Northern Wilds October 2023

HOVLAND, MN

Exceptional Lake Superior lots! Gorgeous building sites, very private desirable locations, some level to lake, some elevated. Gravel, accessible ledge rock & boulder shoreline, NE and SE facing sites to pick from. 18 miles to Grand Marais, 4 to Brule River for trout & salmon fishing & Devils Kettle Falls, 15 to Isle Royale ferry, 22 to Canada. Beautiful trees, protective covenants, community septic, electricity & survey.

“The finest Realtor I’ve ever worked with in my life.”

-Tim K.

Trekking Through Fall

It’s autumn, which means the arrival of pumpkin spice, fall sweaters, and spooky season. It’s also the perfect time of year to go for a hike—not only are the bugs gone, but the air is refreshingly crisp and the colors are always stunning. So, lace up your boots and get outdoors.

Starting in our Along the Shore section, Chris Pascone teaches us all about the Minnesota DNR’s Hiking Club, which anyone can join—just get yourself a copy of the Minnesota State Parks and Trails Hiking Club book. Inside, you’ll find a list of outstanding hiking trails from each of the 68 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas, as well as incentives to hike as many trails as possible. On a similar note, Kalli Hawkins gives us seven easy to moderate fall hiking options, located throughout the North Shore and varying in lengths. North Shore Dish columnist Virginia George recommends a few places to eat either pre- or post-hike, as well as nearby trails to trek. And Health columnist Hartley Newell-Acero reminds us that walking is one of the best ways we can improve our current health and increase both our lifespans and health-spans.

Of course, we can’t have an issue dedicated to hiking on the North Shore without including the Superior Hiking Trail. Rudi Hargesheimer, author of The Superior Hiking Trail Story, The Trek Continues, gives us a brief history lesson on how the beloved trail was built—a journey filled with many triumphs and challenges. Did you know that throughout its 300-mile length, the trail features approximately 80,000 feet of elevation changes? It also passes through eight state parks.

Hiking isn’t the only activity ruling the fall scene. Northern Trails columnist Gord Ellis provides us with a guide to fall fishing, so don’t put away those fishing rods just yet. Want to try a different kind of fishing? Whitefish netting season runs roughly late October through early December (this varies from lake to lake), and Chris Pascone has us covered with all the details. Be sure to dress warm and follow the netting “schedule” released each October by the DNR.

While you’re exploring the outdoors, keep a lookout for the beautifully elusive Canada lynx. Cheryl Lyn Dybas, alongside photographer Ilya Raskin, tells us about their magical lynx encounter last fall, and how the population is faring in both the U.S. and Canada today.

Spooky season is here and Strange Tales columnist Elle Andra-Warner did not disappoint in delivering us a scary story this month—a future run entirely by artificial intelligence (AI). According to Andra-Warner, an increasing number of AI experts, scientists, and industry leaders are raising alarms about the risks of AI leading to the extinction of humanity. What do you think?

As always, there’s lots of family-friendly events occurring this month, from Boo at the Zoo at the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth, to the Moose Madness Festival in Grand Marais. Be sure to check out our events section for all the happenings.

Winter is right around the corner, so make the most of autumn before its too late. Breana Johnson

OCTOBER

VOLUME 20, ISSUE 10 www.northernwilds.com

SERVING THE NORTH SHORE AND THE WILDERNESS BEYOND

PUBLISHER

Amber Graham

EDITORIAL

Breana Johnson, Editor breana@northernwilds.com

ADVERTISING

Destry Winant, Sales Representative ads@northernwilds.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Mike Lee Leah Pratt production@northernwilds.com

OFFICE Barbara Fisher office@northernwilds.com billing@northernwilds.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Elle Andra-Warner, Patrick Baumann, Laura Durenberger-Grunow, Gord Ellis, Virginia George, Rudi Hargesheimer, Kalli Hawkins, Cheryl Lyn Dybas, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Chris Pascone, Joe Shead, Sam Zimmerman

Copyright 2023

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)

Go to: northernwilds.com/distribution

October 9

ABOUT

ABOUT

from the County Attorney’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Probations, Cook County Public Health & Human Services, Grand Portage Tribal Council, Grand Portage Human Services, Cook County Board of Commissioners, Cook County ISD 166 Schools, facilitator advocates and administration from the North Shore Health Care Foundation. This work is made possible in part by a grant from the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation

Minnesota DNR Hiking Club Loyalty to nature

NORTH SHORE—October is prime time for hiking in Minnesota. The magic formula of no mosquitos, plus cooler temps and vibrant fall colors, transforms sweaty summer slogs into awesome autumn adventures. Yet, even with ample hiking trails crisscrossing our state, we may not be aware of all the opportunities out there, or be willing to travel to new state parks to experience it all.

Here’s where our Minnesota DNR is ready to help. They’ve compiled a list of one outstanding hiking trail from each of the 68 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas, and have published all these top hikes in a handy, spiral bound book entitled Minnesota State Parks and Trails Hiking Club. Hike entries feature a short description of what to expect, and often a color photo. These trails have been chosen by state park staff for their intrinsic beauty and unique natural history. The book provides hikers with clear choices for getting out and seeing their state’s natural places step by step.

Furthermore, Hiking Club gives incentives to go hike as many trails as possible. The book provides an organized means of curating your own personal checklist of which of the 68 trails you’ve hiked so far by entering the trail’s unique password in your book.

Verónica Jaralambides, marketing consultant of the DNR’s Division of Parks and Trails, explains how the password works. “About halfway along the designated Hiking Club trail at each park there’s a sign with a password that club members get to record in their book, along with the hiked mileage, as proof that they completed the hike. Participants get excited about finding the password, and it helps gamify the outdoor experience, adding another element of fun and incentive.”

Finding these passwords creates a quest for hikers, young and old. “This year we’re updating all our Hiking Club signage to provide better wayfinding and replace worn-out

signage. We took the opportunity to update some passwords as well, and we now have an interpretive element for visitors to learn something new about the place they’re visiting,” Jaralambides adds.

As you fill in more passwords by hiking at more state parks, you’re also earning more rewards. That’s right—this loyalty club gives you prizes for reaching hiking milestones.

You can present your log at any state park office to get patches for hiking 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, and 175 miles, and after hiking all the trails. Furthermore, you can receive certificates for up to two free nights of camping at Minnesota state parks. You’ll get your first free night after reaching 100 Hiking Club miles, and another after you’ve

hiked all trails. That’s an up to $50 value, considering today’s drive-in camping rates of $20 to $25 per night at state parks.

The Minnesota State Parks and Trails Hiking Club book costs $14.95, and can be found at all state park gift shops and at the online Nature Store: mndnr.gov/naturestore.

Of course, it’s not just the material rewards that motivate visitors to track down those Hiking Club signs with secret passwords scattered around the state. It’s about expanding one’s geographical range, and one’s hiking prowess. “With the goal to hike at 68 state parks and recreation areas, the Hiking Club provides an incentive for members to stay active and healthy,” says Jaralambides. “The club helps establish new habits while giving participants a sense of accomplishment. We’ve received testimonials from people who found the longer hikes in the book unattainable when they first started, but they quickly gained confidence and ability by starting with other hikes, and eventually built up to more strenuous ones.”

Hiking Club was originally established in 1991 to mark the Minnesota state parks’ centennial, and “has endured the test of

time,” Jaralambides says. Many members report discovering a new favorite park that they would have never visited were it not for the club. While visiting state parks and recreation areas, club members travel to different areas and support the local economy.

Sales of the Hiking Club book reached 2,806 copies in the first eight months of 2023—on pace to easily surpass last year’s total of 3,094. Jaralambides proudly notes that sales have increased every year since the DNR updated the books and increased promotions.

Jaralambides also takes pride in how the program spurs people on to explore their natural environment. One participant’s testimonial stated, “Personally, my favorite part of the Hiking Club is that it usually walks you through just about every unique part of the park.”

The loyalty club helps connect more people to the outdoors and discover new state parks and recreation areas. Pick up a copy of Minnesota State Parks and Trails Hiking Club and go see how many different passwords you can collect while the hiking is still prime.—Chris

Pascone

By walking the Hiking Club trail in each state park, Hiking Club members can find a password to enter in their log book, thereby earning rewards for their hiking miles. | MNDNR

Each state park has one iconic trail—such as Shovel Point trail in Tettegouche State Park—that serves as the park’s “Hiking Club” trail. | CHRIS PASCONE

The Hiking Club book can be purchased at all state park gift shops. | MNDNR

Breakfast Ser ved All Day

Lunch • Homemade Soups

We’re Open Before t he Fish Bite!

EXPLORE THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF

EXPLORETHECULTURALHERITAGEOF

Cook County

Cook County

Stopbyany heritagecenter ormuseumin CookCountyto receiveyourfree Passportbooklet. Visitanyorall18 sites,collectyour bookstamps, andlearnabout therichhistoryof CookCounty!

Stop by any heritage center or museum in Cook County to receive your free Passport booklet. Visit any or all 18 sites, collect your book stamps, and learn about the rich history of Cook County!

•SugarloafCoveNatureCenter(Schroeder)

•CrossRiverHeritage&InformationCenter (Schroeder)

• Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center (Schroeder)

•NorthShoreCommercialFishingMuseum (Tofte)

• Cross River Heritage & Information Center (Schroeder)

Whitefish are a cold-water species endemic to northern Minnesota and Ontario. | CHRIS PASCONE

Whitefish netting is best learned from experienced netters. The heritage is still being passed down today.

| CHRIS PASCONE

Whitefish netters can use a 100-foot-long by 3-foot-deep gill net in approved lakes (see the MN DNR’s yearly Whitefish and Cisco Sport Gill Netting Regulations to identify water bodies with a whitefish netting season—about 100 lakes in all in Minnesota).

NORTH SHORE—How many people have ever been whitefish netting?

to learn this heritage fishing method.

• North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum (Tofte)

•VisitCookCountyInformationCenter(Grand Marais)

•CookCountyHistoryMuseum(GrandMarais)

•Chik-WaukMuseum&NatureCenter (GunflintTrail)

• Visit Cook County Information Center (Grand Marais)

•GrandPortageNationalMonument& HeritageCenter

• Cook County History Museum (Grand Marais)

According to a 2022 Minnesota DNR press release, only 700 people a year participate in this tradition in Minnesota. While netting has a rich heritage in the state, times have changed: much of today’s fishing crowd employs scanning sonar, navigation apps, and high-speed motorboats to ply the waters. Fishing has gone hi-tech, leaving the original heritage methods of the Native Americans, and early European settlers, behind.

To start, whitefish netting is strictly regulated in both Minnesota and Ontario, with an open season in late fall, when whitefish come in shallow to spawn. In Minnesota waters, whitefish netting using gill nets is open to state residents only. A resident whitefish/ herring/tullibee harvest license must be purchased by each individual netting in Minnesota ($10, available at any DNR license agent), along with a regular angling license.

Duluth Nets makes ingenious sinking nets with a bottom lead core rope, and a top foam core rope. When deployed in the water, the net’s bottom rope sinks to bottom, while the top rope rises toward the surface, thereby keeping the net taut top to bottom. In between is a monofilament mesh pattern with thousands of small openings for fish to swim into, then get caught by their gills upon trying to retreat.

The art of “hanging” nets is knowing the spacing of how many meshes to put in a certain interval depending on the species and size of fish targeted, then securing (hanging) the mesh on ropes.

•GrandPortageStatePark&WelcomeCenter

• Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center (Gunflint Trail)

Formoreinformation-visitonlineat:

www.cookcountyhistory.org/passport-to-the-past-program

• Grand Portage National Monument & Heritage Center

• Grand Portage State Park & Welcome Center

Programfundedinpartby VisitCookCounty

For more information - visit online at: www.cookcountyhistory.org/passport-to-the-past-program

Low-tech netting still has a legal season in Minnesota, and you don’t need a Garmin Livescope to do it. In fact, the beauty of whitefish netting is in its simplicity. Netting these beautiful, nutritious fish is about following the ways of our ancestors, and the Indigenous, to harvest fish for sustenance.

For the Ojibwe, these fish are the adikameg—“the caribou of the water.” The whitefish—netted in the fall—were a major source of winter food for the Ojibwe, equal in importance to caribou meat. Here’s how

In Ontario waters, only dip nets may be used to pursue whitefish—a separate pursuit that involves swinging a net by hand to scoop up whitefish, usually at night, much like smelting.

Gill netting requires simple tools. For Minnesota waters, start with a gill net made by Duluth Nets. This local producer (formerly named H. Christiansen Company) was originally founded in 1886 to serve the commercial fishing industry. Yes, they have over 135 years of whitefish gill net production experience on the North Shore.

Bryan Sederberg, co-owner of Duluth Nets with his brother Derek Sederberg, says that the company’s business provides a source of cultural continuity. “We view the whitefish season as an opportunity to supply the local fishing culture that Minnesota is so well known for. We enable people to experience netting, and what it historically provided for people, especially in this area.”

A whitefish gill net runs $120 and can be purchased online or in person at Duluth Nets’ retail store in Rice Lake, MN.

The North Shore’s full-fiber broadband network, providing phone & internet service throughout Cook County. 218-663-9030 TrueNorth@arrowhead.coop www.arrowheadcoop.com Pool with 110 ft. Figure 8 Waterslide Breakfast Buffet with Waffle Bar Rooms and Suites with Whirlpools & Fireplaces High Speed Wireless Internet • Near State Parks and National Forest • Snowmobile Trail Access from Our Lot 800-634-3444 218 226-4300 blackbeachinn@grandstay.net grandstayhotels.com Black Beach Inn Family Owned Since 1947 218-475-2330 Money Exchange Parcel Pickup Duty-Free Liquor 10,000 U.S. and Canadian Souvenirs Gas www.RydensBorderStore.com

Whitefish netting Honoring our heritage

These nets are a piece of history that you can use productively today. “Historically, lead weights were tied to the bottom of the net, and simple cork floats or sponges were tied to the top,” says Sederberg. “Today, we’re using a very sophisticated braided polypropylene leadcore-style bottom rope. Same thing on the top rope, with a foam core and a braided polypropylene jacket. That makes things a lot easier on the netters.”

Now that you’ve got your net, you’ll need at least a 2-foot-tall buoy to mark your net in the water. This alerts motor boaters to avoid driving through your net with their propeller. You must also attach an identification tag with your name and address to the buoy. Nets may not be set in any water deeper than 6 feet, and cannot be set within 50 feet of another net. Finally, a person may not have any angling equipment (rod and reel) in their possession while netting.

Anchor each end of the 100-foot-long net to the bottom with a rock or other heavy weight, and make sure the net is stretched to the fullest for proper tension.

Now that you’ve got the equipment, you need to learn strategy. You’re aiming for rocky reefs where whitefish come to spawn. The season runs roughly late October through early December, but varies from lake to lake, so follow the netting “schedule” released each October by the DNR.

The DNR website explains the reasoning behind each lake having its own schedule: “The DNR bases netting schedules on expected water temperatures, fish abundance and the vulnerability of game fish. As the water temperature cools, game fish head to deeper water and whitefish and cisco come to shallow water for fall spawning. Netting is allowed when there is little chance that game fish populations would be harmed by recreational netting in shallow water. Game fish incidentally taken in nets must be returned to the water immediately.”

Once you’ve chosen a location, you need to get out on the water. This is easier said than done in late fall. Netting from a canoe is a challenging endeavor in fierce Novem-

| CHRIS PASCONE

ber winds. Conversely, you can wait until ice forms on the lake, and take your chances walking on first ice. This method will require using a hand-powered ice saw to open a hole to deploy the net through. Either way, be prepared for cold hands, whipping winds, and lots of wet, icy equipment. A pair of insulated, rubber gloves can be critical.

Nets are deployed in late afternoon, and left in the water overnight, to catch the whitefish swimming through their spawning grounds. Nets may not be set or lifted between sunset and sunrise.

The next morning, the anticipation runs incredibly high as you paddle out, or brave the ice, to go check your net. It’s an entirely different feeling than fishing with a rod and reel. You’ve been “fishing” all night long— back in your cozy shelter on shore. You lift the net with great expectation, and can often feel the weight of the fish even before you can see them. You may even observe the net “moving”—a tell-tale sign that there are fish in the net. When netting through clear fresh ice, you may see the golden forms of the whitefish swimming below you, trying unsuccessfully to get unstuck from the net.

Ruurd Schoolderman, a netter from Duluth, says that whitefish netting is a good excuse to get out in the shoulder season, when most people are either in the woods hunting, or sitting at home on the couch. He highlights that whitefish “are a different species that are hard to target in other times of the year. It’s one of the best game fish you can eat.”

Schoolderman adds that netting is “for the hearty,” and requires some calculated risks. It’s a type-two fun that requires mental preparation to prepare for different conditions you may encounter, such as high winds or early ice. “OK, how am I going to approach this? On our last trip, we had a plan A, B, and C, and we had to go over all the different scenarios to find an approach that worked,” says Schoolderman.

Keeping the whitefish netting tradition alive is a way to get connected with our past, provide extremely healthy fare for the dinner table, and gain a rewarding heritage experience.—Chris

Pascone

Whitefish netting is a lot of work, with even bigger rewards.

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The Care Center at North Shore Health is a wonderful place to start your health care career as a CNA. We offer an OnTrack online program with a hybrid-flexible schedule. Come here to develop your skills and clinical experience. We will pay for your course (if you agree to work here). Your certification exam can be done from this facility. You can use a computer in our training room, or in the nearby Higher Education building. Plus, you can start working as a paid student during your training! There is a Sign-On bonus available as well, based on working a specific number of hours. For those with continuing education interests, we can help you with scholarship opportunities! If you are on the fence about going back to work or coming out of retirement, this is a great opportunity to work occasional shifts, or full time if you prefer. We would be happy to answer your questions.

Top seven fall North Shore hikes

NORTH SHORE—This year, fall graced the North Shore by the end of August, arriving a tad earlier than expected. The premature sprinkling of vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds provided a delightful treat for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, who reveled in the early onset of autumnal splendor.

Fall is a busy time of year along the North Shore as residents and visitors lace up their hiking boots to explore the area’s captivating, colorful wilderness. With an abundance of hiking trails dotting the landscape between Duluth and Thunder Bay, we’ve curated a list of the top seven must-see fall hikes along the North Shore to help you make the most of this stunning season.

DEVIL’S KETTLE

Distance: 2 miles

Route: Out & Back

Difficulty: Moderate Waterfalls and fall colors, what more could you ask for? Devil’s Kettle, located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, just east of Grand Marais, is a triedand-true North Shore destination. The trail meanders along the Brule River to the first awe-inspiring waterfall stop at Upper Falls. Farther down the trail, 193 steps to be exact, is the mysterious Devil’s Kettle. While the views and the descent are certainly worth it, be prepared to climb those nearly 200 steps after soaking in the waterfall views.

MAGNETIC ROCK

Distance: 3.2 miles

Route: Out & Back Difficulty: Easy

A fall day in Cook County is only complete with a drive up the Gunflint Trail. While there are a handful of adventurous hikes along the Gunflint to explore, including the Centennial Trail and Kekekabic Trail, Magnetic Rock provides a unique geological perspective of the northern Minnesota landscape. Most of the 3-mile trail consists of solid rock and offers numerous viewpoints to enjoy the fall colors and surrounding lakes. The main draw of the hike is a 60-foot magnetic rock towering above the terrain. Remember to bring your compass and test its magnetism.

LAKE AGNES

Distance: 2.2 miles

Route: Out & Back

Difficulty: Moderate

Lake Agnes is a fantastic fall hike on the west end of Cook County. The trail to access the East Lake Agnes Campground via the Superior Hiking Trail is 3 miles up the Caribou Trail in Lutsen. Hop on the Superior Hiking Trail and head west to reach Lake Agnes. The trail then follows the north side of the lakeshore until climbing to the overlook at Hunters Rock. Pack a lunch or your fishing pole and savor a fall day with family or friends by the lake.

TETTEGOUCHE LAKE LOOP

Distance: 5.3 miles

Route: Loop Difficulty: Moderate If you’re looking for a longer fall hike along the North Shore, the Tettegouche Lake Loop is a great, moderately challenging option. The trail is within Tettegouche State Park near Silver Bay and begins at the Tettegouche State Park parking lot along Lax Lake Road. Throughout the 5.3 miles, the trail gains nearly 900 feet in elevation as it circles Tettegouche Lake. Enjoy scenic views from the overlook of the lake, Palisade Valley, and nearby Mt. Baldy. Continue the fall adventures in the state park by visiting Shovel Point and the Baptism River afterward.

SPLIT ROCK RIVER LOOP

Distance: 5.1 miles

Contact our Education Coordinator: 218-387-3295

PINCUSHION MOUNTAIN OVERLOOK TRAIL

Distance: 3.8 miles

Route: Out & Back Difficulty: Easy

The Superior Hiking Trail is a staple of the North Shore. The entire 310 miles of the dynamic hiking trail offers some of the best vantage points of Lake Superior and the northland. A well-known trail in Grand Marais to do just that is the Pinchusion Mountain Overlook Trail. The nearly 4-mile hike traverses the Superior National Forest until it reaches the vast rock overlook looming over Grand Marais.

ELY’S PEAK

Distance: 1.7 miles

Route: Out & Back

Difficulty: Moderate

Ely’s Peak is a favorite in the Duluth area, regardless of the season. While there are many routes to reach Ely’s Peak, the shortest is by parking at the Munger Trail trailhead off Becks Road and 123rd Ave W. Once leaving the trailhead, head east along the Willard Munger State Trail and then hop on the Superior Hiking Trail. The best way to enjoy the hike and surrounding Duluth views is to begin your trek early in the morning and watch the sunrise illuminating the autumnal colors.

Route: Loop Difficulty: Moderate Farther down the shore and tucked within the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is the Split Rock River Loop trail for moderate to challenging hiking enthusiasts. The trail features vast overlooks of Lake Superior and Split Rock Lighthouse and has plenty of satisfying opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant fall colors. About a half-mile into the hike, the trail meets the Superior Hiking Trail. Expect various sections to be hilly and rocky. Fortunately, after trudging through the challenging terrain, the trail reaches two waterfalls and continues to parallel the river, providing plenty of cooling-off possibilities.

OBERG MOUNTAIN

Distance: 2.3 miles

Route: Loop Difficulty: Moderate With its expansive views and numerous overlooks of the Superior National Forest and Lake Superior, Oberg Mountain is a popular hiking trail for many during the fall season. The hike begins with an initial ascent, but then weaves its way through aspen and maple forests and offers ample overlook opportunities to rest and enjoy a water or snack break. The reward at the end is well worth it.— Kalli Hawkins

Author Kalli Hawkins with her nephew Jaime on the Oberg Mountain Trail overlook.

Dorothy Molter Museum celebrates 30 years

ELY—Across the remote regions of northern Minnesota and the United States, as well as Canada, numerous women have forged a path into untamed landscapes, reshaping the concepts of independence, self-sufficiency, and societal norms.

Dorothy Molter, commonly known in the Ely area of Minnesota and far beyond as the “Root Beer Lady,” is a prime example of one of these women.

From an early age, Molter sought out non-traditional activities and roles. As she was pursuing a nursing degree rather than a hand in marriage, she spent a college break vacationing with her family at a resort at Isle of the Pines on Knife Lake, located along the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, within what is now the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Little did she know at the time that the resort would become a centerpiece of her life and ignite a lifelong passion for an independent outdoor lifestyle.

After returning to Isle of the Pines resort each year to work alongside owner Bill Berglund, Molter eventually took over the resort and spent more than 56 years living on Isle of the Pines, offering solace and refreshing root beer to passersby.

“One of the things that I find especially rewarding is that Dorothy’s story is unique, interesting, and inspiring,” said Dorothy Molter Museum executive director Jess Edberg. “How she came from a big city, and really connected with the Northwoods and found herself and found what she was passionate about.”

Throughout her years living on Isle of the Pines, she faced many challenges as she adapted to the regulatory changes of the 1964 Wilderness Act and, shortly after, the creation of the BWCAW in 1978.

Despite these regulatory changes, the U.S. Forest Service allowed Molter to reside on the island, but following the formation of the

BWCAW, her resort operations had to cease. Eventually, with the help of her friends who rallied behind her, the U.S. Forest Service granted her lifetime tenancy until she passed away in December of 1986.

Her unwavering determination, tenacity, and kind spirit inspired many who journeyed through the region or assisted in delivering supplies. She forged numerous meaningful connections over her 56 years of residing in the secluded wilderness. These enduring relationships and friendships would ultimately pave the way for establishing the Dorothy Molter Museum after her passing.

The following winter in 1987, Molter’s friends organized a memorial snowmobile ride to Isle of the Pines with a one-day permit approved by the U.S. Forest Service. Shortly after, the U.S. Forest Service planned to remove Molter’s structures and personal items and return the island to its natural state to blend into the wilderness character of the BWCAW. Fortunately, Molter’s devoted friends took the initiative to gain permission to salvage and preserve Molter’s cabins and personal belongings. Due to the remoteness and non-motorized laws, the process proved arduous. Numerous volunteers and stakeholders became involved in the project, including the City of Ely, the Minnesota Historical Society, the Outward Bound School, and the Northern Tier High Adventure Boy Scouts of America.

“It was a 100 percent volunteer effort,” Edberg said.

Eventually, Molter’s cabins and belongings were transported 30 miles away to Ely. Shortly after, the friends group formed a nonprofit called the Dorothy Molter Memorial Foundation. Then, with a bit more hard work, they opened the Dorothy Molter Museum on May 6, 1993—Molter’s birthday.

Edberg, who has been with the Dorothy Molter Museum since 2014, hopes visitors recognize that Molter was “more than just

the root beer.” While that was a big part of her story, she admires Molter for her independence and perseverance and because she was doing what made her happy and, by doing so, made other people happy. In addition, she wishes that visitors learn more about the complex history of the creation of the Boundary Waters. “I really think it’s important for people to understand that,” Edberg said.

Edberg said it has been a long and trying road to create the Dorothy Molter Museum, but they are grateful to be celebrating their 30th anniversary this year. To celebrate the milestone, the museum held three open houses during the summer, including a root beer-making demo, anniversary buttons, and a showing of a documentary featuring Molter’s life at the Ely State Theatre with a special guest panel discussion afterwards. Also, the museum recently added a new exhibit panel focused on how Molter became known as the “Root Beer Lady.”

Reflecting on Molter’s legacy, Edberg said she is an inspiration for young people who are trying to figure out their place in life and perhaps break outside of expectations or set rules. “She’s kind of a role model in a way for folks to show that you can do these things too.”—

Kalli Hawkins

Presentations

Saturday, Oct. 7, 2 – 3:00 p.m.

Layne Kennedy, Influences of Photography and the Process

Saturday, Oct. 14, 2 – 4:00 p.m.

History Group Presentation, Arrowhead Center for the Arts

Saturday, Oct. 14, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm $45

Geology of the End of the Gunflint Trail with John Craddock

55

Dorothy Molter is also commonly known as the “Root Beer Lady.” | SUBMITTED

Located in Ely, the Dorothy Molter Museum is celebrating 30 years. | SUBMITTED

COOK COUNTY—What do Cook County residents think about their internet access?

On behalf of the Department of Employment and Economic Development Office of Broadband Development (OBD), Wilderness Health listened and surveyed Cook County residents as part of a statewide plan to understand the stories behind internet and digital access.

Of the 141 respondents in Cook County, both online and in person, over 23 percent said their largest issue with technology was their lack of digital skills. These experiences with technology included wanting more training, lacking training and experience, and feeling technology moved too fast for them to keep up with.

Nearly a quarter (23 percent) of respondents said their home internet was disconnected for five days or more due to a technical problem, bad weather, or other reason, and 20 percent of participants listed expensive internet as their main access issue. Not having the internet means not having access to digital resources and connections, like healthcare. Twenty-six percent said they used the internet to access healthcare services once a week, and 39 percent used telehealth once a week. Telehealth is especially useful in rural areas when the transportation from home to the clinic can be time and/or cost prohibitive.

There was a discrepancy among respondents—45 percent said they could use telehealth very easily, but 29 percent preferred in-person healthcare appointments. It shows that while people still prefer face to face conversations, they recognize the value and convenience of telehealth.

The importance of libraries and community spaces for internet, devices, and tech help was a common theme among Wilderness Health’s conversations and data. The most commonly used places for the internet (other than one’s home) were libraries (34 percent), followed by community centers (20 percent). If you’re looking for device rental and internet resources, Lighthouse Center for Vital Living (lcfvl.org) provides device loans and training in northeastern Minnesota.

Internet infrastructure, technology skills, and devices are now more integral to healthcare than ever before, and the conversation to make them more accessible is not over. You can read a draft of the digital opportunity plan (shorturl.at/iuP57) or ask your local library for a copy.—Chance Lasher

Moose-y Fun!

Every October, Cook County businesses come together to celebrate one of the North Shore’s favorite animals, the moose. Stop at these participating businesses October 20th and 21st for some moose-y fun.

Across

2. One name for a moose’s specialized upper lip

4. Part of the moose that is one of the fastest growing tissues in nature

6. Moose are really good at this, even as calves

7. Moose have four of these

Down

1. Outer layer of antlers that is shed when growth stops

3. One of the major threats to moose populations

5. Sometimes removed from moose by small birds and mammals

One name of a moose's specialized upper lip

Part of the moose that is one of the fastest growing tissues in nature

Moose are really good at this, even as calves

Moose have four of these

Down

1. Outer layer of antlers that is shed when stops

3. One of the major threats to moose populations

5. Sometimes removed from moose by mammals

Moose Facts

Moose have a specialized upper lip called a “bell” or “dewlap” that helps to grasp and strip leaves from branches. They have four stomachs, like cows, that help them ferment and digest tough plant material.

Moose have a hump made of muscle that helps them use their massive head to push through snow. Their long noses are an adaptation to help warm the winter air before it makes it to their lungs.

Other than natural predators, the biggest threats to moose populations are brainworm, tick infestations, and road traffic.

Moose

Moose antlers are some of the fastest growing tissues in the entire animal kingdom. The velvet provides blood and nutrients during their growth period.

The moose is loose in Cook County! Find information about the event and its fun activities, including scavenger hunts, quizzes, games and more at VISITCOOKCOUNTY.COM/MOOSE-MADNESS

CREATING the Superior Hiking Trail

A Journey of Triumphs and Challenges

By Rudi Hargesheimer

The Superior Hiking Trail®, literally having more ups and downs per mile than most long trails in the U.S., features approximately 80,000 feet of elevation changes in its 300mile length. The story of how this trail came to be, from nothing at all in 1986 to today’s much-heralded high ranking among the nation’s longest trails, has had many ups and downs, too. This short article sheds light on that history, a remarkable story of intergovernmental agencies and volunteer-based triumph.

Back in 1980, there was a short trail near Tofte, built by the Superior National Forest. It was dubbed the “Superior Trail.” On July 20, 1986, the Minneapolis Star Tribune featured an article headlined “Group proposes 186-mile hiking trail for Lake Superior ridgeline.” Certainly, the author, Dean Rebuffoni, and any number of the people in this group never knew that their theoretical trail, an extension of the original short trail, would expand to 300 miles in length.

The members of the group, called the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA), included Lee Scharr, who worked at the Tofte U.S. Forest Service ranger station. He wrote a Clemson University thesis paper that suggested the feasibility of building a long trail crossing multiple jurisdictions— an unheard-of notion in Minnesota at the time. The challenge the association accepted was to coordinate various land management agencies, primarily the Minnesota DNR State Parks Division and Superior Nation-

al Forest, state forests, and counties, plus many small private landowners with the help of volunteers from the hiking community, to endorse and then build a new footpath. It would follow the Lake Superior first ridgeline, encompassing tremendous views of both the big lake and smaller interior lakes; connect seven state parks; cross dozens of streams slicing through canyons and tumbling over waterfalls; and ultimately be finished in just a few years. In 1986, Scharr stated, “When this trail is completed, in approximately four years, its future will rest on the ability of volunteers to maintain its entire 200-mile length.”

Thirty-one years later, in 2017, the trail was “finished,” linking not only those seven state parks but also an eighth park, Jay Cooke State Park. It passed through a major city, Duluth, and extended 300 miles, from Wisconsin to Canada.

The first order of business in 1986 was for the association to hire someone to oversee the process. Fresh off his stint as the DNR’s builder of the North Shore State Trail, a snowmobile trail, Tom Peterson was the logical choice. He knew the North Shore terrain better than anyone. Years later, Peterson fondly remembered, “I was in the right place at the right time. It was a dream job. I got paid to walk around in the woods. I actually worked for two bosses, the SHTA and the DNR. In effect that made me the boss. I pretty much wrote my own job description.”

His salary was paid thanks to the newly formed SHTA, which requested and received grant money from the Legislative Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCMR). The commission allocated funds to various state agencies from a large pool of cigarette tax and lottery proceeds. At the time, the SHTA needed to convince the commission that the money would be well spent on an environmental awareness cause. No new, untested non-profit organization had ever asked for such a grant. But as John Velin, the LCMR director, later confided, “It was a slam dunk; we loved that project.”

Peterson wandered the hills with a topo map, a compass, and a pencil. Modern mapping tools like GPS did not exist. He drew lines on his maps, and as Anne McKinsey,

an early SHTA board member and president, wrote, “Tom’s insistence on finding the best river crossing, the most satisfying falls or canyon view, the most ancient tree, the coolest cedar grove, and the most interesting geological feature, is evident in every step of the trail.”

Of course, Peterson did not build the trail alone. Right away, he took advantage of the state’s Minnesota Conservation Corps (MCC). Crews of young adults carved the trail out of the wilderness. They were paid minimum wage but loved the work; for many of them it was a stepping stone leading to professions in nature and the outdoors. Peterson also availed himself of a sordid situation in Silver Bay. Reserve Mining had shut down the taconite pro -

A view from Oberg Mountain in the fall. | RUDI HARGESHEIMER

The new Devil Track River bridge in 1992, with SHTA President Ann McKinsey standing on the bridge. | RUDI HARGESHEIMER

Every step of the trail was a great story, led to phenomenal views, and became an instant hiker favorite.

cessing plant, and laid-off mine workers were looking for ways to make ends meet. Peterson’s “veteran crew” were all elderly in age, but hardworking. “I loved those old guys,” he quipped, adding that they could outperform the much younger, more able-bodied MCC crews.

For many years, the highs far exceeded the lows in the trail-building experience. When Peterson appeared at SHTA board meetings he always had the same story: “That section we built last week is the best one yet.” Every step of the trail was a great story, led to phenomenal views, and became an instant hiker favorite.

By 1993, the LCMR money well ran dry and Peterson went on to build the Mesabi Range Trail.

SHTA volunteers were then the principal trail builders and maintainers of the Superior Hiking Trail. Select, smaller grants helped along the way when professional labor was needed. The trail has been divided into 83 separate segments, each with its own volunteer maintenance person or group. Contracted experts coordinate hundreds of volunteers on many projects each year. Individual campsites are adopted by volunteers, as are the trailhead parking areas. Volunteers are key—the 300-mile trail may be “finished” but the work is never done.

Today, the SHTA is very lucky to have financial assistance from the LCCMR (the extra C is for Citizen’s) and many other benevolent grant-donating sources. Within state parks and the Superior National Forest, much labor and many materials are covered by these grants.

However, despite a mostly rosy picture of the past, there are also stories of woe. In the immediate Grand Marais area, several come to mind. The Superior Hiking Trail was initially allowed to utilize the pre-existing Pincushion Mountain Cross Country Ski Area trails—a bad idea! Winter walkers were ruining the groomed trails. That experience was eventually overcome when the SHTA hired Dirt Candy, the Grand Marais-based trail-building team of Adam and Mica Harju. With a variety of grant monies and help from the local North Superior Ski and Run Club, a wonderful reroute was built in 2020. The area traversed was wet and necessitated an extensive boardwalk, but the result is beautiful.

Another Grand Marais lowlight was the exceptionally hard task of building the bridge over the Devil Track River. This is Peterson’s favorite story to retell. The very heavy and large timbers had to be dropped down into the canyon manually. Then, they had to be lifted high to create the A-frame structure. No one knew how to do it! So, as Peterson’s story goes, “I found an old guy, can’t remember his name, never seen him since—Finnish, I think, a long-retired farmer/logger.” His expertise in ‘old school’ coaxing of gear and weird contraptions that Peterson could not even pronounce did the trick. The bridge is now a highlight of the trail.

Yet another Devil Track River story is worth telling. Peterson felt lucky to get permission to cross a critical piece of privately owned land at the bottom of the canyon. It was a ‘crux move;’ the only way up and out of the canyon was on this land. All was well until the owner wanted to sell. He did not

want the SHTA lease to hamper a buyer’s motivation to step in. Thankfully, the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota (PTCM) saved the day. This member-based organization is responsible for many additions to parks and trails throughout the state. They buy land, transfer ownership to DNR parks and trails, and thus recoup their expenses. The pool of money can then be used for the next big project. Land transactions can easily exceed one million dollars. This transaction was small in comparison to most others, but in this case, there was no state park nearby to sell the land to, so there was no way to recoup the expense. Nonetheless, PTCM bought the property with help from a fundraising effort by the SHTA. PTCM still owns the land, so the trail easement is secure.

Another story of interest to current hikers might be the “lost” Superior Hiking

Trail segments. The trail formerly went to the top of a downhill ski area in Grand Marais, to Mount Josephine, directly into Two Harbors, and into Gooseberry Falls State Park (although as of last year, the main trail no longer enters the park). It is an interesting story.

As mentioned before, today, volunteers are key to the trail’s success. You can find a list of volunteer work projects online at: superiorhiking.org. Helpers of all abilities are welcome, so don’t be shy. The SHTA publishes a guidebook, trail atlas maps, and a trail data book.

For more stories that relate the ups and downs of the Superior Hiking Trail, you can read my book, The Superior Hiking Trail Story, The Trek Continues. It includes over 350 color photos and hundreds of trail register hiker quotations. The book is available at many stores along the North Shore, as well as from the Superior Hiking Trail Association and my website: northshorephotoart.com.

Use of the registered trademark ‘Superior

Hiking Trail’ name has been permitted by the Superior Hiking Trail Association.

Tom Peterson (right) measuring trail mileage, while Mark Wester takes notes. | SHTA ARCHIVE

Today, volunteers are key to the trail’s success. Shown here is Pincushion Mountain. | RUDI HARGESHEIMER

[LEFT] New 2020 boardwalk leading to Pincushion Mountain. [RIGHT] Today, the Superior Hiking Trail spans 300 miles and includes amazing views, such as this overlook of Wolf Lake. | RUDI HARGESHEIMER

The Elusive Canada Lynx A Gift of the Boreal Forest

By Cheryl Lyn Dybas • Photos by Ilya Raskin

Rainbow arcs above Treasure waiting very near: Lynx in autumn light.

Shadow in the Forest

The forest has eyes. And somewhere in an October dawn that rises over Lake County, just south of the Canadian border, they’re watching.

The eyes of the Canada lynx, an elusive northern forest cat, have the advantage in thick boreal, or northern spruce-fir, forest. They see without being seen. “Keeper of the secrets of the forest,” the lynx is called by Native Americans. Don’t look for a lynx, others say; a lynx must find you. And so it turns out to be.

Voices muffled by parka collars, our small group of naturalists sets out from Ely in search of moose. But the Northwoods offers gifts of its own choosing, and today’s will be feline, not ungulate.

Fall colors turn Lake County’s wooded hills and mountains a palette from crimson to flame to gold. Our 4x4 bumps along Little Manitou Road, then rounds a corner between Isabella and Finland. A rainbow arcs overhead, a reminder of a brief rain shower

just minutes earlier. Suddenly, there’s movement in the trees and we screech to a halt, thinking we’ve spotted a bobcat.

in mud or snow, often visible only to those trained to track them. But today a lynx has indeed found us.

Ever closer it moves, rustling through the alders as it makes its way through piles of broken tree limbs and over logs on the forest floor. Then the thicket opens and translucent green eyes meet ours. The eyes of a creature so solitary and shy it’s rarely seen in the wild. Long black ear tufts stand straight up. In a moment suspended in time, lynx and forest meld, becoming one.

Cat-of-the-Snows

Creeping forward for a better look, we’re enveloped in boreal forest silence, a soundlessness so complete we might be astronauts walking in the blue emptiness of space. We cautiously step out, edging a few feet toward a thicket of firs and alders. Just at the edge of sight is an animal that’s rarer than a bobcat: a Canada lynx.

Canada lynx range across Alaska, Canada, and the northernmost part of the contiguous U.S. No other cat-of-the-snows has long, dense fur, triangular ears with black tufts at the tips, and huge paws.

Lynx roam boreal forests in a hindquarters up, head down posture. Circling around lakes and alder swamps, they leave pawprints

Here in The Boreal, as it’s known, lynx appear to have it all: their main prey, snowshoe hares; the brushy woods the hares prefer; and the deep winter snows to which lynx and hares have adapted. Both have thick cushions of hair on the soles of their large feet, which act like snowshoes.

Where there’s boreal forest, there are snowshoe hares and lynx. Or so it has been. Lynx were once found in 24 U.S. states but now occur in just seven, according to biologists Robby Marrotte of Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario, and Jeff Bowman of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, writing in the journal Ecology and Evolution

In addition to Minnesota, U.S. states with Canada lynx populations are Maine, New Hampshire, Montana, Idaho, Washington,

Looking out from the boreal forest edge is a green-eyed creature that’s rarer than a bobcat: a Canada lynx.

In a moment suspended in time, lynx and forest meld, becoming one.

and Colorado. The lynx is designated as threatened in the contiguous U.S. But in Canada, lynx still occupy 95 percent of their historical range. They’re provincially endangered in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, however, and have been extirpated from Prince Edward Island.

Lynx reproduction is in sync with that of their hare prey. Snowshoe hare numbers peak every 10 years, with lynx numbers reaching highs a year later. But the lynx-hare cycle isn’t as clear in the southernmost parts of these species’ range, such as Minnesota. There boreal forest begins to peter out, and with it, numbers of snowshoe hares and lynx. It’s one of the reasons for international research on the connections between Ontario and Minnesota lynx.

“During peak years, individuals venture south and colonize marginal habitat outside of the boreal forest in Ontario and eventually reach the northern Great Lakes states,” state Marrotte and Bowman.

Ambassadors of The Boreal, Minnesota lynx in search of meals or mates regularly visit their neighbors to the north in Canada. The same is true of Ontario lynx, which frequently make their way south.

Scientists on both sides of the Canada-U.S. line are working to discover how much lynx interbreeding happens, and to what extent the future of one lynx population depends upon the other, especially for lynx south of the border.

In Minnesota, lynx may number as few as 100 to 300, according to wildlife biologist John Erb of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Other states in the U.S. where lynx still exist also likely have small populations. Because lynx are so secretive, however, population estimates are just that—estimates. And whatever those numbers are today, they may not be for long.

In a warming climate, the boreal forest is shifting northward. “Soon that will become critical for Minnesota’s lynx,” says forest ecologist Lee Frelich of the University of Minnesota. “It will be crucial for lynx in Canada, too, in coming years. To see the future, Canadian wildlife biologists need only look south.”

For now, that view is of boreal forest that stretches unbroken from northern Minnesota to Ontario and beyond. Fir tree after fir tree stand for hundreds of miles like sentinels, their watch relieved only by the lakes that dot the landscape.

Emissaries of The Boreal

With expanses of boreal forest for lynx to wander, the frequency of their cross-border travels has

turned out to be much higher than scientists anticipated. One enterprising lynx swam across Saganaga Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness; the line between Canada and the U.S. runs down the middle of the lake. Biologists say that the two populations of lynx should be considered together.

Whether Minnesota had its own population of Canada lynx was long debated. In 2002, Joe Foster of Foster Logging in Isabella found proof that it does. Foster and his uncle videotaped what would become the first documentation of lynx reproduction in Minnesota: a mother lynx with young. Then in spring, 2004, and subsequent springs, scientists located lynx dens and a female lynx with kittens near Isabella. Whether lynx born in Minnesota will remain in-state, go north, or move back and forth, no one knows.

Studies to date offer a surprising hint. The success of a lynx population depends not on old-growth forest, as had long been thought, but on early successional forest—woods with trees between 10 and 30 years old. Snowshoe hares hide there in young thickets or “edgerows,” the northern wilderness equivalent of the hedgerows where suburban rabbits hop.

Sections of Lake County are at the center of a northern spruce-fir forest in early successional stages. Stands periodically harvested for timber are scattered across the region. Many have young trees springing up amid a lynx favorite: jumbles of downed branches atop scrubby undergrowth. Logging isn’t all bad for lynx, say some researchers. In many ways, they believe, it’s the modern equivalent of fires that once burned and are now often suppressed by forest management plans.

In the U.S. and Canada, it’s usually male lynx who wander farthest afield. Females, probably because they have kittens, often—but not always—have smaller territories. Lynx home ranges vary; they may stretch from three to 300 square miles. That includes across international boundaries, which mean nothing to a lynx.

In late winter, lynx border-cross in earnest, perhaps to find mates. From International Falls in Minnesota to Rainy Lake in Ontario; Quetico Provincial Park in Ontario to the Gunflint Trail in Minnesota, lynx connect Canada and the U.S.

Today’s October woods will soon become white. Where snows are deep and winters long, the Northwoods indeed has eyes, on both sides of the international line. For now. When warm winds someday blow through forests that have turned from spruce and fir to oak and maple, Minnesota’s lynx will have moved north for good, truly becoming Canada lynx.

Sprinting through the Northwoods, this Canada lynx may be chasing its main prey, a snowshoe hare.

Snowshoe hare numbers peak every 10 years, with lynx numbers at peak a year later.

Tracks of a snowshoe hare; this one likely got away.

By Breana Johnson

October Exhibitions

Many art galleries have new exhibits this month, so there’s a lot to see and do. There’s three new exhibits at the Duluth Art Institute, a massive exhibit taking up all three spaces at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, and a new Artist of the Month at the Tettegouche State Park Visitor Center.

The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is opening a new exhibition on Oct. 13 titled Radical Stitch. This cradleboard and beaded mossbag piece, titled “Continuing the Legacy,” is by Babe and Carla Hemlock. | BABE & CARLA HEMLOCK

| NAOMI HART

| NICO WILLIAMS

Kegan Moffitt is the October Artist of the Month at Tettegouche State Park in Silver Bay. A reception will be held Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. This oil on canvas piece is titled “Between the Storms.” | KEGAN MOFFITT

Also on display at the Duluth Art Institute is Above Below Within, by Sharon Dawson, open until Dec. 31. This piece is titled “My Canoe Knows the Moon.” | SHARON DAWSON

This mixed media piece, titled “The Elusive Pull of a Sense of Peace,” is part of Naomi Hart’s The Details of an Uncertain Direction exhibition at the Duluth Art Institute, on display until Nov. 30.

This piece by Nico Williams, titled “Aaniin” and made of glass beads, is part of the Radical Stitch exhibit at the Thunder Bay Gallery. An opening reception will take place Oct. 13 and the exhibit will be up until March 3.

Karin Kraemer

Art as a reflection of our culture and community

CREATIVE SPACE: By Laura Durenberger-Grunow

It’s often said that we can find the most joy in the seemingly small moments in life. But is it possible to capture those moments?

That’s exactly what Karin Kraemer, owner of Duluth Pottery, Tile and Gallery, sets out to do with her own art. Her goal is to ‘capture color and movement of the moment,’ and create pieces that people can use every day.

Using inspiration from gardening, cooking, and being in the woods, she shared that she “wants to convey the feeling of being in the garden and looking, listening to my surroundings in the moment. I want the work to bring that experience to serving and enjoying our food.” (Fans of the Duluth Grill may recognize her work in the mugs that they use and sell at the restaurant.)

Kraemer has always been making art, but it hasn’t always been pottery. In college, she got a degree in biology, and another one in art, specifically working with glass. She did glasswork in Minnesota and Wisconsin, before moving to West Virginia.

“I worked in glass until I moved to West Virginia for a couple of years. There was nowhere for me to work, so I dug clay and pit-fired pottery in my yard,” she said. It was here that Kraemer started to develop a love of working with clay, and she set out to learn additional techniques by getting involved in the clay community by working at an art studio in Morgantown, WV. Eventually, she

went back to school and received her master’s degree in fine arts in ceramics.

While she still enjoys working with glass, and tries to go “play” in her friend’s studio when she can, her love of pottery stuck. After receiving her master’s degree, Kraemer moved to Victoria, British Columbia, where she lived for two years before landing in Duluth when her partner accepted a research position at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

She started renting a studio in Superior, WI, and showed her work at fine art fairs and in galleries. Eventually, she started building a community by hosting open studio hours and creating a display area right in the shop. The work put into her studio in Superior helped create a natural transition into opening the Duluth Pottery and Tile Shop in the Lincoln Park Crafts District.

Duluth Pottery, Tile and Gallery itself is very airy and open. Visitors will find art pieces from Kraemer herself, as well as from Luke Krisak, the Warrior Printress Letterpress and Design, and others in the art community. Occasionally, they will also have a guest artist’s work on display as an exhibit, like the most recent one highlighting work by Wendy Lee Savage, an enrolled member of the Fond du Lac Reservation Lake Superior Band of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, which runs through October.

One thing that’s unique about Kraemer’s work is that she specializes in the Maiolica technique. Often seen in pieces from the Italian Renaissance time period, Maiolica is known for being white tin-glazed pottery or ceramics pieces that are handpainted. “Maiolica is a rare application in the U.S. and a great technique for those who like to decorate and paint,” she said. Because of how rare this technique is, Kraemer likes to teach workshops in schools and art centers on the topic (as well as other topics too).

While the journey has been a good one, it hasn’t always been easy. She says one of the biggest challenges in making a living as an artist is to learn to balance “creating” with the business side of things. One example Kraemer shared was about renting versus owning a studio space. “When you rent your space, it’s hard for stability and affordability. I was determined to change that when I had to leave my last studio, and bought the building we are in now.”

When asked what she would tell an artist who is trying to make art for a living, Kraemer shared that she would tell someone to: “Work. Make a schedule and keep to it. Make lots of work and try to get it out in every way you can. You will find your niche. Always explore new educational opportunities (residencies, workshops, working for other artists).”

Additionally, she added one thing that she’s shown throughout her journey, and that’s the importance of getting involved with a local community. “Work with others in your community: it will bring you to areas of opportunity. We need more art in the world.”

Good advice for all of us.

To learn more about Karin Kraemer and her work, or the Duluth Pottery, Tile and Gallery, visit: duluthpottery.com.

Duluth pottery artist Karin Kraemer specializes in the Maiolica technique, which is often seen in pieces from the Italian Renaissance time period. | SUBMITTED

Kraemer is the owner of Duluth Pottery, Tile and Gallery.

THE RUGGED ELEGANCE OF THE NORTH SHORE

CAPTURED BY ITALIAN BRAND ISAIA - AVAILABLE AT MARTINPATRICK3

MartinPatrick3 is a highly regarded international retail destination situated in the vibrant North Loop of Minneapolis. The store showcases a wide range of Men’s and Women’s apparel, including ready-to-wear pieces, custom suits, accessories, contemporary furnishings, and captivating artwork, in addition to The Loupe fine jewelry collection, offering an exquisite selection of apothecary products, modern literature, and unique gifts.

Services beyond retail inlcude the MP3 Tailor’s ensuring every garment fits perfectly, Marty’s in-house barbershop and men’s grooming, and MartinPatrick3 Studio, providing interior design services, allowing you to create a home that reflects your unique style.

The 22,000 square foot space is thoughtfully curated to create styled moments that captivate and inspire.

PUMPKINFEST

SEPT. 30-OCT. 29 Enjoy over 20 attractions at the annual Pumpkinfest at Gammondale Farm, held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Located in the Slate River Valley (near Thunder Bay), Pumpkinfest will feature a pumpkin train, Canada’s largest pumpkin catapult, pumpkin slingshots, northwestern Ontario’s largest horse, a corn cannon, farm animals, a 3-acre monster nature trail, trike trails, a barnyard maze, a “boo” barn, duck races, tire’d horses, a straw mountain, the “Needle in a Haystack” photo contest, and more. New this year is a no left turns maze, and farm hoppers. Tickets are $19.75 per person, ages 2 and up, and can be purchased online in advance. gammondalefarm.com

HIDE WEEK

OCT. 2-9 New this year, the North House Folk School in Grand Marais will host a thematic weekend exploring a key traditional craft material and process: hide and skin tanning, finishing, and sewing. Leather is a material from which humans have created some of the very items that have made life possible, including clothing, footwear, blankets, and many accessories. Hide Week will explore different tanning and sewing methods through coursework, as well as a free, day-long gathering on Friday, Oct. 6, featuring speakers, demonstrations, and com-

munity events designed to foster learning and knowledge exchange. northhouse.org

HAUNTED FORT NIGHT: MOTHER OF ALL MADNESS

OCT. 5-28 It seems that not all legends are lost to time. Sometimes legends are biding their time lurking in the shadows. To survive the encroaching darkness, you must evade the people of Williams Town who have been driven insane by the dark whispers coming from the shadows, all while confronting your own inner most demons. Only time will tell if you have the strength to stop a legend from becoming a reality once again. For over a decade, Haunted Fort Night at Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay has been offering up thrills and chills for those who dare to test their nerve. If you think you can handle this hair-raising experience, tours are offered Thursdays through Saturdays in October, starting Oct. 5. Recommended for ages 12

and up; reservations required. fwhp.ca

LUMBERJACK BASH

OCT. 6, FRIDAY Come celebrate the days of logging in Cook County at the 2nd annual Heritage Gathering Lumberjack Bash, sponsored by the Cook County Historical Society. Guests will be able to taste authentic logging camp cuisine and dance to the tunes of the swing band. The evening will feature a presentation by local logger Marco Good, logging camp displays, dancing, games, and prizes. The fundraiser will take place from 6-9 p.m. at the Cook County Community Center in Grand Marais, and tickets can be purchased online. cookcountyhistory.org

THE GUNFLINT SCRAMBLE

OCT. 7, SATURDAY A new mountain bike event, the Gunflint Scramble, is coming to the Gunflint Trail. Organized by Bearskin Lodge and Outfitters, the 20-mile race will

utilize some of the renowned cross-country ski trails that are a part of the Central Gunflint Ski Trail network, as well as gravel roads. This new event will be the first competitive bike race to occur on the Gunflint Trail. Registration will be limited to 100 riders this year and the race will start at 10 a.m. On the 20-mile course, participants can expect to find a mix of gravel roads, mowed ski trails, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning boreal forest views. gunflintscramble.com

JAKE FORSMAN MEMORIAL CAR SHOW & BURNOUT COMPETITION

OCT. 7, SATURDAY The 7th annual Jake Forsman Memorial Car Show and Burnout Competition, held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Ely, will feature a traditional car show with a unique mix of classic and modified cars, as well as an optional burnout contest. Held on Chapman Street in front of City Hall, there will also be a silent auction, merchandise tent, raffle drawings, kid’s activities, awards, and more. Admission is free to attend ($10 per entry) and all proceeds benefit the Jake Forsman Memorial Scholarship for area youth pursuing a career in the mechanical and building trades. elycarshow.org

The North End Nightmare in Superior, held Saturday, Oct. 28, offers fun for the whole family. | SUBMITTED

Try shooting the pumpkin catapult at Pumpkinfest. | SUBMITTED

HARVEST BOOYA FESTIVAL

OCT. 7, SATURDAY The annual Harvest Booya Festival has been a 29year tradition in Finland of celebrating community and serving a traditional booya stew. Held at the Clair Nelson Center, this year’s celebration features live music, great food, local vendors and crafters, agricultural demonstrations such as apple pressing, and more. Harvest Booya Festival will take place from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. facebook. com/finlandbooya

CLEAN ENERGY COMMUNITY TOUR

OCT. 15, SUNDAY Join the Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) for a free Clean Energy Community Tour, starting at the Grand Marais Public Library at 1 p.m. Enjoy a presentation titled, “Home, Green Home: Keeping Cook County Clean and Saving you Money.” Then, at 2 p.m., tour local solar array systems and air source heat pumps from various locations, including the North House Folk School, Great Expectations, a local residence, and the Grand Marais Public Library,

showcasing clean energy technologies they have installed. Admission is free to attend, but registration is required. cookcountylocalenergy.org

THUNDER BAY EMPTY BOWLS

Betsy Bowen

Studio & Gallery

301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 218-387-1992

Original woodcuts, books, cards, local pottery and more.

OCT. 15, SUNDAY The 24th annual Thunder Bay Empty Bowls fundraiser is back inside for a sit-down meal for the first time since 2019. Located at Moose Hall, enjoy a simple meal of soup and bread donated by local restaurants and community organiza-

tions, and take home your choice of a locally-made handcrafted pottery bowl donated by local potters, including many from the Thunder Bay Potters’ Guild. There will also be an onsite 50/50 lottery, a penny auction, and a food drive for the Shelter House pantry. The doors open at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is at 6 p.m. Or, purchase a takeout meal, available from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or at various Thunder Bay locations. emptybowlsthunderbay.com

THE SENIOR GO SHOW

OCT. 17, TUESDAY Today’s seniors and soon-to-be seniors are active; they are still working, having fun, helping raise their children’s children, vacationing, crafting, building, buying—they are still going. Located at the Duluth Decc, the Go Show will help you find all the information you need as you get older. Visit with over 100 exhibitors featuring not just information on getting older, but getting old and still going, whether it’s traveling, remodeling, finding new hobbies, or just having fun with the grandkids. Held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., there will be live music, free samples and services,

Betsy Bowen

Studio & Gallery

301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 218-387-1992

Betsy Bowen

Studio & Gallery

Two blocks uphill from Buck’s.

301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 218-387-1992

Original woodcuts, books, cards, local pottery and more.

Two blocks uphill from Buck’s.

Original woodcuts, books, cards, local pottery and more.

Two blocks uphill from Buck’s.

Open 11-5 daily thru Oct. 21 woodcut.com

Open 11-5 daily thru Oct. 21 woodcut.com

books, cards, local pottery and more. Two blocks uphill from Buck’s.

Open 11-5 daily thru Oct. 21 woodcut.com

Be sure to dress up for Terror in the Bay Film Festival’s “Blood Red Carpet” photo shoot. | SUBMITTED

guest speakers, prizes, and more. Free tickets are available at participating vendor locations. goshowexpo.com

TERROR IN THE BAY FILM FESTIVAL

OCT. 18-21 Northwestern Ontario’s top horror-themed film festival is back for its seventh year in Thunder Bay, held from 7-11 p.m. nightly at the Maple Tops Paramount Theatre. Each night, different horror films from around the world will be screened— from feature films to music videos. Other features include the “Blood Red Carpet” photo shoot, a food concession stand, local vendor tables, and more. Guests are encouraged to dress up in costumes and prizes will be awarded on Saturday for best costumes. Tickets can be purchased online. terrorinthebay.com

MOOSE MADNESS FESTIVAL

OCT. 20-21 A moose is loose in Grand Marais during the Moose Madness family festival, hosted by Visit Cook County. This annual event is the ultimate family-focused celebration of all things moose. Enjoy the outdoors and learn a few facts about the area’s celebrated mascot along the way with fun activities, scavenger hunts, quizzes, and more. A full schedule of events can be found online. visitcookcounty.com

BOO AT THE ZOO

OCT. 14, 21, & 28 Head to the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth for Boo at the Zoo, held on Saturday, Oct. 14, Oct. 21, and Oct. 28 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bring the whole family

Crafts Music -Fun!

and explore the zoo with endless trick-ortreating stations, a boo-tique craft show, special Halloween-themed animal treats, food trucks, games and activities, a magic show, a mini pumpkin hunt, a pumpkin patch, costume contests, and more. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Day-of tickets are $16 per person, or $12 if purchased in advance (non-members); ages 2 and under are free. lszooduluth.org

NORTH END NIGHTMARE 5K

OCT. 28, SATURDAY Grab your family and friends and dress up for this 3.1-mile race on the streets of Superior, held at 11 a.m. The course starts and finishes near Earth Rider Brewery and it features several specified “scare zones” with Halloween-themed decorations, some of which will also feature live actors in costume and character. The start and finish area has plenty of activities for before and after your race, including a trick-or-treat area for kids, and a haunted garage. The event also offers the Spider Dash Kids’ Races at 12:30 p.m., which are free and open to all kids ages 14 and under. All participants are invited to enter the costume contest—prizes will be awarded to the winners. Registration required for both races. grandmasmarathon.com

THE HUNGER

OCT. 28, SATURDAY If it’s Halloween, then it must be The Hunger. Held downtown Thunder Bay as a fundraiser for Definitely Superior Art Gallery, the 16th annual Hunger Halloween festival features 60

performance acts—including 42 bands and DJs—taking place at nine venues/ stages, including The Foundry, Red Lion Smokehouse, The Sovereign Room, Black Pirates Pub, Paramount Theatre (two ven ues/levels in one), and more. There will be thousands in costume contest prizes at all locations, so be sure to dress up. The party goes from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. and a cover charge of $20 gets you into all nine venues. definitelysuperior.com

READERS & WRITERS FEST

NOV. 1-4 The Grand Marais Art Colony’s North Shore Readers and Writers Festival is a biennial event that locates, celebrates, and fosters the literary arts and engagement with the written word. There will be classes, panel discussions, special events, author readings, dinner discussions, an exhibitors’ hall, and more. This year’s invited authors include Brenda Child, Rebecca Foust, David Mura, Michael Torres, Mona Susan Power, Danny Klecko, Carolyn Holbrook, Kate St. Vincent Vogl, and more. The Exhibitors’ Hall, located at Studio 21, will feature several Minnesota book professionals and presses, including Holy Cow! Press and the University of Minnesota Press. Registration required to attend. grandmaraisartcolony.org

Visit or pick your own apples at three orchards in town: Ray Block’s, Stan Bautch’s, Grand Marias Community Orchard

Learn apple cider pressing

• Oct 20 6-8 @ NorthHouse

• Oct 21, 10-4 @ Ray Blocks Orchard

Enjoy apple treats

Take home apples, Crosby Bakery apple pies, other apple goodies from the Community Orchard Oct 21, 10-4

5 th YEAR SPONSORED & ORGANIZED BY

Even the animals get in on the fun at Boo at the Zoo in Duluth. | SUBMITTED

Say hi to Murray the Moose during Moose Madness. | SUBMITTED

Appleseed Project

OCTOBER

NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thru Oct. 1

Art Along the Lake: Fall Studio Tour 10 a.m. Throughout Cook County, visitcookcounty.com/fallstudiotour

Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

Thru Oct. 7

Elucidate: 35th Annual Regional Juried Show Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com

Contemporary 15: International Collection: Dr. Bob Chaudhuri Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com

Hito Steyerl: International Film: How Not to Be Seen Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com

Thru Oct. 14

Out There: Saabe Dream Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Thru Oct. 15

Culture Days Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/culturedays

Plein Air Exhibition Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Thru Oct. 21

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

Thru Oct. 31

Now That Summer Has Ended: An Exhibit

About Winter Activities During the Fur Trade Era Grand Portage National Monument, visitcookcounty.com/events

Lake Superior Watercolor Society Exhibit Cedar Coffee Company, Two Harbors, lakesuperiorwatercolor.com

Thru Nov. 30

Naomi Hart: The Details of an Uncertain Direction Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Thru Dec. 31

Sharon Dawson: Above Below Within Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Thru Jan. 8

Michelle Wegler & Cheryl LeClair Sommer: We Are Water Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, glaquarium.org

Sept. 28-Oct. 21

Meet My Sister Magnus Theatre: Outdoor Stage, Thunder Bay, magnustheatre.com

Sept. 30-Oct. 1

Duluth Apple Palooza 11 a.m. Beaver River Farm, Duluth, facebook.com/dixonsapplesorchard

Sept. 30-Oct.

29

Pumpkinfest 11 a.m. Gammondale Farm, Slate River Valley, gammondalefarm.com

Oct. 1, Sunday

CIBC Run for the Cure 8:30 a.m. Fort William Stadium, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/runforthecurethunderbay

The Minnesota Ballet: Sleepy Hollow 2 p.m. The Depot: Studio Four, Duluth, minnesotaballet.org

Weekend Wine Down with Live Music

3:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Fireside Acoustic Concert: David Huckfelt 6 p.m. Ladyslipper Lodge: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, facebook.com/ktwh.org

Oct. 1-31

Artist of the Month: Kegan Moffitt (Reception Oct. 6 at 7 p.m.) Tettegouche State Park: Visitor Center, Silver Bay, mndnr.gov/tettegouche

Monthly Exhibit: Matthew Klooster Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors, mnhs.org/splitrock

Oct. 2, Monday

Bonnie Raitt: Just Like That 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Oct. 2-9

Hide Week North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Oct. 3, Tuesday

Trivia Night 5 p.m. Loon Lake Lodge, Gunflint Trail, visitloonlake.com

Oct. 3-8

North Star Story Summit: Four Festivals Duluth, northstarstorysummit.org

Oct. 3-Jan. 7

Rachelle Wunderink: Blankouts Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Oct. 5, Thursday

Finland Farmer’s Market 5 p.m. Clair Nelson Community Center, Finland, finlandfarmersmarket.com

Historic Cook County Trivia Night 6 p.m. Up Yonder, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

 Live Music with Tommy Wotruba 6 p.m. Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill, Grand Marais, skyportlodge.com

Annie Humphrey: Album Release & Benefit Concert 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Music Center, Duluth, facebook.com/aichogalleries

Oct. 5-28

Haunted Fort Night: Mother of All Madness (Thurs.-Sat.) Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay, fwhp.ca

Oct. 5-31

Duluth Haunted Ship (Thurs.-Sat.) William A. Irvin, Duluth, duluthhauntedship.com

Oct. 6, Friday

Lumberjack Bash 6 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Witches Walk 6 p.m. Prince Arthur Hotel, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

DSFilmFest Presentation: 40 Below: The Toughest Race in the World 7 p.m. NorShor Theatre, Duluth, dsfilmfest.org

Celebrity Dance Challenge 7 p.m. Marshall School: Fregeau Auditorium, Duluth, minnesotaballet.org

Emporium Presents: Three Dog Night 7:30 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Oct. 6-8

Game On: Sports Cards, Collectors & Memorabilia Show 10 a.m. Miller Hill Mall, Duluth, facebook.com/millerhillmall

Oct. 7, Saturday

UpRiver Running Fall Races Centennial Park, Thunder Bay, upriverrunning.com

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

Jake Forsman Memorial Car Show & Burnout Competition 10 a.m. Ely City Hall, elycarshow.org

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

Author Meet & Greet: Jean E. Pendziwol & Todd Stewart: Skating Wild on an Inland Sea 11 a.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Pumpkin Hunt Family Day 11 a.m.

Seeds of Hope Youth Ranch, Duluth, facebook.com/seedsofhopeyouthranch

Wild State Friend’s Fest & Cellar Sale Noon, Wild State Cider, Duluth, facebook.com/wildstatecider

Layne Kennedy: Influences of Photography and the Process 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org

A Live Superior Reads Event with Lin Salisbury & Carol Dunbar: A Winter’s Rime 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

A 90s Night at the Brewseum 6 p.m. Duluth Children’s Museum, Duluth, facebook.com/duluthchildrensmuseum

DSSO: Epic Tales: MW2 7 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Davina and the Vegabonds 7 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, northshoremusicassociation.com

Oct. 8, Sunday

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

Oct. 9, Monday

Oct. 10, Tuesday

Trivia Night 5 p.m. Loon Lake Lodge, Gunflint Trail, visitloonlake.com

Oct. 10-Nov. 5

Seven Summers: Paintings From Boverdalen by Arna Rennan (Reception Oct. 13 at 7 p.m.) Nordic Center Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org

Oct. 11, Wednesday

Caregiver Collective 1 p.m. Two Harbors, megan@communitypartnersth.org

Oct. 12, Thursday

Music, Arts & Botanicals at the Conservatory 11 a.m. Centennial Botanical Conservatory, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/culturedays

New Resident Social: Hosted by Boundary Waters Connect 4 p.m. Ely Folk School, Ely, elyfolkschool.org

Community Education Lecture Series 5:30 p.m. Log Community Building, Grand Portage, Facebook: Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

Oct. 12-21

Misery 7:30 p.m. Duluth Playhouse

Underground, duluthplayhouse.org

Oct. 12-31

Slate River Slaughter Halloween Display 661 Hwy 130, Slate River, facebook.com/slateriverslaughter

Oct. 13, Friday

Culture Crawl 4 p.m. Cook County History Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

TBSO Opening Night: Music for a Celebration 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Oct. 13-14

Superstition Tours 6:30 p.m. Fairlawn Mansion, Superior, superiorpublicmuseums.org

Oct. 13-March 3

Radical Stitch Exhibition (Reception Oct. 13)

Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Oct. 14, Saturday

Lappe Sawdust Run Lappe Nordic Ski Centre, Thunder Bay, tbnordictrails.com

Indoor Yard Sale 9 a.m. West Arthur Community Centre, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

Boo at the Zoo 10 a.m. Lake Superior Zoo, Duluth, lszooduluth.org

Nice Girls of the North Marketplace 10 a.m. Spirit of the Lake Community School, Duluth, nicegirlsofthenorth.com

Brio Play Event 11 a.m. Toy Sense: 309 Bay Street, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

Free ArtDAI 1 p.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Lutsen Fall Festival: Potluck, Games & Prizes 1 p.m. Lutsen Town Hall

History Group Presentation: Arrowhead Center for the Arts 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org

Storytelling From the Backroads of Cook County 2 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ cookcountyhistoricalsociety

Oh What a Night! Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons 2 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Fur Ball Gala 5 p.m. Northland Country Club, Duluth, facebook.com/animalallies

SGFMS: Sultans of String: Walking Through the Fire 8 p.m. Bora Laskin Auditorium, Thunder Bay, sleepinggiant.ca

Punktoberfest in the Barrel Room 8 p.m. Fitger’s Brewhouse, Duluth, fitgersbrewhouse.com

Oct. 15, Sunday

Clean Energy Community Tour 1 p.m. Grand Marais Public Library, cookcountylocalenergy.org

Book Launch: Making Up the Gods by Marion Agnew 1 p.m. Entershine Bookshop, Thunder Bay, entershinebookshop.ca

Empty Bowls Fundraiser 1:30 p.m. Moose Hall, Thunder Bay, emptybowlsthunderbay.com

Movie Night: Grease 8 p.m. 55+ Centre, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/movienights

Oct. 15-16

Stas Venglevski: Workshop & Concert 2 p.m. Harrington Arts Center, Superior, worldofaccordions.org

Oct. 17, Tuesday

The Go Show Expo 9 a.m. Decc, Duluth, goshowexpo.com

Chum Golden Gala 5:30 p.m. Decc, Duluth, chumduluth.org

Dropkick Murphys Fall 2023 Tour 7 p.m. Amsoil Arena, Duluth, decc.org

Take It With You: A Fairy Tale: Part 3 7:30 p.m. Zeitgeist Teatro, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Oct. 18, Wednesday

Bingo 4 p.m. Two Harbors Community Center, facebook.com/communitypartnersth

Northern Lights Foundation Children’s Charity Gala 5:30 p.m. Decc, Duluth, northernlightsfoundation.org

Oct. 18-19

The Vampire Circus 6:30 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Oct. 18-21

Terror in the Bay Film Festival 7 p.m. Maple Tops Paramount Theatre, Thunder Bay, terrorinthebay.com

Oct. 19, Thursday

Tommy Horricks 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Oct. 19-20

David Hahn Memorial Art Days Grand Marais Art Colony: Studio 21, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Oct. 19-22

Family Weekend North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Oct. 20, Friday

Author Meet & Greet: Molly Beth Griffin & Meleck Davis: The Big Leaf Leap 11 a.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Alfie Zappacosta 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Mania: The ABBA Tribute 8 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Oct. 20-21

Moose Madness Family Festival Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com

Free Training Opportunity: Healing Circle Facilitation 8:30 a.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, northshorehealthcarefoundation.org

Oct. 20-22

Oktoberfest Bonspiel Port Arthur Curling Club, Thunder Bay, pacurling.com

The Minnesota Ballet Presents: Poe 7 p.m. (3 p.m. Sun.) The Depot: Studio Four, Duluth, minnesotaballet.org

Oct. 20-Nov. 12

Cam Zebrun Exhibition (Reception Oct. 20 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Oct. 21, Saturday

Apple Festival Grand Marais visitcookcounty.com

A Series of Unfortunate Specials Zeitgeist Arts: Renegade, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Boo at the Zoo 10 a.m. Lake Superior Zoo, Duluth, lszooduluth.org

Author Meet & Greet: Polly Carlson Voiles & Consie Powell: Star Party 11 a.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Brio Play Event 11 a.m. Toy Sense: 447 May Street N, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.com

Photographer Christian Dalbec Presentation

1 p.m. Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais, sivertson.com

Halloween Spooktacular 2 p.m. Redwood Park Church, Thunder Bay, tbso.ca

Pour on the Shore Fundraiser 4 p.m. Moose Lodge, Two Harbors, lovinlakecounty.com

Moose Crawl: Potluck, Games & Live Music 5:30 p.m. Colvill Town Hall: 2963 Hwy 61, 218-387-2487

Ghoulwill Halloween Ball 6 p.m. Decc, Duluth, truenorthgoodwill.org

Author Talk with Jeremy Norton: Trauma Sponges: Dispatches from the Scarred Heart of Emergency Response 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com

Blues Shakedown 6:30 p.m. DaVinci Centre, Thunder Bay, thunderbaybluessociety.ca

Jesse Anderson Band in the Barrel Room 8 p.m. Fitger’s Brewhouse, Duluth, fitgersbrewhouse.com

Oct. 21-22

Wild Duluth Races Duluth, wildduluthraces.com

Oct. 22, Sunday

Kamview Fresh Air Off-Road Half Marathon 8 a.m. Kamview Nordic Centre, Thunder Bay, tbnordictrails.com

SunFunDays: Norwegian Landscape

Painting 1 p.m. Nordic Center Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org

The Vampire Circus 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Oct. 24, Tuesday

Free Public Lecture: Bev Soloway: The Fur Trader’s Table 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

Oct. 24-26

Scarium at the Aquarium 4 p.m. Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, glaquarium.org

Oct. 25, Wednesday

Photography of Lake Superior with Craig Blacklock 2 p.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

Oct. 26, Thursday

The Garden of the Surreal Gala 5 p.m. St. Louis County Depot: Great Hall, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org

VCC/Chamber Fall Gala 5 p.m. Up Yonder, Grand Marais, visitcookcounty.com/events

Community Candlelight Vigil of Hope 6:15 p.m. Grand Marais Art Colony: Founder’s Hall, violencepreventioncenter.org

Oct. 26-29

The Minnesota Ballet Presents: Poe 7 p.m. (3 p.m. Sun.) The Depot: Studio Four, Duluth, minnesotaballet.org

Oct. 27, Friday

The Great Lakes Outdoor Summit 9 a.m. Zeitgeist Arts Theater, Duluth, duluthaoa.org

Adult Halloween Event 6 p.m. Fairlawn Mansion, Superior, superiorpublicmuseums.org

Oct. 27-29

Anything Goes: Youth Edition Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

Halloween Open Bonspiel Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, cookcountycurlingclub.com

Oct. 28, Saturday

Superior Spooktacular Superior, WI, facebook.com/superiorspooktacular

A Series of Unfortunate Specials Zeitgeist Arts: Renegade, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Boo at the Zoo 10 a.m. Lake Superior Zoo, Duluth, lszooduluth.org

North End Nightmare 5k 11 a.m. Earth Rider Brewery, Superior, grandmasmarathon.com

Special Presentation: Stories & Songs 1 p.m. Nordic Center Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org

TBSO: Time Warp 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Sons of Fogtown Halloween Concert 8 p.m. Fitger’s Brewhouse, Duluth, fitgersbrewhouse.com

The Hunger 16 9 p.m. Downtown Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com

Oct. 29, Sunday

Birch Grove Halloween Carnival 2 p.m. Birch Grove Community School, Tofte, birchgroveschool.com

Simply Spice 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

The Fab Four Performs The Beatles

“Rubber Soul” 7:30 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Oct. 31, Tuesday

Kid’s Halloween Event 11 a.m. Fairlawn Mansion, Superior, superiorpublicmuseums.org

Nov. 1-4

Readers & Writers Fest Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Nov. 2, Thursday

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance: 25th Anniversary Tour 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mondays Music in the Park 1:30 p.m. Downtown Grand Marais, thegmmc.org

Tuesdays

Locals Night with Live Music 5:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Zen Meditation Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. First Congregational Church UCC, Grand Marais, grandmaraisucc.org

Wednesdays

Adult Game Day 1 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, facebook.com/communitypartnersth Duluth Farmers Market 2 p.m. Duluth Farmers Market, duluthfarmersmarket.com

Thunder Bay Country Market 3:30 p.m. CLE

Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca

Colvill Dance Practice & Lessons 7 p.m. Colvill Town Hall: 2963 Hwy 61

Thursdays

Thursday Night Art 4 p.m. Joy & Company, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ joyandcompanymn

Grand Marais Farmers Market (Thru Oct. 12) 4:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais

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

Fridays Meat Raffle 5 p.m. American Legion Post 109, Two Harbors, facebook.com/ twoharborsamericanlegion

Renegade Friday Nights 10:30 p.m. Zeitgeist, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com

Saturdays

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

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

Saturday Open Crafting 10 a.m. Dappled Fern Fibers, Grand Marais, dappledfernfibers.com

Two Harbors Farmers Market (Thru Oct. 14) 10 a.m. Burlington Station, Two Harbors, facebook.com/twoharborsfarmersmarket

“Meet the Artist” Exhibition Series 11 a.m. Two Loons Gallery, Duluth, twoloons.mn Harbor History Tour 1 p.m. Cook County History Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Sundays

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

Music in the Park 1:30 p.m. Downtown Grand Marais, thegmmc.org

The North Shore Dish Hiking Trails and Dining Gems for Autumn

By Virginia George

Fall is a great time of year to get out and explore. The bugs have (mostly) gone, and the fall breeze has blown the last of summer’s stifling humidity away, leaving us with warm days and cool nights… just the way I like it. It is a little melancholy, to be honest, as the cold bite of winter is hot on our heels, but if I’ve learned anything in middle-age, it’s that you’ve got to embrace what you’ve got while you’ve got it.

Fall is hands-down my favorite season for hiking. Fall hiking can be comfortably managed with smart layers, and the payoff can be breathtaking. As the colors start to change, vistas of orange and yellow dappled with green are yours for the taking. And with all that exploring, you can’t forget to do a little fueling.

Some of the best meals I’ve had have been post-hike. Often times this is because I’ve under packed snacks or underestimated the distance or time a hike would take, but sometimes it’s just the cumulation of a beautiful day in the outdoors. This month’s restaurants can be found not too far from a trailhead for some pre- or post-hike sustenance. With the dry summer, the colors will likely change early, so we’re going to start in the north and work our way south to follow the peak of the season.

Rooster’s Bistro, Thunder Bay

I think science has debunked the saying that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” but Rooster’s Bistro might still hold onto that mantra. Before any hiking adventure, it’s important to make sure there’s fuel in the tank, and Rooster’s is the place to go. Rooster’s Bistro is a family run (and family focused) restaurant located in Thunder Bay’s waterfront district that has been operating since 2002. Inside you’ll find unique rooster collectibles and floor to ceiling windows that invite the warmth of the sun. (For a fun twist, these large windows open, creating a hybrid indoor-outdoor space for those transitional days, where outdoor seating is too chilly but we crave the fresh air.)

Rooster’s Bistro specializes in homecooked breakfast and lunch made from the freshest ingredients they can find. Their menu is extensive, and I couldn’t begin to summarize it here, but I’ll hit a couple of highlights. Cream cheese and berry stuffed

Ledge Rock Grille in Larsmont has a picturesque view of Lake Superior and is an ideal spot for a post-hike repose. | ANALISE GEORGE, LEDGE ROCK GRILLE

French toast (gluten free option available). Steak and eggs. Breakfast burrito. If those seem a little heavy for your pre-hike sustenance there’s always a veggie stuffed omelette, or their Cinnamon Bun Griller: a fresh cinnamon bun “grilled to perfection” and served with chocolate or caramel syrup. Rooster’s Bistro also offers a wide variety of salads, wraps, sandwiches, and burgers, so there truly is something for everyone. The menu clearly delineates which items are spicy, vegetarian, and vegan, and they have gluten-free options.

In addition to their in-house offerings, Rooster’s Bistro offers take out and catering for private events. Because they are not open for dinner, Rooster’s Bistro is a great option for hosting private events for up to 70 people. They also offer offsite catering.

HIKING SUGGESTION: The Bistro is located just a stone’s throw from the interconnected trail system surrounding the Current River and Boulevard Lake, or you can take a stroll through Thunder Bay Marina or Prince Arthur’s Landing, where you can catch a glimpse of the Sleeping Giant.

Coho Café & Bakery, Tofte

When it comes to finding fall colors, there isn’t a view much more spectacular than a ride up the gondolas at Lutsen to get a real bird’s eye view, and if you want a restaurant nearby, you might want to check out the Coho Café. The Coho Café is part of the Bluefin Bay Resort, and is located on the scenic Highway 61 in Tofte.

Inside you’ll be greeted with vaulted pine ceilings and multiple display cases filled with muffins, scones, bagels, pie, all situated in front of a wall of freshly baked bread. For breakfast before a hike, you may want to try their Hiker’s Breakfast, consisting of two eggs, meat, toast, and fruit. In addition to breakfast, Coho Café serves a variety of sandwiches, pizza, and dinner entrees. The Call of the Wild pizza with local wild rice sausage and three kinds of mushrooms may be an appropriate meal choice after a day in the wild. A solid baked mac-n-cheese is a good way to reload carbohydrates after an

invigorating hike, or if you want something a little lighter, you might try the walleye tacos. Coho Café also has a full espresso bar and a wine list, so no matter what you’re looking for, Coho Café has you covered.

HIKING SUGGESTION: The Superior Hiking Trail passes nearby, and there are a couple worthwhile loops near the Coho Café that you can knock out in an afternoon. The Oberg Mountain trailhead gives access to

both the Leveaux Mountain and the Oberg Mountain loops. These hiking trails are for moderate to experienced hikers, but promise some beautiful overlooks. Beginner hikers, take the gondola up to the top of Lutsen and meander the trails at the summit.

Ledge Rock Grille, Larsmont

The Ledge Rock Grille has a picturesque view of Lake Superior and is an ideal spot for a post-hike repose. The large dining room windows and crackling fireplace create a cozy atmosphere that is both friendly and intimate.

The menu at Ledge Rock Grille is full of unique flavors and customary staples. Their crispy Brussels sprouts are made with sriracha, maple syrup, agave, and lime. The portabella and fig sandwich contains fig jam, portabella mushroom, caramelized onions, mixed greens, goat cheese, and aioli. Meanwhile, they offer delicious staples like truffle fries, walleye cakes, and a Ledge Rock salad with mixed greens, dried cranberry, smoky walnuts, and vegetables. For a special night, consider reserving the Chef’s Table, where you have a front row seat to watch the chef prepare your six-course meal.

HIKING SUGGESTION: The Knife River Recreational Council maintains about 6 miles of trail in Knife River. The Hawk Hill Loop is a little over 3 miles, but if you want just a quick jaunt to the river, check out the Beach Spur.

As we put the long summer days behind us and embrace fall and all it has to offer, I hope you find a moment to breathe deeply the cool, fresh air, and take advantage of the beauty of fall, whether that’s a vigorous hike to see a landscape that few people ever get to see, or it’s a slow stroll down the road. Whatever that looks like for you, Rooster’s Bistro, Coho Café, and Ledge Rock Grille will be there to fuel your adventures and prepare for the winter ahead.

In addition to breakfast, Coho Café serves a variety of sandwiches, pizza, and dinner entrees, including walleye tacos. | COHO CAFÉ & BAKERY

Step by Step Walking Your Way to a Healthier Life

By Hartley Newell-Acero

Some things that do us the most good are so common, so every day, so down-right ordinary, that their importance fades into the background of our lives. Walking is one of those under-appreciated marvels. The most researched form of exercise, it’s one of the single best ways we can improve our current health and increase both our life-spans and our health-spans.

Physical Benefits

This humble form of activity provides extraordinary physical rewards:

• It strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and reduces risks for heart disease.

• Walking is a weight-bearing exercise, meaning that your body has to work against gravity. This extra effort helps keep bones strong, strengthens lower-body muscles, and improves endurance. It also helps improve and preserve balance and coordination.

• Because walking is gentle and low-impact, it protects joints and can help relieve existing joint pain. It does this by keeping joints lubricated and strengthening the muscles that support them.

• Getting up and moving aids digestion and can help prevent constipation.

• Walking can reduce blood sugar. Muscles burn more energy when they’re working, and that energy comes from the glucose (sugar) that’s being carried in the blood-

stream. Stick to a stroll after meals, and save the intense exercise for when you’re not full.

• All forms of physical activity, including walking, take energy. That energy can come from the calories in the food we’ve just eaten, or it can come from the energy we’ve stored as body fat (adipose tissue). We need body fat to be healthy, but having too much of this type of tissue increases a person’s chances of developing diabetes, stroke, cancer, and other problems. Getting plenty of activity, such as walking, can help keep the amount of adipose tissue within a healthy range.

Mental Benefits

Walking improves blood circulation throughout the body. In the brain, this improvement in circulation helps to:

• Provide an energy boost that can rival a cup of coffee.

• “Clear the cobwebs” and get creative juices flowing.

• Improve cognitive function and memory, and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

• Increase concentration, focus, and productivity.

Emotional Benefits

Walking not only feels good physically, but by boosting endorphins (naturally occurring “feel-good” chemicals) it improves our emotional well-being:

• It provides a chance to reconnect our bodies and minds.

• It can reduce levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness, while boosting mood and self-esteem.

• Going for a walk with friends or family provides an opportunity to connect and deepen interpersonal relationships.

• Walking, especially in nature, provides an opportunity to disengage from technology-driven busyness and re-engage with yourself. It’s an opportunity to think about what matters to you and explore ways you can live into those values.

Ready to incorporate more walking into your life? Here are some tips to help get you started off on the right foot.

• Walk in areas designated for pedestrians. If the light is dim, wear a reflective vest.

• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that provide good traction and layers that you can shed as needed. Walking boosts your metabolic fires, and you’ll warm up quickly.

• Stay hydrated and use sunscreen—even as the weather turns cooler.

• If improved fitness is the goal of your walking, and if you’re just starting down that path, talk with your health care provider first. You’ll need to incrementally increase the difficulty by either walking faster or up an incline. You can gauge the intensity level of your exertion by noticing how it feels to talk out loud. Do you have enough breath to sing? Then you’re working at a low intensity. Can you talk, but not sing? That’s a moderate intensity. Can’t hold a conversation? You’ve hit high intensity!

• Too much time spent being sedentary is a risk for heart disease. Spreading out your walking over the course of a day is an easy way to break up long stretches of sitting.

• However, what’s really important is just moving more, and if once a day is what you can do, that’s fine! Over the course of the week, shoot for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, or some combination of the two. But keep in mind— every step helps. Do what you can, when you can.

Northern Trails

A Guide to Fall Fishing

By Gord Ellis

The days are getting shorter, and the leaves are falling. For the average angler, the appearance of fall is a sign to winterize the boat and put the rods in the garage. Yet for some people, fall is the best time to fish. Not only are the crowds gone (and the sea doos), but some of the best fishing of the year is there to be enjoyed. If you aren’t ready to hang up the fishing rod, here is a guide to some of the species best targeted in the fall.

Walleye

Walleye, the favourite fish of many anglers, is on the prowl in the fall. However, you may have to refine your techniques a bit to find them. In many lakes, walleye will be found a little deeper in the fall than they are in the summer. I find that they are often in water between 20 and 35 feet deep. Walleye also like to set up at the base of drop-offs and near mid-lake humps in the fall. Using sonar electronics will help you locate walleye. Look for fish marks and then make note of the depth. The odds are that fish will be at that same depth throughout the lake. Use larger than average live bait on a half-ounce jig, or fish a live bait rig with a 2-ounce sinker. Another great technique is to vertically jig a half-ounce spoon, such as a Hopkins or Swedish Pimple. Although the water can be cold, walleye are usually aggressive and will smack a jigged spoon.

Salmon

Along the North Shore of Lake Superior, chinook and coho salmon enter many streams and rivers for the fall spawning run. Some of these fish may be in the rivers as late as early November, but the prime time is early to mid-October. Salmon are not feeding when they enter the rivers, but will still take a run at a lure or fly out of aggression or impulse. In large rivers, such as the

Nipigon, Michipicoten or Kaministiquia, most fish are caught trolling plugs like the Livetarget Smelt or Rapala J-13. I’ve also had good luck casting smelt imitating jigs, like the 3/8-ounce Smeltinator and 4-inch Berkley power minnow. In smaller rivers, a float and a bead with split shot is a popular technique for fish in deep pools. Casting light spoons, such as a Little Cleo, Krocodile or EGB, is another great way to fool chinook salmon. Coho will also hit spoons, but have

a real affinity for spinners, like a silver #3 Mepps Aglia.

Steelhead

Lake-run rainbow trout (steelhead) embark on a fall run from Lake Superior in October and early November, often trailing closely behind salmon. These trout feed on salmon eggs deposited by the salmon, so it’s no surprise that salmon eggs—or any egg

Paul Gibson with a nice chinook salmon. | GORD ELLIS

Gord Ellis with a chunky fall walleye caught on a sucker minnow.

| GORD ELLIS

BY JOE SHEAD

WHY GO: Pike Lake, located just a short distance from Duluth, has good numbers of walleyes, some good-sized crappies and bass, and there’s always the possibility of tangling with some better-than-average northern pike.

ACCESS: Pike Lake is just a short drive from Duluth. From the mall area, drive 6.6 miles up Highway 53 to the stoplight at Midway Road. (Fisherman’s Corner is just a couple of buildings from the inter-

imitation—will fool them. Fly anglers often use wet flies like the Egg Sucking Leech or salmon egg fly attractor patterns. Drifting a fly through pools on a floating line or level line, equipped with a weighted dropper and a 3-foot leader, is a great way to catch steelhead. Much like salmon, fall steelhead will crush a spoon or spinner that’s cast in a large pool or river mouth. Fall steelhead are great fighters and will often leap repeatedly when hooked.

Muskie

Fishing for fall muskie is not for the faint of heart. It involves trolling large lures over long stretches of water in very cold weather. The fishing actually improves as the weather gets colder and more challenging. However, if you’re aiming to catch a muskie over 50 inches, there’s no better time to try.

Muskellunge begin to key in on soft-rayed fish like herring and whitefish that spawn in the autumn. Current areas and narrows are key locations to find these big predators. If you want to increase your chances, consider fishing three days before or after the full moon in October. Lakes with good odds for catching a giant muskie include Lake of the Woods, Eagle Lake, Wabigoon, Rainy and Lac Seul. There are many lures that you can troll for fall muskie, but the 10-inch Jake or Super Shad Rap are both proven fish getters. Some keen anglers jig oversized lures such as the Bondy Bait or Bull Dawg. Use a heavy rod, large bait casting reel, and 80-pound braid to tame these large fish—don’t bring a pea shooter to a knife fight.

Stocked Brook Trout, Rainbows, Brown Trout, and Splake

For anglers that like to harvest a few fish, stocked lakes are a great option. All parts of northern Ontario have some stocked lakes and information on them can easily be found on the Ontario Fishonline website (Google it). Almost all stocked trout move shallow in the fall and can often be caught right from shore. If you have a canoe, small

boat, or kayak, you will have a greater ability to move around a lake. I like to cast small spoons at stocked trout, with the half-ounce Little Cleo, Krocodile, or EGB being my top choices. Small crankbait like the Rapala Countdown Elite or Livetarget Dace are two of my favourites.

That’s just a taste of what fishing opportunities await you during autumn in northwestern Ontario. If you are looking for a great way to spend time outdoors this fall, grab your fishing rod and hit the water.

PIKE LAKE

and is popular with boaters. Despite that, Pike Lake still offers pretty good fishing.

GAME SPECIES PRESENT: Walleye, northern pike, black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and bluegill.

2019 survey turned up nine pike over 30 inches, with an average length of 30 inches. Fish hitting the magic 40-inch mark are definitely possible.

section if you need bait). Turn right onto Midway Road and proceed 0.87 miles to the stop sign. Turn left onto Carmen’s Way and you’ll be in the parking lot for the boat launch. The launch has a paved ramp with a dock and parking for a dozen trailers.

VITALS: Pike Lake is a 488-acre lake with a maximum depth of 60 feet. The water is very clear, with an average water clarity of 17 feet, in part due to the presence of zebra mussels. The lakeshore is heavily developed

WALLEYE: Walleyes are present in high numbers and the population is almost entirely sustained through biannual fry stocking. Walleye size has varied over the years. At times, the lake seems to be full of 12-inchers, but the latest DNR survey in 2019 found an average walleye length of over 16 inches. That survey also found more than 15 walleyes per gillnet lift, which is well above average for similar lakes, but pretty typical of Pike Lake. Despite its name, Pike Lake is definitely a walleye lake.

NORTHERN PIKE: Not to be outdone are the lake’s northern pike. Although you won’t find them in high numbers, their size more than makes up for their scarcity. The

BLACK CRAPPIE: DNR numbers don’t reveal many crappies, but they are probably more prevalent than the surveys show. When you catch them, they are typically large. Foot-long specimens are pretty common. They are frequently caught by ice anglers near the big point, which receives heavy ice fishing pressure.

LARGEMOUTH BASS: Pike Lake is probably an underrated largemouth bass lake. Bass do well in the lake’s clear waters, which sustain good weed growth. Plus, there are plenty of docks to hide under. Fish in the upper teens are possible.

YELLOW PERCH: Perch numbers seem to be in decline in recent years. The last two lake surveys in 2014 and 2019 found perch numbers far lower than the 2009 survey. Small perch can be an annoyance while angling for walleyes, but you may catch an occasional keeper.

BLUEGILL: Few anglers target Pike Lake’s bluegills specifically. Bluegill abundance is decent, and although there are keepers to be had, you’ll likely have to sort through a lot of smaller fish to find them.

View all our Fishing Hole Maps at: northernwilds.com/fishingholemaps

A fall muskie and muskie lures. | GORD ELLIS

Stocked lake brook trout are another fall option | GORD ELLIS

NORTHERN SKY

By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH

OCTOBER 2023

In October, Venus is a lovely presence in the predawn sky. Leo, the lion, sweeps by Venus, in the process pairing Regulus, the heart of the lion, with our sister planet.

Regulus forms the base of the Sickle, a group of stars that outlines the lion’s head. For several days centered on the 8th and 9th, Regulus will be close to Venus, the bright beacon low in the southeast. Try spotting the pair on the 10th, when a waning moon joins them.

The bright winter constellations are also up in the southeast to south in the predawn hour. The brightest of stars—Sirius, in Canis Major, the big dog—shines off to the right of Venus.

In the evening sky, Jupiter rises in the east less than an hour after nightfall. Saturn comes out in the southeast, below and slightly east of the big Summer Triangle of bright stars. Grab a star chart and find the Great Square of Pegasus above and between the two planets. Look below the Great Square for the ring of stars called the Circlet of Pisces. You may need binoculars.

On the first evening of October, a waning moon rises above Jupiter. The waxing moon of the next cycle visits Saturn on the 23rd, and on the 28th October’s full moon rises above Jupiter.

On Halloween we observe an astronomically-based Celtic holiday known as Beltane. It was one of four “cross-quarter” days falling midway between an equinox and a solstice. It started at sundown October 31 and marked the beginning of the dark half of the year, when all the evil spirits that had been cooped up since May Day were set loose to inflict misery on humankind. People lit candles in gourds to ward them off and left bribes of food. Those practices survive in our customs of making jack o’ lanterns and handing out candy to trick-or-treaters.

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For more information on the University of Minnesota’s public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth and Twin Cities campuses, visit: d.umn.edu/planet.

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Portable Hunting Bucket Seat or Backpack

By Patrick Baumann

It is easy and inexpensive to make a portable bucket seat and backpack from a 5-gallon bucket. Why spend the money on a commercial version when you can make one for far less?

A portable hunting/fishing bucket seat backpack allows you to carry your hunting or fishing gear to your favorite spot and always have a place to sit.

MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT NEEDED

A clean, tall 5-gallon or 6-gallon plastic bucket, two straps for shoulder—old cloth belts work great—paint for the bucket, and a lid or swivel seat of your choice. Tools will include: tape measure, drill with 1/8-inch bit, Shoe Goo, black Gorilla duct tape, pop rivet gun, 1/8-inch pop rivets 1/2-inch-long, and washers. Include a thin piece of flooring foam for a back cushion if you choose.

DIRECTIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION

Start by inspecting the bucket for cracks or concerns. You want to make sure the bucket is not cracked before you invest your time and resources.

PAINTING THE BUCKET

Paint the bucket your choice of colors. For winter, using flat black or dark green will show against the white snow background. This is a good idea if you want to be seen by people traveling by you. Have some fun with painting the bucket; you do not have to have it one color only.

For fall hunting use, it is suggested that a natural camouflage pattern be used.

PAINTING HINTS

One idea for fishing buckets is to use a strip of 3-inch-wide blue painters’ tape all the way around the top part of the bucket. Use a sharp knife to make sculpting marks that can be waves. Peel off the bottom part of the tape so the “wave” is visible and paint the bottom of the bucket. Paint it light blue, blending into a darker blue towards the bottom.

Let the bucket dry and carefully put the cutout part of the waves back into place so you can paint the top. When you are satisfied with the protective tape, remove the top part of the tape and paint the top of the bucket.

If you know a true artist, ask them to paint your bucket in the patterns of your favorite fish.

Hunting bucket camouflage patterns can be achieved using flat or matte finished paint in light brown, light green, black and dark brown.

Randomly paint the outside of the bucket the colors you have. Next, place a piece of fern, a small branch with leaves or some grass, and mist a coat of the light green or tan over the natural material. The outline of your choice of material will show up in

It’s easy and inexpensive to make a portable bucket seat and backpack from a 5-gallon bucket, so why spend money when you can make one for far less? | SUBMITTED

the mixed colors first painted. This pattern is very effective for camouflage in a boreal forest. Look at your hunting woods for patterns that will mimic natural foliage.

EMBELLISHMENTS

If you wish, you could add a tape measure sticker on the side of the bucket so you can use it for a quick measurement of fish.

CUTTING THE STRAPS

Find a couple of old cloth or webbed belts that are at least 2 inches wide. Measure both to a length of 40 inches and cleanly cut both ends at the 40-inch mark. Place a dab of Shoe Goo on the ends of the belt pieces to help keep them from fraying.

ATTACHING THE STRAPS

Locate which direction the handle normally goes and pick a spot opposite the side the bucket handle is resting on. Locate the center of the line going around the top of the bucket on the side facing you. Measure 5 inches on each side of a center spot and mark the top of the bucket.

Measure 1-inch down from the top of the bucket at each spot. Pick a spot before and just above the large ring that goes all around the top portion of the bucket. Drill a 1/8inch hole through the bucket at this point. Repeat by drilling another 1/8-inch hole on the other side of the center mark. The two holes should be about 10 inches apart.

Pick an end of a belt and bend the end over at the 2-inch mark. Use a piece of tape to make sure they move less and slowly drill through two thicknesses of the belt. Note: for best results, place the folded belt on a scrap of lumber and slowly drill through the belt. Take your time drilling at this point so the belt does not wind up on your drill bit. Place the folded belt end with the short piece towards the bucket. From the outside of the bucket, insert a 1/8-inch by 1/2inch pop rivet and washer through the two

holes in the belt and through the hole in the bucket. Be sure to place a washer on the belt side of the pop rivet for better holding power.

If the belt appears to fit well at this point, place the pop rivet gun over the rivet and pop/pull it tight. Be sure to wear safety glasses during this. Cover the pop rivet end with a strip of tape if you do not get a nice round rivet ball on the inside. You can adjust the length of the straps to fit your body size, allowing for hunting or fishing clothing to be worn.

Repeat for the upper bucket attachment of the other strap. Allow both straps to hang down when completed.

Find the center point of the line around the base of the bucket near the bottom but above the base “lip.” Measure a point about 6 inches each from the centerline you made in the first step. Moving the straps inward slightly if needed will help them stay on your shoulders while traveling.

Fold the last 2 inches of the bottom of the belt over towards the inside. This should make the belt, “strap” about 35-40 inches long. Drill 1/8-inch holes about an inch apart through the side of the base of the bucket about 1-inch up from the bottom of the bucket. Be sure your spot is above the bottom rim of the bucket so your belt attachment can be inside the bucket.

Using pop rivets and washers, attach the bottom straps of the buck-

et. Be sure to adjust the length, as it will fit your size while wearing a winter coat, etc.

Note: tape the strap to the bottom side of the bucket to see how it will fit your size. Adjust the length and placement of the bottom of the straps as needed.

Lastly, glue or pop rivet a thin piece of wood or foam to the front of the bucket, the part that will be at your back. I chose a piece of 10x12 inches, 1/2-inch-thick floor foam.

Pick up your bucket backpack and try it on for size.

FILLING THE BUCKET

Filling the bucket can be great fun. For a fishing bucket, you can purchase a bait cooler that will fit inside the bucket and use it to keep your bait lively.

Items to carry could include a fire-starting kit, first aid kit, food, bottled water or water filter, personal cook kit, flashlight, dry socks, etc. Personalize the bucket backpack with the items you want to bring.

COVER THE BUCKET

If you have the original bucket cover you can add a piece of Styrofoam to the cover for a softer seat. You can also purchase a commercial spin seat for the top of the bucket.

Lastly, use it to go hunting, fishing, or just observe nature. A portable bucket seat backpack allows you to carry your hunting or fishing gear to your favorite spot, and always have a place to sit.

Lakeside Dining

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35 miles from Grand Marais up the scenic Gunflint Trail, 372 Hungry Jack Rd. www.hungryjack.com

Fall Firewise Cleanup Time

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Following My Spirit Home A Collection of Paintings and Stories

By Sam Zimmerman

Minnesota

Historical

Society Press, 2023, $29.95

When Sam Zimmerman decided to rededicate his energy to painting in the late 2010s, he found himself drawn to the stories of his family and Ojibwe community. Following My Spirit Home features more than 80 vibrant and colorful images accompanied by stories, mostly based on tales Zimmerman’s grandfather told him, or from his own experiences along the North Shore of Lake Superior. Similar to his Following the Ancestor’s Steps column in Northern Wilds, many of the stories are written in both English and Ojibwemowin. This book is a beautiful celebration of art and Ojibwe culture.—Breana

Johnson

The Big Leaf Leap

By Molly Beth Griffin

Minnesota Historical Society Press, 2022, $17.95

The girl wants a huge leaf pile to jump in, but after raking up all the leaves in her yard, the pile isn’t big enough. So, she and the neighborhood kids join forces, combining all their leaf piles to create a “big, huge, enormously enormous leaf pile!” After all their hard work, there’s only one thing left to do—leap. Not only is this children’s book filled with fun, colorful illustrations, it also provides some great information about leaves, such as why leaves change color and fall, the job leaves do for trees, the importance of leaf cleanup in a city, as well as why you should leave some leaves where they lie.—Breana

Johnson

The Mysterious North Shore of Lake Superior

A Collection of Short Stories About Ghosts, UFOs, Shipwrecks, and More

By William Mayo & Kathryn Mayo

Adventure Publications, 2022, $9.95

Read 21 chilling short stories about encounters with ghosts, UFOs, bigfoot, and other unexplained phenomena in northeastern Minnesota. A haunting figure that roams a Duluth cemetery, a giant serpent that lurks beneath Lake Superior, a fighter jet that vanished while investigating a UFO—these are just a few of the creepy tales. The stories are based on reportedly true accounts, so they will captivate even the most reluctant readers. If you’re a fan of Elle Andra-Warner’s Strange Tales column in Northern Wilds, then you’ll definitely enjoy this book.

—Breana Johnson

Your Cook County sports broadcasting team— Sterling Anderson & Norman Moe.

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

Boundary Waters Boy

Blackwell

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

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

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

A sequel to the Superior Hiking Trail Story, this newly expanded book provides lots of new content, including new stories about volunteer projects, a photo spread of trail animals, an update on the latest trail improvements, and more. Enjoy the rich history of how the trail grew from nothing in 1986 to over 300 miles today. $39.95

Bob Olson discovered the North Shore and Gunflint Trail in the 1950s. Driving a Ford Model A truck, he roamed the lonely north, meeting the resourceful characters who lived there, eventually making his home on a Gunflint Trail lake. Hop in with Bob and take a ride to adventure! $14.95

The Legendary Great Lakes Shipwreck

Elle Andra-Warner

THE ALEC BOOSTROM STORY

By Jack

Autumn is in the Air

It’s hard to predict when the beautiful fall colors will peak on the North Shore—sometimes it’s in October, and other times it’s September. However, that won’t stop us from celebrating the stunning red, orange, and yellow hues for as long as we can. Winter is right around the corner, so get out and enjoy autumn while you can.

TOP, L TO R: RICHARD CASEMENT, ALEC CASTLE, KEN HARMON. MIDDLE, L TO R: DAWN LAPOINTE, KEN HARMON, BOB BERLUTE. BOTTOM, L TO R: MARCUS DE LOS REYES, AMY PARSONS, TED TIBONI.

Gidaanikeshkaagonaanig Gidaanikoobijiganinaan

Following the Ancestor’s Steps

Otawage-gookooko’oo Great Horned Owl

By Zhaawanoogiizhik / Sam Zimmerman

In  Manoominike-giizis (August/Ricing Moon), I had just passed through Superior heading to Prairie Island when I saw a large bineshiinh (bird) on the side of the road. I passed it, pulled over and then backed up, and grabbed my  aseema (tobacco) and gloves. I realized it was a large gookooko’oo (owl) that had been struck and  bazhine  (killed). I moved it into a growth of blooming  ozhaashijibik (fireweed) (the same pinks in the painting) and collected one  miigwan (feather) from the side of the road after putting down aseema (tobacco).

I messaged my  niijikwe (female friend) to help identify it—it was an adult  Otawage-gookooko’oo (Great Horned Owl).  Gookooko’oog (owls) bimiwidoon (carry along) their own powerful  mashkikiiwi  (medicine). They are such powerful oshkaabewis (messengers) between realms. I wanted to honor this miikawaadendaagozi (beautiful), powerful  manidoo (spirit) and my  nimishoomis (grandfather) who shared his love of gookooko’oog (owls) with me. This is my first painting of my 45th year around the sun.

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.

Jewelry old and new:

Native American turquoise, amber, agate, coral, pearl, estate jewelry and cameos, vintage Mexican silver, jade, rhinestone and more!

Hours: Wednesday thru Saturday 10 to 5. Anytime by appointment.

Downtown Lutsen • www.bigwaterjewelry.com

Strange Tales

2023: The AI Landscape Unveiled

By Elle AndraWarner

The hot news topic these days is the accelerating advancement in “Artificial Intelligence” (AI). While there is praise for the many current benefits of AI in healthcare, research, retail, and more, there is an increasing number of AI experts, scientists, and industry leaders raising alarm about the risks of AI leading to the extinction of humanity.

My first introduction into the world of artificial intelligence was watching the 1968 classic science-fiction movie 2001: Space Odyssey. It’s about a spacecraft heading to Saturn with five crew members (three in suspended animation and two on duty), and the computer with artificial intelligence named HAL controlling the mission. When HAL appeared to strangely malfunction and the two men were going to turn him off, HAL decided to defend himself. He switched off life support for the three astronauts, killed one astronaut on a spacewalk, and when the other astronaut went out to retrieve the body, HAL wouldn’t let him back in the spacecraft. However, the astronaut got in by the emergency airlock and powered down HAL. Of course, we know humans control the computer, not the other way around, right? At least for now…

So, what is artificial intelligence, better known as AI? Simply, it is the ability of systems to analyze information and data in ways similar to human intelligence; it’s a way for computers to mimic human thinking.

The term “Artificial Intelligence” was created in 1956 at the Dartmouth Summer Research Project on AI held in Hanover, New Hampshire. The 6-8-week event launched artificial intelligence as a new field of study, with the name selected by American scientist John McCarthy. Attended by top scientists, the goal was to begin creating machines that could think like humans, including solving complex problems, having language skills, and being creative.

Today, AI is already a part of our lives. Both Siri and Alexa are powered by artificial intelligence, as are AI programs like ChatGPT (free and easy to use) and Midjourney, which can write codes for programs; create websites; generate articles, essays, poetry; paint portraits; and much more. Some other uses of AI include in smartphones, healthcare, finances, online shopping, research, etc.

But is AI a threat to humanity? Can it take over the world?

Well, the alarm is being sounded. A one-sentence open letter to the public in May 2023, signed by hundreds of AI experts, researchers, industry leaders, and others to warn of the risks, read, “Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.” They are asking for policymakers to establish guardrails and baseline regulations before it is too late. And the U.S. and Canadian governments are listening.

Those concerns had been earlier echoed in a 2017 speech by the late famous physicist Stephen Hawking when he said the emergence of artificial intelligence could be the

“worst event in the history of our civilization” unless society finds a way to control its development.

Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, a leading expert in AI, resigned from Google in May 2023 so he could speak freely about the dangers of AI, including “existential risk of what happens when these things get more intelligent than us.”

According to AI expert Yoshua Bengio, a professor at the University of Montreal and the scientific director of the Quebec’s MILA institute, an “AI system capable of human-level intelligence could be a few years away and post potentially catastrophic risks as governments around the world debate how to control a technology that is alarming some of its earliest developers.”

In a written testimony this year to the U.S. Senate subcommittee looking to establish an AI oversight body, Bengio wrote, “There is significant probability that superhuman AI is just a few years away, outpacing our ability to comprehend the various risks and establish sufficient guardrails, particularly against catastrophic scenarios.”

Bengoit notes that in a few years, the ‘loss of control’ scenario could emerge, where an artificial intelligence system can decide it must avoid being shut-off, and if someone intervenes, there may be conflict. Perhaps like HAL in the 2001: Space Odyssey?

Another leader in AI research, Jeff Clune of the University of British Columbia and OpenAI, has said that building truly intelligent AI is the most ambitious scientific quest in human history.

If you like music, go full tilt in enjoying it in 2023. Brian May, musician and co-founder of Queen, is quoted in a recent Guitar Player magazine about AI. “My major concern with it now is the artistic area. I think by this time next year the landscape will be completely different. We won’t know what’s been created by AI and what’s been created by humans.” He added, “We might look back on 2023 as the last year when humans really dominated the music scene.” (Music created with AI assistance is now eligible for Grammys.)

How to prepare for the AI future? In an article in the Toronto Star (Aug. 29, 2023), journalist Kevin Jian had some suggestions, like familiarizing yourself with AI capabilities, experimenting with generative AI like ChatGPT, which is already used by millions, learn to do what AI can’t, watching for new jobs and opportunities created by AI, and adopting an innovative mindset.

Today, AI is already a part of our lives—both Siri and Alexa are powered by AI—but could AI be a threat to humanity? | STOCK

[LEFT] A replica of HAL 9000, featured in the film 2001: A Space Odyssey, on exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, PA. | PHOTOJUNKIE

[RIGHT] Artist Joseph Ayerle’s portrait showing the Italian actress Ornella Muti, created by AI technology in the style of Renaissance painter Raffael. | WIKIMEDIA

LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES

WILDERNESS LAKE ISLAND HOME

Live off-grid with spectacular scenery on a large island on Greenwood Lake. It's a jewel and you get the protection of your own island, offering isolation, wilderness views and wildlife.

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Amazing land situated on Chicago Bay at the mouth of the Flute Reed River. Comfortable home with beautiful views. Guest cabin currently operated as a vacation rental. A 900 square foot garage with insulated space on 2nd level. Main home has 3 bedrooms, full bath on each level and a 3-season porch overlooking the lake and river. House needs wall coverings in the main floor bedroom and 2nd level. Home is built to high quality standards with in-floor heat, top of the line windows, water from the lake with UV, triple filtration and a circulating heat pump providing hot water on demand.

MLS#6103262 $1,950,000 LAKE

Unique private place - a park-like preserve all your own. The 2000 ft of rugged lakeshore and dense boreal forest create a place to immerse oneself in the magic of the ancient shore. The 19 acres is accessible by a 1/4 mile of boardwalk and deck overlooks. Dramatic points protect the private views. Power and phone are waiting for your choice of building sites.

MLS#6107927 $1,750,000

SALE PENDING

MLS#6110397 $950,000

Comfortable small home set up for your retreat lifestyle. Large shop building includes guest quarters. Off grid solar, generator power, new peat-moss septic system, lake water & satellite provide the comforts you desire. Air boat, pontoon & fishing boats included, providing access with a protective cove & docks.

MLS#6104980 $589,900

GREENWOOD LAKE PANORAMIC VIEWS

Greenwood Lake property offers the best of lake life and the north woods experience. Vaulted living area, open kitchen and dining area offer unobstructed lake views from nearly every angle. Cabin has 3 bedrooms with ample closet storage. Clear railing system on the deck allows you to take in the panoramic views. A short walk to the lakefront along part of shared harbor and beach. Off-grid living with amenities of solar power, custom water collection system and propane.

PRIVACY ON LAKE SUPERIOR – NEW STRUCTURES IN PLACE

Deeply wooded lot on Big Bay has great views of the lake and hills along the coast. Privacy on the 500ft of shoreline with its own long driveway from Hwy 61 and a buffer of state land. Charming guest cottage is being completed with flowing, multilevel decks and a unique privy. You have a place to start while you finish renovation of an old cabin that sits right on the shore by variance from the county. The contractor is ready to go.

MLS#6110389 $549,000

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES

MLS#6108310 $549,000

HOME ON CLEARWATER ROAD

Wonderful property just a few miles from the center of the Gunflint Trail, with a gorgeous inland lake view! Houses on Clearwater Road don't come available often! Single level house is suitable for year-round use, with a wood fireplace and 4-season porch. Detached garage is on a dry slab with ample workbench space and storage. Home is well-loved and could be your own north-woods getaway and spring board for endless enjoyment.

MLS#6109927 $449,900

GULL LAKE CABIN

LAKE SUPERIOR HOVLAND HIDE-AWAY

Privacy and sunset views fill this warm 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on Big Bay. Home has been well cared for and provides the comforts and attributes of a classic North Shore Retreat. Stone fireplace and handsome wood mantle, custom kitchen cabinets and granite counter tops, with charming old wooden boat hanging over the great room. Floor to ceiling windows bring the moods of Superior into the living space. Large 4-season porch with wood stove and adjoining cedar sauna.

MLS#6109902 $969,000

DEVIL TRACK LAKE HOME

Three bedroom, 3 bath home on 2 acres of dense forest and 200 ft of shoreline on coveted north shore of the lake. Quality-built 1981 home has many recent updates, including windows and roof. Updated kitchen with new slate tile floors, granite countertops, cabinets and appliances. Open floor plan on main floor with hardwood floors, lofted ceilings, large windows and expansive deck accessed by 2 patio doors. Primary bedroom has lake views and a private bath with walk-in closet. 2-car attached garage and a detached 2-car garage. Dock and lift included. MLS#6108491 $624,900 PRICE REDUCED!

Own a cabin on the Gunflint Trail with direct access to the B.W.C.A.W. Charming cabin sits on 1.7 acres on Gull Lake with many other lakes to explore nearby, including Saganaga & Sea Gull! Cabin features open concept layout with a spacious loft area. The wood burning stove will take the chill out of the air in the cooler months. Spectacular views from 3-season screened porch! With an outcropping of "Boundary Water Boulders" the blueberries thrive on this property!!

MLS#6109763 $439,000 PRICE REDUCED!

POPLAR LAKE CABIN

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES INLAND WATER PROPERTIES NORTHWOODS SANCTUARY HOME

Well loved and cared for cabin on Poplar Lake is a true gem.

Everything you need to get a break from it all. Poplar Lake has 3 different entry points into the BWCAW and is a great fishing lake. Cabin sits on 200+ feet of shoreline and is surrounded by big, beautiful cedar trees. 2 bedrooms and a loft, a gas fireplace to warm you in the colder months.

MLS#6109507

WEST

POPE LAKE CLASSIC CABIN

A classic Northwoods cabin on serene and private West Pope Lake that has been restored to all its glory. Cabin sits on 5+ acres and adjoins Superior National Forest Land to the East. The detail in this charming cabin brings to mind a simpler time and evokes nostalgia. A wood burning stove will warm your heart along with this well insulated cabin. MLS#6109504 $399,000

TOM LAKE RETREAT CABIN

Drop in your boat and turn on the inverter to power up your updated and turn-key cabins!

Property has been meticulously maintained.

Solar powers all the comforts of home. Behind the main cabin, is a 2-bedroom bunkhouse with half-bath and game room. Internet and electric are coming to Brumbaugh Rd in 2025! Maintenance-free steel roofing on all 5 buildings, including sauna, tool shed & heated outhouse! Nearly 4 acres and over 300 feet of shoreline on Tom Lake.

MLS#6108657 $399,000

GULL LAKE ICONIC CANOE COUNTRY LOT

Breathtaking views of Gull Lake from this 4 acre lot will mesmerize and then inspire you to take out your kayak or canoe to cut a crisp line through the water. Blueberries and wildflowers are abundant throughout the mossy boulders and along the rugged shoreline. Property abuts over 500 acres of Federal land to the south, which provides unending wild space to explore beyond your own private slice of iconic canoe country.

MLS#6109510

660 feet of shoreline with a mixture of deciduous and evergreen forest. Southern half slopes gently up from the road and is a mature deciduous forest. From the lakeshore, enjoy summer sunsets to the northwest or peaceful morning sunrises.

MLS#6108188 $225,000

POPLAR LAKE LOT

Over 300 feet of private shoreline on Poplar Lake and just under 2 acres of land. Lots of spruce, cedar, tag alder and diamond willow creates a haven for moose and other wildlife. Bring rubber boots and a camera to check this one out. Beautiful shoreline in a friendly neighborhood!

MLS#6108233 $199,000

TOM

LAKE LOT

There really are places that are still wild, with clear air and starry nights away from the sounds of civilization. If you are willing to drive the extra mile, you will enjoy this untouched lake lot with 214 feet of shoreline on a fairly even heavily wooded lot. Property has been surveyed and staked. Brumbaugh Rd is private with a public landing at north end of the lake.

MLS#6108312 $127,000

GATED PLAT LOT ON TOM LAKE

Beautiful lot in a small private gated plat, nicely wooded with maples, pine and birch. Stubbed in driveway and marked/ flagged build site. Tom Lake is an excellent fishery with walleye, bass, northern and perch. It is ready for you to clear your site and build.

MLS#6109610 $74,000

Stunning home tucked away on 89 gorgeous acres. Includes 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with all the privacy features, maintenance-free siding, a metal roof, vaulted ceilings with pine tongue and groove, a stone fireplace and custom hickory cabinets. A Northwoods sanctuary, with views all around. Solar system leaves you with minimal utility bills. Power & broadband are slated to arrive.

MLS#6109126 $539,000

UPDATED 3 BEDROOM GRAND MARAIS

HOME

Within walking distance to schools, restaurants, and best of all, Lake Superior. Large 3+ bedroom home features a 2-stall detached and well insulated garage. Home sits on a well landscaped and sizeable .51-acre lot with a small creek meandering through the backyard and is currently set up with a long-term rental in the lower level which has it's own private entrance.

MLS#6109587

RANCH HOUSE ON 20 ACRES

Uniquely designed 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom house on 20 acres provides the perfect balance between convenience and rugged. You'll love the traditional characteristics of dark, rough-sawn paneling and timber beams, combined with light toned walls that reflect the southern sunshine. The kitchen, dining and living room all face inward toward the fireplace. Seven acres of wildflower strewn pasture for raising livestock. Includes a barn with a garage stall, room for horse tack and tools, a workshop and a studio upstairs.

MLS#6110203 $329,000

NEWLY REMODELED SILVER BAY 4 BEDROOM

HOME

Four bedroom, 2 bath home has been remodeled from top to bottom with all new mechanicals including washer & dryer, refrigerator & dishwasher. Nice open floor plan with 2 bedrooms upstairs & 2 downstairs. Make this your home and basecamp for all your Northshore adventures.

MLS#6108044 $299,000

COZY OFFGRID CABIN ON 83 ACRES

RENEW/BUILD A BUSINESS IN GRAND MARAIS

1.27 commercial zoned acres on Highway 61 in Grand Marais. Rent space potential. Includes a shop/storefront with some good bones! Great location for many types of ventures! Make an offer and build your business in a popular tourist area!

MLS#6107939 $249,900

Well-loved, kit log cabin perched atop 83 acres, bordered by MN State land. Being this deep in the woods, it is a treat to catch a glimpse of Lake Superior on a clear day from the south facing bedroom window. Interior is accented by beautiful diamond willow railings and custom ironwork. Cozy off-grid cabin with propane lights, refrigerator and cooking range reduce utility expenses.

MLS#6110432 $289,000

RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE

40+ ACRES ON COUNTY RD 14

Over 40 acres with a creek running through and 1300ft of County road frontage. Very nice potential building sites in this parcel. West and south property boundaries are abutted by Federal land. Zoned FAR-3, could be subdivided, or you can maintain the elbow room with your own beautiful, private homestead.

MLS#6108229 $330,000

LAND/BUILDING SITES

MAPLE FOREST LOT

Beautiful 5+ acre wooded lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this lot will be ablaze with stunning colors.

Caribou Lake Public Access nearby, hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail and all the things the North Shore has to offer.

MLS#6108144 $65,000

LAND/BUILDING SITES

REMOTE ACREAGE, ADJOINING FOREST LANDS-PRIVATE LAKE RIGHTS

43 acre tract has adjoining federal land and state park within walking distance. Good road access, with an old "logging road" into the property. Property is part of a private association with lake rights to Lost Lake, limited access lake with shared carry-in landing.

MLS#6103979 $46,900

MAGNEY

PARK AREA RIDGE TOP WITH LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS

Remote and secluded "80" acre property has high ridge views of the big lake. Property adjoins Judge C.R. Magney State Park. Easements in place for road access on old logging trails. Ultimate privacy! Mixed, mature forest of evergreens and maples, creeks and pond. Walking distance to Brule River. Many unique aspects to this beautiful recreational property.

MLS#6107790 $129,000

REMOTE RETREAT

70-acre tract has varied terrain and variety of forest. Property split by Sundling Creek which flows into the Cascade River. Easements and Forestry Permits in place for seasonal access. Remote means ATV/UTV-only drive in and out. It's possible to walk in from the SHT on the south. Adjoins thousands of acres of federal forest lands. Walk-in easement to Cascade River.

MLS#6108890 $68,000

LAND/BUILDING SITES

40 ACRES–STONES THROW TO TOM LAKE

40 acres with an easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing. Year-round road to within 1000 feet, power is possible here. Driveway easement granted to build shared access. Many great building sites. Easy access to trails and other lakes.

MLS#6095114 $60,000

WOODED 64 ACRES –ACCESS TO PRIVATE LAKE

BIG LAKE VIEWS

One acre lot with views of the Big Lake!! This is the location of the old 1 room Colville School House! The driveway has been started!! Take a short walk across Highway 61 to the Lake Superior shoreline owned by the State of MN and enjoy a beautiful & private feeling beach! Property is a non-conforming lot and unbuildable. Could be used as a camping spot.

MLS#6109904

$45,000 PRICE REDUCED!

BRULE VALLEY LOTS

These 3, 40+ acre adjoining parcels are connected to a vast amount of Federal and State land, and are the perfect place to get away. Everyone needs a quiet respite, and this place provides that wholly. Towering Pines, poplar, birch and evergreens, ponds, creeks and rolling hills.

MLS#6102969 $43,000 - Lot B

MLS#6102971 $46,000 - Lot C

RARE

40 – LUTSEN CARIBOU TRAIL

Unique 40-acre parcel surrounded by Federal land in the Superior National Forest. It has a 1/4 mile of frontage on the Caribou Trail north of Lutsen, a year-round, county maintained gravel road (black topped to within about 2 miles). Build your home or retreat here. Power and Broadband are accessible. The woods are deep and the property has a variety of trees and elevations.

MLS#6110287 $174,900

FOOTHILL BOULEVARD LOT

Gorgeous 4 acre lot with a driveway, building pad and power at the road. Bring your plans for a homestead or weekend cabin, or just use it as a great campsite! Property is simply beautiful, and borders public land as well. Foothill Boulevard is strikingly beautiful particularly in the fall with the colors.

MLS#6109511

L ARGE, REMOTE ACREAGE –PRIVATE LAKE RIGHTS

This over 80-acre tract has some high ground with views of the hills to the south. Good road access. Some young planted pine trees. It adjoins a Private Conservation Easement area. The property is part of a private association with lake rights to Lost Lake, a limited access lake with shared carry-in landing from which you can launch your canoe or kayak.

MLS#6103975 $74,900

This large wooded retreat property is within walking distance to a shared landing on Lost Lake - a private access lake. Good road access and many nice places to build a cabin. Privacy on top of restricted private road access makes this a unique opportunity for wilderness seclusion.

MLS#6103974 $59,900

PEACEFUL TAIT LAKE PINES

You'll appreciate the private & peaceful location in Lutsen, MN. Complete with its own hiking trails, outstanding views, maintained roads, yearround accessibility, access to power, calm and serene overall vibe. Deeded lake access to Tait Lake! Additional lots available.

MLS#6106368

$55,000 1.93 acres

MLS#6098276

$54,900 2.53 acres

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 $49,900

MLS#6102970 $44,000 - Lot D PENDING

MLS#6108066 $129,000 - Includes all 3 lots

REMOTE PEACE & QUIET, PRIVATE LAKE ACCESS

Hide away in this dense forest, with miles of remote trails to explore, and private lake access to Lost Lake. Twenty acres of rolling topography and nice building sites for your cabin retreat. The area is part of an association with gated access to Lost Lake, a limited private property lake with no public access, and great trout fishing and wildlife viewing!

MLS#6098653 $39,900

REMOTE, ENDOF-THE-ROAD

PRIVACY

Deeply wooded 20 acre parcel, remote with nice southerly exposure and creek frontage on Mons Creek, a trout stream. Deeded access to Lost Lake, a private access lake with limited private property. A place to fish, listen to loons and watch the sun set. Private area is gated and maintained by association. Main road access is seasonal. Broadband/power slated to come soon.

MLS#6098654 $38,900

SMART. KNOWLEDGEABLE. ENGAGED.

INGER ANDRESS , Agent

Inger is the third generation of Real Estate Enthusiasts in her family. Starting from when she was young, Inger would spend all of her childhood summers with her grandmother in Lutsen. Today, Lutsen is home. Because of her active involvement over the years in the Cook County area, Inger has a historical understanding and a keen sense of the North Shore real estate market.

(218) 216-7141

inger@lustenrealestategroup.com

MOLLY O’NEILL , Agent

Professional experiences in banking, finance, telecommunications, and tourism marketing formed a background well suited to real estate. For many years, Molly has walked through the process of building, buying and selling homes of her own in the Lutsen area. Molly knows her deep roots, extensive understanding and love of exploring the North Shore makes her a rich resource for all the opportunities to connect people with the properties they are dreaming of.

(218) 370-2079

molly@lustenrealestategroup.com

STEPHANIE DRISKELL , Agent

Originally from the Iron Range, Stephanie was always drawn to the North Shore. She and her partner are putting their construction skills to work as they build their dream home in Schroeder. She is happy to share her experience with buyers and sellers as they navigate their own real estate journey.

(21 8) 206-5374

stephanie@lutsenrealestategroup.com

MIKE LARSON , Associate Broker

For three decades, Mike has played a critical role in the development of the tourism, lodging and the real estate industry in the Lutsen and overall Cook County area. Today, Mike’s focus is working with his real estate team and awesome agents, representing buyers and sellers.

(218) 370-1536

mike@staycvr.com

SARENA

CROWLEY , Agent

Sarena, like Steve, is an owner of Cascade Vacation Rentals (CVR) and is an agent for the Lutsen Real Estate Group, a sister company CVR owns. While not active as an agent on a daily basis, Sarena has a big job overseeing the daily operations of Cascade Vacation Rentals, Cascade Maintenance Services (CMS) and North Shore Laundry. All this expertise and knowledge serves a benefit to our real estate agents and the clients we serve.

STEVE SURBAUGH , Associate Broker

Steve serves as the Associate Broker for the Lutsen Real Estate Group and helps navigate real estate operations and his agents with his extensive working knowledge of the area. Steve is the owner of Cascade Vacation Rentals, North Shore Laundry and serves on the Board of Directors of the Grand Marais State Bank, Boreal Access, Cook County Revolving Loan Fund and the Lloyd K Foundation. Steve is also the President of the Cook County EDA and remains active as a senior business advisor to the Northland Foundation’s Entrepreneur Fund.

Hands down, you are in the best care.

RECENTLY SOLD AND LISTED PROPERTIES

AVAILABLE LOT

LAKE SUPERIOR VACANT LOT

Outstanding Lake Superior views from this nearly one acre150’ Lake Superior Lusten-Tofte parcel.

COUNTY ROAD 7

Well-appointed three bedroom home on eight acres near Grand Marais.

NEW LISTINGS OF THE LUTSEN REAL ESTATE GROUP

109 FOOTHILL BLVD // LUTSEN

Nestled into the hills of the maple belt forest overlooking Caribou Lake, this enchanted property has everything needed for your escape to the North Shore. With the perfect balance of simplicity and comfort, this little cottage in the big woods and part syruping homestead is a one a kind opportunity.

Call today for more exciting information.

MLS 6110390 // $279,000

ONAGON LAKE // GUNFLINT TRAIL

Not too often does a private lake vacant lake shore parcel become available for sale. Located just past Seagull Lake on the historic Gunflint Trail, this private parcel on Onagon Lake covets nearly 3 1/2 acres and over 400’ of shoreline. It is a perfect base camp location for BWCAW year-round adventures notwithstanding serving as its own private destination. The vacant parcel is adjacent to an award winning designed home by David Salmela. Parcel is surveyed with soil tests completed with several nice build sites and access to lakeshore.

MLS 6109158 // $189,900

Looking to buy a property for a vacation rental? Through our sister company, Cascade Vacation Rentals, we have gained incredible knowledge about what North Shore visitors are looking for. We are happy to use that information to help guide you in purchasing a property that is not only a good fit for you, but will also increase your chances of high rental income. CASCADEVACATIONRENTALS.COM

PURE, COOL, PRISTINE, SUPERIOR!

This Post and Beam Lindal Cedar Home has all the bells and whistles including 245ft of shoreline on Lake Superior! The living room’s wall of glass displays each big-lake moment and the woodstove adds ambiance. The kitchen is class-act and off the kitchen is a sunroom, a good place for deep thought or a deep snooze! Plenty of room here: three bedrooms, three baths, A loft to sneak away to for a good book or everyone cuddled up for movie-night. The primary bedroom is dreamy under lofted ceiling with an ensuite bath. Down below is a spacious family room with impressive views of the lake. Big ‘ol garage with stairs up to a room that is great for storage. Outside is a sprawling deck, perfect for BBQ’s! The locale is a strategic basecamp for North Shore Fun: Lutsen and Grand Marais aren’t far, Splitrock just down the road. Or, bring enough groceries for a month! Hole up among the cool air, pristine forest, and neighboring 3 quadrillion gallons of freshwater, better known as Superior!

MLS#6108922 PRICE REDUCED $949,000

NINEMILE LAKE HOME

Enjoy this Fabulous vacation or year-round home at Ninemile Lake! This 3 bedroom home doesn’t disappoint with floor to ceiling windows and vaulted ceilings in the Great Room, a spacious Kitchen and even a covered porch this home has everything you need to relax and unwind! Shared access to 1800ft of shoreline on Ninemile lake and close to close to many inland lakes, plus direct access to snowmobile, ATV and hiking trails means you can enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities! Visit today and start planning your summer Up North!

MLS#6107181

PRICE REDUCED $299,900

SALE PENDING SALE PENDING SALE PENDING

SUGAR MAPLE DELIGHT ON THE SHORES OF DEERYARD LAKE!

MLS#6109862

$755,000

SALE PENDING

NEW! DRAMATIC VIEWS OF GRAND MARAIS’S EAST BAY WITH GREAT INCOME! This classy, Scandinavian Modern, 2 bedroom, wellappointed unit is just a stone’s throw from the lake. Enjoy the views while soaking in the sounds of the big lake! The open Kitchen and Living room give you plenty of space to enjoy meals before going out to explore, and the balcony is the perfect place to enjoy the sunrises. The spacious bedrooms give everyone space to relax. There is nothing to worry about with this property; Come use it, enjoy, and let it earn while you’re off doing you.

MLS#6110340 $339,000

NEW! SWEET VIEWS OF GRAND MARAIS VILLAGE, EAST BAY, ARTISTS POINT WITH GREAT INCOME! Leave your stress behind at this East Bay Suite. With 3 bedrooms you have room for the whole family to enjoy their time on the North Shore! The Large Kitchen and Dining Room space give you space to cook large meals for everyone or walk down the street to get a quick meal at one of the close restaurants! With 500ft of shared Lake Superior Shoreline you can easily watch the sunrises or sunsets with an unobstructed view. Wander over to Worlds Best Donuts to get a yummy snack or stop at the Beaver House to get bait to catch the night’s dinner. The options are endless! And while you are away this Suite will pay for itself in Rentals! Check it out today!

MLS#6110341 $403,000

FREI LEIF HAUS MLS#6100212 $699,000

NEW! RUSTIC CABIN LIVING NEAR PIKE LAKE!

Itching for your own Northwoods Base camp all set for your adventures? This is it!

This Garage, sitting on 10 ac near Pike Lake in Grand Marais, has been used as a base camp for the current owners and has worked perfect! Built in 2017, the garage has a steel roof and windows, the interior walls and ceiling are finished and electric and fiber are brought to the garage. The current owners kept the garage door but added net over it to create a nice air flow and to enjoy the sunsets. There are tons of recreational opportunities in the area – upper Cascade State Park – Superior Hiking Trail Spur, groomed cross country ski and snowmobile trails, the Pike lake public boat launch and dock is minutes away. Or create your own trails on the 10 acres and just enjoy the nature around you!

MLS#6110497 $199,900

UNWIND

IN SILVER BAY!

Do you crave space ? Look no further! Including a new furnace and some appliances, this home has been taken care of and has plenty of room for everyone! $ bedrooms gives you the opportunity to have the crafts room you have always wanted, or maybe a nice home office? The options are endless! The Kitchen has a ton of cabinet space, plenty of room for all your cooking tools and the Living Room has a ton of natural light from the large windows. Or walk outside to enjoy the landscaping. From the Peonies adorning the front yard to the large backyard with more landscaping and Rhubarb! There’s enough yard here to throw up a screen porch, a firepit, games area. And don’t forget the large 2 car garage to keep your cars out of the weather and store your outdoor gear! The place is move-in ready. Just show up, unpack, and get to living that new life!

MLS# 6109171 $209,000 PRICE REDUCED

ENJOY SUNRISES AND SUNSHINE IN SCHROEDER

Walk into the small footprint cabin and relax next to the woodstove giving you that extra ambiance or cook a quick meal in the kitchen while planning your next day adventures. The loft area is large enough to have your bed and a quiet reading nook. Walk out enjoy the views of the Boreal Forest and distant Lake Superior! Outside you can enjoy all the spring/summer/fall days under the covered porch, perfect for BBQ’s or just listening to the birds sing. Full basement accessed outside gives you plenty of space to store all your seasonal gear. This home sits on 4.90 acres giving you plenty of space to create your own trails and places to explore. Located close to Sugarloaf Cove, the Superior Hiking Trail and Temperance River State Park! Get a quick meal at the Schroeder Bakery and take it down to the beach by the mouth of the Temperance to enjoy the sounds of the lake. Or just hideaway at your Up North Cabin and enjoy having the stress melt away.

MLS#6109669 $269,000

HOME ON A HILL IN THE SILENT WOODS!

Up the Sawbill Trail in a vast stretch of Superior National Forest is a home on a hill. Built by the current owners it is a home of simplicity on 40 acres! Windows are oriented to take in warm winter sun and sweeping views. A sweet deck overlooks it all, including lady slippers in early summer and a pond at the bottom of the hill, spring fed and pure. It’s made for off-grid living with solar panels and a back-up generator. Inside, the home is about comfort and oneness with its locale: indigenous stones surround the capable wood stoves, beams from a pioneer horse-barn support the roof, cabinets from a caring neighbor provide character. Propane heat is available when the wood stoves cool. Two bedrooms and additional rooms for the office or your vision. The earth sheltered home includes a root cellar to store the food: perhaps blueberry jam from your own berries. A threeseason porch is just the thing when the skeets are hungry or a place to nod off after harvesting the garden. Explore in all directions: flyfish or head out on a mountain bike along miles of forest roads. BWCA entry points are close. Tofte and Lutsen are nearby. Or stay home and enjoy the quietness the woods provide!

MLS#6110010 $379,900

PRICE REDUCED

Cheers to Fall Colors, Here Comes the Snow!

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

TOFTE AREA

LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW LOT IN THE MIDDLE OF TOFTE!

This 3.61 acre lot is a dreamy location to build your North Shore home. With multiple south-facing building sites giving you great views of Lake Superior, electricity conveniently located at the road and Year Round accessible thanks to the Home Owner’s Association you will be able to build your getaway and enjoy it in all the seasons. There is quick access to snowmobile trails, many hiking trails and Cross Country skiing all close by. Visit today and make your dream of a North Shore Home a reality!

MLS#6107193 $149,900

FINLAND AREA

BUILD YOUR VACATION GETAWAY AT NINEMILE LAKE!

.18 acres with 1800ft of shared shoreline on Ninemile Lake! With septic, water and electric all on site all you have to do is hook up to it! Easily start your project and be able to enjoy your time Up North!

MLS#6107242 $60,000

LAKE VIEW LOT!

GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD A LAKE HOME AT THE VILLAGE AT NINEMILE!

Fish the day away from the 1800ft of shared shoreline on Ninemile Lake or travel to one of the many inland lakes that are close by. Snowmobile from your front door! All the important infrastructure is there: Septic, water and electricityall you have to do is hook up to it! Start making your dream Up North home a reality today!

MLS#6107243 $60,000

START ENJOYING YOUR INLAND LAKE DREAM AT THE VILLAGE AT NINEMILE!

This .60 acre lot was recently created by combining two lots so it offers plenty of room to build your dream cabin or home with an amazing lake view and direct lake access! Great opportunity for the outdoor enthusiast with snowmobile and ATV trails right outside your door! 1800ft of shared lake frontage on Ninemile Lake and infrastructure in place for Septic, Well and Electricity, all you have to do is hook up to it. You will be ready to relax and unwind before you know it!

MLS#6107241 $150,000

SILVER BAY AREA

ENJOY THE VIEWS FROM ABOVE! Imagine waking up every morning to a view of Lake Superior. This property could give you that! Located at the top of a hill you could be overlooking Lake Superior while drinking your morning coffee! With a driveway in place (needs a little TLC) and a circle turnaround you have the first steps in place to build the getaway of your dreams! We think the best building site is right off the driveway, but you will have to explore to decide for yourself. Great location just outside of Silver Bay giving you close access to all the Hiking, Biking and ATV Trails. Or maybe you just want to enjoy the abundant wildlife that also wanders around the 9-acre parcel. All that is missing is you!

MLS#6108926 $108,000

LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW LOT IN TOFTE!

LUTSEN, LAND AND LOCATION!

Great location to build your getaway Up North! Located in the heart of Lutsen you will be close to your favorite outdoor activities from skiing to hiking. 3.38 acres with driveway in place, just waiting for you!

MLS#6107596 $62,900!

GRAND MARAIS AREA

GO WITH THE FLOW ALONG THE CASCADE!

It’s not often you find large parcels of land away from it all like this 27 acres! A river runs by it, the Cascade to be precise. Previous owners provided a solid start: brand new garage on one portion of the property complete with a room above. An outhouse rounds out the basic needs. Over by the river, is a simple, solar powered, wee cabin. Everything you need to get started! Diverse mix of trees and lots of upland. This is way-out there country, yet Grand Marais is close enough for easy resupply, a brew, take in some music. Access to Pike Lake is just over yonder. Snowmobile, hiking and cross country ski trails are handy!

MLS#6108873 $164,900

RARE OPPORTUNITY IN THE CITY OF GRAND MARAIS!

MLS#6107607 $99,000

This is a rare parcel with tons of possibilities! The land borders Federal to the North giving you plenty of room to wander the woods or you could just walk down your driveway to get to Ray Berglund Wayside State Park and enjoy the MN Dot Lake Superior shoreline across the Highway. Nice mixture of trees, exposed rock, and beautiful Lake views! This parcel is unique – long and narrow, giving you many options of where and what to build. Great location with Lutsen Mountains Ski Area is just a minute drive away, along with Superior National Golf Course and the paved Gitchi Gami State Bike Trail is across the highway. Build your cabin and enjoy the North Shore –maybe work remotely or move up here!

MLS#6107607 $99,000

LUTSEN AREA

MAPLE FOREST IN LUTSEN! Imagine having your own place on the North Shore to get away to, a place to call home base while you enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities- this is it! Electricity and broadband at the road, Potential for a driveway along the Southwest property line – highest point of the land! Great spot to build your dreamy walk out cabin or home. Potential for Lake Superior view with some tree clearing. Easy maintenance – the Association takes care of the plowing of the road! Lutsen location is great for all the seasonal activities like hiking, biking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing and snowmobiling! Lutsen Mountains and Superior National Golf Course are close by! Bordering Outlot owned by the association to North and West providing a great buffer. All that is missing is you! Visit today and start living the Dream at Jonvick!

MLS#6109822 $97,500

START UP AT TAIT LAKE! Are you ready to have your own place on the North Shore, Build the cabin or home of your dreams and start creating memories? Located in a great location near Tait Lake, away from the hustle and bustle this lot already has the driveway and building site in place. Deeded access to both boat launches you will be able to fish the day away with ease. And Lutsen is just 20 minutes away for Golfing, Skiing, Restaurants and Shopping. Eagle Mountain is only 10 minutes away for a hike to the highest point in Minnesota!

MLS#6108876 $67,000

Large parcels don’t come up for sale very often, especially within the city of Grand Marais, this is your opportunity! There are many possibilities to develop this 2+ acre parcel, The Property was just surveyed and there is a designated 33 ft wide easement on the east side to build a road to this parcel from E 5th ST. The location couldn’t be any better with schools, YMCA, and the Community center within walking distance. Easily get to the Gunflint Trail, just a block away, and spend the day fishing at one of the many close inland lakes. Hiking trails, Biking trails, Cross Country Ski Trails and Snowmobile Trails are just a minute away, you will always have access to the different seasons adventures. Visit today and start planning your getaway Up North!

MLS#6107788 $179,900

384X Highway 61 E

Exceptionally stunning Lake Superior property, perfect for building your ultimate North Shore retreat, with over a thousand feet of shoreline! This 5+ acre lot has officially been subdivided into 2 independent lots and is part of the aptly named Paradise Beach. Imagine owning this beautiful cobblestone beach, that is surrounded by government owned land & provides extensive beach walking opportunities?

MLS 610784 $1,200,000

16 Skratthult Trail

A 3 bedroom, 2 bath home overlooking an absolutely phenomenal 228’ of Lake Superior ledge rock shoreline. This split entry house comes with a cozy fireplace for those chilly nights and an amazing sunroom big enough for entertaining and taking in all the sounds and sights of the big lake. The multi-level deck offers even more space to enjoy the natural beauty of this spectacular property. Over 3 acres keeps it private. Sunrise to sunset and moon reflected on sparkling water, this place is special!

MLS 6110004

$799,900

78 Troll’s Trail

Affordable Lake Superior! Over 300’ of shared lakeshore and over 7 acres of shared land! Great opportunity to build a cabin or year round home. Forested area, firepit picnic area, lawn area--sit back and relax while someone else takes care of the plowing and lawn care.

MLS 6108596 $149,900

COMMERCIAL

12XX Highway 61 W

RARE opportunity to find almost 6A of mixed use located in the heart of Grand Marais, with city sewer and city water. This property has approximately 825’ of frontage on Highway 61 and access off 1st Street.

MLS 6108209 $789,900

1315

E Highway 61

Incredible commercial opportunity at Grand Marais City Limits Current use includes a 3BR rental unit, office, and home! Cathedral ceilings, partially finished second floor, custom designed kitchen, main bedroom with ensuite & patio access.

6104280 $1,250,000

NEW 222 County Road 48

Quality built and lovingly maintained 2BR/2BA home with stunningly beautiful and has a top-of-the-world feel panoramic views of sparkling Lake Superior in the background. Attached 2 stall garage plus a studio building. This amazing property has over 8A, is only a few miles from Grand Marais, offers great privacy, and is centrally located.

MLS 6110412 $749,900

NEW 77 Fall River Road

Exquisite quality-built 2BR/2BA home with attached heated garage on 4.5A and only a couple of miles from Grand Marais. You will love the open concept, high ceilings, custom cabinets, and large numerous windows. There is a covered deck and patio to enjoy the surrounding woods and wildlife. Complete the package with a rustic cabin that would make a great workshop or guest cabin.

MLS TBD $639,900

REDUCED 2390 County RD 7

Charming 3BR/1.5 bath country home tucked away on an incredibly nice 5A lot, with seasonal Lake Views, and it abuts State land to the south.  Full, walk-out lower level, that can be completed to your tastes.  There is a detached 2 car garage that is perfect for the tools and toys.

MLS 6109661 $374,900

500 W 5th Street

Great location for a home or investment property! Duplex potential for rental income. Close to everything Grand Marais has to offer. Well built 2BR/2BA home ready for your special touches!

MLS 6109678 $349,000

REDUCED

2393 W Hwy 61

Home on 6A with seasonal Lake Superior view potential for year round views! This 2BR/1BA gem is tucked away high on the hill just west of Grand Marais.

MLS 6108705 $399,900

NEW 1545 E Highway 61

Only 2 miles from downtown Grand Marais this 2 bedroom, 2 bath home has wonderful sunny spaces. The main level is open concept with vaulted ceiling, deck, and large kitchen island. The lower-level has twin patio doors that open onto a patio. A detached 2-stall garage and a studio/guest house just waiting for you to design.

MLS TBD $389,900

5541 E Hwy 61 E

Charming 3BR home on 34.5A of forested land to explore the Northwoods. Lake Superior access, which is perfect for getting out on the water and enjoy a day of kayaking.

MLS 6107983 $339,900

40 County Rd 44

Looking for quintessential Northwoods home? This 3BR, 2BA, custom built, log-sided home oozes charm & character and sits on over 8 acres. There is an insulated garage with workshop space.

MLS 6107949 $549,900

Enjoy the natural beauty of forested lands on this affordable 1.62A Onagon Lake front lot, located at the end of the historic Gunflint Trail. Over 200’ of lake shore, providing plenty of privacy for your Northwoods getaway.

MLS 6109045 $94,900

Squint Lake Lot 5

Peaceful lot, dead-end private road, with 225’ of Squint Lake shoreline. Close to all the midTrail has to offer. Make your dreams come true.

MLS 6108303 $129,900

Greenwood

Lake

Imagine calling this magnificent piece of premier Greenwood Lakeshore, YOUR private, Northwoods retreat! Very private with over 700’ of lakeshore; 4+ acres; 80’ of creek frontage; AND abuts Federal land.

MLS 6110312 $539,900

REDUCED

Blackwoods Drive

Build your dream home on the shores of the coveted Caribou Lake. Lot directly abuts USFS to the north, features 213’ of shoreline and 3.5A of wooded land.

MLS 6108084 $348,900

NEW 11 Alta Miikana Rd

Moose Valley Rd

Large parcel on the County-maintained Moose Valley Rd!  80A of topographical, natural, and wildlife glory!  This lot has dramatic bluffs, rolling hills, and ponds.

MLS 6108970 $260,000

REDUCED

7

Fantastic 10A Cty Rd 7 location, which is a paved, YR maintained and only 7 miles from Grand Marais. Federal land to the east.

MLS 6109818 $109,900

10 Murphy Drive

Beautiful piece of land with a healthy forest, a Lake Superior view, and 10 minutes from Grand Marais.  Features a screen house, solid driveway with a nice open area that is perfect for weekend use.

MLS 6108990 $127,900

NEW

There are few mid-trail parcels that feature this much privacy! 10A totally surrounded by US Forest Service lands and only about a mile and a half off the Gunflint Trail.

MLS 6110281 $69,900

24 private wooded acres conveniently located approximately 7 miles off Highway 61, close to Schroeder. Easy year-round access and electricity/broadband, making it a fabulous property for a cabin or a home.

MLS 6109429 $64,900

11XX Highway 61 W

Unique opportunity to find a 1A lot in the heart of Grand Marais. Directly abouts Highway 61 with commercial usage.

MLS 6108208 $199,900

Honeymoon Trail

Rural, private, 10A forested land (mixture of coniferous and deciduous trees) and close to Lutsen lakes: Caribou, White Pine, Christine, Pike, and more.

MLS 6108969 $119,000

Residential acreage in the heart of Lutsen ready for your north shore getaway. Close to all of the outdoor recreational activities including alpine & nordic skiing, golfing, hiking, snowmobiling, biking and fishing.

$139,900 MLS TBD

Hwy 61 E

Beautiful 20 acres overlooking Lake Superior! Prime spot for a deer camp as this area is known for excellent hunting.

MLS 6107462 $34,900

NEW 35 & 40 Nordic Star Drive

Incredible opportunity for a residential development in the city limits of Grand Marais! The 3.72A property offers multiple options to build on the west side of Grand Marais.

MLS 6110418 $399,900

Caribou Lake

8XXX

294X County Rd

Onagon Lake

XXX Poplar Lake

INLAND LAKE HOMES & CABINS 11 Poplar Creek Dr

Amazing opportunity to own a private getaway on 309’ of Poplar Lake. The 4BR/5BA house is currently operating as a B&B on 7.2A with BWCA access and is only about 30 miles from Grand Marais. The BWCA, hiking trails, bike trails, and miles of ski trails including the Banadad system all provideendless opportunity for outdoor adventures. The area is rich in wildlife. Make it your ideal north woods escape or dream business or both rolled into one!

MLS 6109270  $749,900

REDUCED 1376 Devil Track Road

Great home on Devil Track Lake with a huge metal pole barn! Two bedrooms on the main level with 1+ bedrooms in the lower level walk-out. 210’ of shoreline with boat launch. Detached garage next to house and giant garage on the top of the hill (46x 60) with a shop, electric, running water (even a bathroom). This is a must see property to appreciate the value!

MLS 6108992

$684,900 pending

181 South Shore Drive

Charming 2BR/2BA Devil Track Lake, YR home, conveniently located off South Shore Drive. This fabulous lot is like a park, complete with beautiful & mature trees; a rare, protected harbor, canopy for your boat; over 100’ of shoreline; a level lot for easy access; and a dock for enjoying stunning sunsets & sunrises.

MLS 6109729 $599,900

REDUCED 261 Caps Trail

Serenity awaits you in this turn-key charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath, year-round cabin on Tait Lake. The property features 190 ft. of shoreline with 2.9 acres and is in a peaceful bay on the north side of the lake, with the Tait River gently running along the western edge of the property. Access to HOA maintained hiking & biking Trails.

MLS 6110362 $549,900

Fisher

I found this fisher along the Echo Trail north of Ely. I was out looking for some fall color and it ran across the road in front of me and into a tree about 50 feet into the woods. It was happy to sit there and look down at me for several minutes as I took several shots—Ken Hupila