curb and gutter, utilities near by. Short walking distance to the harbor. MLS#6093024 $59,900
BUILDING SITE 10 MINUTES FROM GRAND MARAIS Deep wooded
lot with 5.31 acres. Power and Broadband. Good road access. Easy access to trails and lakes. Great spot to build your home in the woods.
MLS#6095432 $49,900 NATURE LOVERS PARADISE
Broadband and electric on a year round, school bus route! This is a mature, wooded 5 acre lot with spruce, poplar, birch, cedar and Balsam. There is ample space for building your new home. Notice the huge National Forest land on the back side of the property. This is a nature lovers paradise, deer, grouse, wolf and fox hanging out in your backyard. MLS#6095674
NEW! WOODS, VIEWS AND PRIVACY Nice lot only 4 miles from Grand Marais LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS – GREAT LOCATION. Five heavily wooded acres with
from Grand Marais. Lot 17 is a beautiful 5+ acre parcel with an amazing view of Lake Superior. Potential for views of the big lake from the top of Lot 18, with 6.43 acres. Broadband and power nearby. Features nearby access to all that the north shore has to offer. A peaceful lot on a private road with affordable yearly association fee to cover plowing and road maintenance costs. MLS#6096676 $90,000,
a pond, and an easement to walk to Tom Lake. Many trails to ride and forest to explore. MLS#6085291
SALIENG PE N D
MLS#6086641 $74,900
NEW! COYOTE RIDGE LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS Two lots only 3 miles
LARGE LAND, MAPLES, LAKE ACCESS. This 67 acre parcel has high maple ridges,
MLS#6095431 $53,900 GREAT LOCATION – 5 WOODED ACRES Only 10 minutes to Grand Marais, this 5
acre parcel is heavily wooded with good road access. Power and Broadband at the road. Nice mature forest. A perfect home site!
MLS#6095435 $52,900 BEAUTIFUL HOME SITE – NEAR GRAND MARAIS This 5.61 acre lot has
$49,000 REDUCED 20 ACRES WITH LAKE VIEWS
Beautiful 20 acre parcel with lake views!! If it's hunting you want, good luck finding 20 acres that can compete. Property borders reservation land on the north and east sides and Federal land to the south. The land is covered with beautiful trees and wildlife! Currently there is no road to the property, which is factored into the asking price. MLS#6094977 $49,000
NEW! COYOTE RIDGE LOTS Acreage
close to Grand Marais, but with that out of town feel. Nearby access to all that the north shore has to offer including, but not limited too biking and hiking trails, inland lakes and more! Lot 12 is 7.5 acres and has an absolute breathtaking view of Lake Superior. Lot 15 on Lone Pine Rd. is a great 5+ acre parcel and includes power nearby. Peaceful lots on a private road with an affordable yearly association fee to cover plowing and road maintenance costs.
MLS#6096712, 6714 $45,000 each BUILDING SITE OVERLOOKING MCFARLAND. This pine studded 7 acre
SALIENG PE N D
property has easy walking access to the county beach on McFarland Lake. Nice elevated build site with easy county road access. MLS#6085111 $43,000
adjoining USFS land, mature trees and lots of privacy. Just minutes from town on Maple Hill. Power/phone/ Broadband at the site. Ready for you to build your country home. MLS#6095429 $51,900
DEEPLY WOODED 5 ACRES
This nice 5 acre parcel has many good building sites, easy access to power and Broadband. Good road access and only 10 minutes to Grand Marais. A great location for a home or cabin near lakes, trails and wilderness.
MLS#6095434 $50,900 WOODED SECLUSION IN GRAND MARAIS.
Several great wooded lots on the west side of Grand Marais, a mile from down town. Close to the bike trail with privacy on a dead end road. Septic and wells allowed, power and broadband available. MLS#6087223,
26, 28 $49,900 – 58,500
NEW! GREAT LOCATION FOR HOME OR CABIN Just minutes west of Grand Marais on a black-top county road with power at the site, Broadband nearby. Five acre parcel with southern exposure. Potential Lake Superior views. Very affordable building site! MLS#6096700 $42,900
FORTY ACRES NEAR FINLAND
Old homestead property in “Cramer” adjoining state land, and very close to Cramer Lake. No road access.
MLS#6095233 $34,900
www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 56
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Talk to Terry! Terry R. Backlund Broker/Owner Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Email: Terry@BacklundRealty.com
Frank Lehto Real Estate Agent Phone: 218-387-4955 Email: Frank@BacklundRealty.com
Lori A. Backlund Real Estate Agent 209 E 1ST AVE UNIT #3 GRAND MARAIS MN
Saleng i d n e P
1886 CTY RD 7 GRAND MARAIS, MN
Saleng Pendi
34 HUNGRY JACK RD GRAND MARAIS, MN
SOLD
2 Bedroom 2 Bath 1000+ sq. ft. Lake Superior view. Underground parking. MLS# 6095221 Price: $289,000
4 Bedroom 4 Bath 2500 sq ft Log Home 2 Car Garage with hobby space. MLS#6096400 Price: $412,500
3 Bedroom Log Cabin 313 ft. lakeshore on Road Lake MLS#6093449 Price: $237,500
17.81 EAST COYOTE RIDGE GRAND MARAIS, MN
6.88 EAST COYOTE RIDGE GRAND MARAIS, MN
XXX SUCKER LAKE RD, BIG SUCKER LAKE, NASHWAUK, MN
New Listing
17.81 Acres. Rolling parcel with seasonal creeks. Private and close to town. MLS# 6097455 Price: $99,900
we Love Listings!
New Listing
6.88 Acres. Lake Superior view. Driveway in. Power at the road. Close to town. MLS# 6097459 Price: $89,900
X20 CTY RD 6 GRAND MARAIS MN
Great Location. 20 Acres. MLS# 6095181 Price: $64,900
5 N BROADWAY GRAND MARAIS MN
New Listing 15.9 beautiful acres with 840 ft of lakeshore on Big Sucker Lake MLS# 6096525 Price: $139,900
Commercial Building 2578 sq. ft. Restaurant. Great location. Possibilities MLS# 6095312 Price: $399,000
9 N BROADWAY GRAND MARAIS MN
Saleng Pendi
Commercial 50 x 82 lot. Fab location MLS# 6095295 Price: $139,000
For results list your property here For more details call or check our website
Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Terry@BacklundRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
57
MOLLY O’NEILL Agent
58
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
SELLING YOUR NORTH SHORE HOME?
NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
59
Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!! Local 663-8777 • Info@TimberWolffRealty.com Toll free (877) 664-8777 DREAMING OF LAKE SUPERIOR? ON THE WATER, LAKE VIEWS!
Summer is here on the North Shore! Time to Enjoy the Sunshine and Play in the Woods!
E L A S ING D N E P
NEW! INNISFREE ON LUTSEN’S LAKE SUPERIOR!!
NEW! BIRDS NEST UNIT AT EAST BAY SUITES ON LAKE SUPERIOR! 2 bedroom unit with Top floor privacy. Serene balcony overlooks a sweep of pebble beach stretching into the distance. Great rental history, Located in the heart of Grand Marais. Enjoy the 500ft of shared Lake Superior Shoreline or walk down the street to your favorite restaurant!
MLS#6095992 $335,000
This Cascade Beach Rd. Cottage has been in the same family since the original cabin was built in the late 1930’s! In 2006 the family took the old cabin into the modern era by adding a large addition to the original cabin: Vaulted ceilings in kitchen, dining, and bedrooms with walk out deck from the kitchen/ dining, and master bedroom. In this manner, the family could cherish the original North Shore cabin while living comfortably in a new space with clean lines. A maintenance free deck on the lakeside adds outdoor living space, while enjoying spectacular views with no visible neighbors! This is a one of a kind property with 350 ft of elevated, and accessible ledge rock beach! Enjoy miles of unobstructed views and the calming waters of Lake Superior.
MLS#6097085 $695,000
D L SO
EXPANSIVE VIEWS OVER THE GRANDEST GREAT LAKE OF ALL! MLS#6096312 $759,000
D L SO
SERENITY SHORES ON LAKE SUPERIOR!
MLS#6095570 $899,900
CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK AND LIKE TIMBERWOLFF R EALTY! 60
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
Summer is here on the North Shore! Time to Enjoy the Sunshine and Play in the Woods! Info@TimberWolffRealty.com
Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!! Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777
WILDERNESS HOMES, LAKE VIEWS, AND IN TOWN…READ ALL ABOUT ‘EM! NEW! NORTHWOODS CABIN IN FINLAND!
Beautiful property in Finland with charming cabin! Year round access via Cramer Rd in Finland area – gravel, but well maintained and plowed road. The two bedroom Cabin is buffered by trees, convenient location with a grocery store and community center in Finland within short driving distance. The East Branch of the Baptism River meanders across the road, some of the acreage is on the other side of the river. Paddle a canoe across the river and explore the woods. South of this parcel is Lake County land. State Parks and Superior Hiking Trail are close by. It is the prefect base for your North Shore Adventures
E SA L ING D N E P
MLS#6097254 $120,000 NEW! THE HERITAGE AT LUTSEN MOUNTAINS!
The home’s charm is enhanced by being surrounded by dedicated open space . A tranquil pond at the edge of the property opens to the well-manicured, world-class Superior National Golf Course! A sprawling deck is for gathering, grilling, birding, snoozing. Inside is all shined up and ready for comfort, family time, meals, living tastefully in the great Northwoods near the shores of Lake Superior. High-end finishing materials are throughout, including granite countertops and oak flooring. Great room is all the greater with cathedral ceilings and stone fireplace. The kitchen is a dream. Plenty of bedroom space for the whole crew or make an office overlooking the pristine landscape, with cool, pure air drifting in. New garage with apartment above and man/she-cave shop in the back. This home is just waiting for you to live your dream on the North Shore!
MLS#6097591 $559,000
SPACIOUS THREE BEDROOM HOME IN PEACEFUL LOCALE WITHIN GRAND MARAIS CITY LIMITS.
NEW! DOVETAIL LOG CABIN MINUTE’S TO TETTAGOUCHE STATE PARK
New high quality construction and seasonal Lake Superior views. Small footprint cabin with a loft style bedroom and 3 season porch that is the perfect place to realax and unwind. With Illgen Falls across the street and Tettegouche State Park is nearby you have plenty of places to explore.
MLS#TBD $350,000
INLAND LAKE GETAWAYS! NEW! PIKE LAKE GETAWAY LIKE THE OLDEN DAYS! Super accessible, shared 282ft of shoreline on Pike Lake! The cabin sits very close to the Lake and offers wonderful Lake Views, or sit on the deck and listen to the loons. Very functional floor plan, all on one level and wood burning fireplace to take away the spring chills.
Large city parcel with tremendous trees of various species lovingly planted and cared for over the years. Ample decks are shady under the sylvan overstory. The home is looking for a new owner with some fresh ideas, some sprucing up to make the place one’s own. Just up the Gunflint Tr are the Pincushion Trails and a top-notch view of Gitche Gumee. Basement is unfinished with loads of storage room and extra bathroom. Lot has potential for subdivision.
E L A S ING D N E P
MLS#6096339 $310,000
E SA L ING D N E P
MLS# 6096148 $255,000
GRAND MARAIS TO-BE-BUILT HOME! BEAUTY BY THE RIVER IN FINLAND! MLS#6096554 $275,000
Great opportunity to purchase a New Construction To Be Built home in Grand Marais on a lovely wooded lot. Plans for a two bedroom home with tuck under garage already drawn up and ready for your design input!
MLS#6095517 $472,500
Call TIMBERWOLFF REALT Y or visit w w w.timberwolffrealty.com for more information! NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
61
Summer is here on the North Shore! Time to Enjoy the Sunshine and Play in the Woods! Info@TimberWolffRealty.com
Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!! Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777
CAMPN’, HUNTN’, FUN GETAWAY LAND, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE! LUTSEN AREA
SILVER BAY TO SCHROEDER AREAS
Beautiful building site in Lutsen! Driveway in place and waiting for you to build your dream getaway!
24 acres on Blackwoods Drive, approx. 8 miles up the Cramer Rd from the Cross River in Schroeder! Southern sloping maples, beautiful build sites! Electric, fiber, year round access.
MLS#6095877 $49,000 SALE PENDING!
$99,900 MLS#6094707
Turnagain Trail in Lutsen! Excellent location, minutes to Lutsen Mountains and Lake Superior! Birch forest, with some spruce and Balsam fir. MLS#6094217 SOLD!
Beauty in the Maples! 10 acres to explore on the Cramer Rd.
Jonvick Creek RARE FIND with creek bordering common land, beautiful build site with distant Lake Superior view!
MLS#6096178 $59,900 SOLD
MLS#6094704 $57,500 PENDING!
NEW! Seclusion at 8271 Blackwoods Drive! 16+ acres of maples with driveway in place and year round access!
Lutsen Build sites with shared septic and well just waiting for your little cabin ideas! Looking for a site to build without spending an arm and a leg? These sites are it! Well and Septic in place, just Build and Enjoy!
MLS#6097285 $84,900
MLS#2309328 $39,000 AND OTHERS, JUST ASK ABOUT MINK RANCH!
TOFTE AREA
Nice Caps Trail level land bordering the Superior National Forest! Everything you need in your build site, yr round access, electric and fiber at road, and a canoe launch to Tait Lake just a half mile away!
Relax in Wildwood Acres! With Electric at the road and year round access all that is needed is your imagination to start building your getaway Up North!
MLS#6092302 $31,900 SOLD!
MLS#6096144 $29,500 SOLD
80 acres in Lutsen! Nice for hunting and camping or to build your wilderness retreat! Wish we could say it was all high ground for this price, but it’s not but who cares, it’s 80 acres of your own land! Awesome wildlife!
South Sloping parcels at LeVeaux Mountain! Beautiful build sites, one parcel has a wildlife pond and the other views of Lake Superior from the top! Yr Round access, electric and fiber along the road, sensible HOA makes this a gem to build your dream North Shore home!
MLS#2312987 $99,900 SALE PENDING!
MLS#6089001; MLS#6089003 $67,000 EACH! 2.91 Acres hidden off the highway with Year Round Access! Enjoy the quietness of the woods while still being close to many hiking and biking trails.
MLS#6095861 $39,900 SOLD
GRAND MARAIS AREA Great lots in the heart of Grand Marais with city water and city sewer at the street!
.24 ACRES $89,000 MLS#6095459 .22 ACRES $90,000 MLS#6095460 .27 ACRES $70,000 MLS#6095461 NEW! 19.23 acres with views of Isle Royal on a clear day, building area identified and Flute Reed River frontage!
MLS#6096200 $99,900
NEW! Rugged wilderness on Camp 20 Rd! 750ft of frontage on Flute Reed River with 19+ acres to wander on!
MLS#6096150 $99,900 SOLD
NEW! JUST OFF THE BEATEN PATH!
RUSTIC CABINS
This is not your typical Rustic Cabin- Only three miles from Highway 61, the Cabin has all the feelings of home without electric or water. The open floorplan gives you the feeling of more space and the large windows give you a new view every time the seasons change. With a loft and 3 season porch you have plenty of space to relax and unwind in the quiet woods. Listen to the birds sing while you plant your gardens or just roam on the 19+ acres!
MLS# 6097509 $195,000
VISIT US AT WWW.TIMBERWOLFFR EALTY.COM FOR PICTUR E SLIDESHOW! 62
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
CATCHLIGHT
Baltimore Oriole The past few years I’ve been watching Facebook groups for when orioles start showing up along the North Shore. Usually when they are seen around Tofte I put out oranges and sometimes grape jelly. This year they showed up a day and a half after I put out the oranges. This photo is of a male oriole. They are so colorful and their calls are awesome after a long winter.—David Johnson NORTHERN WILDS
JULY 2021
63
on the Gunflint Trail
Unspoiled. Serene. Spectacular. Unforgettable.
W
elcome to Golden Eagle Lodge, a family oriented, year-round resort located on the Gunflint Trail of Northeastern Minnesota, only 30 miles north of Grand Marais. As the only residents on Flour Lake, and nestled in the 3 million acres of the Superior National Forest, you can look forward to the quiet and solitude offered only from a true wilderness setting. Each season has something special to offer; excellent fishing, canoeing, and hiking in summer and nationally-renowned Cross-Country Skiing
in winter. Visit our website to find in detail how each season can help shape your vacation. Try our 9-site campground which offers the same quiet and personal service as our cabins; each site comes equipped with water and electric hookups. We go out of our way to ensure every aspect of your visit will convince you to come back and see us again. We know much time, effort, and expense is invested in a vacation and we would be honored if you considered us as your vacation destination. You won’t be disappointed!
218-388-2203
Golden-Eagle.com
Check out our Live Webcam! 64
JULY 2021
NORTHERN WILDS
