Border Waters 2019

IN MAP SID S E

plan your 2019-2020 VISITOR’S GUIDE BAUDETTE • COOK • CRANE LAKE • CUSSON • FORT FRANCES • INTERNATIONAL FALLS • KABETOGAMA • BEMIDJI LAKE OF THE WOODS • LITTLEFORK • ORR • RAINY LAKE • RANIER • TOWER • VERMILION • VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK

Lures belong in the water.

When they land elsewhere, it’s good to know we’re Here.

Emergency Care 24/7

1400 Highway 71 International Falls, MN

(218) 283-4481

www.rainylakemedical.c www.rainylakemedical.com

WELCOME TO BORDERWATERS WRITTEN BY LAUREL BEAGER

Look at the blue sky as white clouds pass overhead. Smell the pine as you hear the crunch of needles on warm rock below your feet. Feel the air on your skin. Your senses come alive with the flavors of BorderWaters.

dock and later taking a dip in the cool, blue waters?

Welcome to a region that truly offers something for everyone. Are you seeking to escape from the stress of the average for just a couple hours or a full day? Or are you looking for a longer stay that will refresh and revive you? It’s all here, in BorderWaters.

And while the outdoors is what we’re known for, we have more. Charming shops, unique entertainment and colorful eateries offer another BorderWaters experience. Lodging and dining in BorderWaters range from the rustic to the elegant. Tent sites, houseboats, cabins, lodges and hotels and motels will bring BorderWaters to your doorstep.

Whether the temperatures are warm, cool or somewhere in between — there’s always something to do in this truly unique area known as the BorderWaters.

Endless possibilities dawn with each sunrise. Will the day bring the vigorous physical challenges that come with kayaking, hiking and casting for muskie? Or is a slower-paced day you crave, that involves watching a bobber from the

Rich, pink and red sunsets bring the end of a day filled with memories and the promise of more BorderWaters experiences.

The BorderWaters experience is broadened by learning about this landscape rich in human history. Museums and visitor centers will help you understand the historic connection the people of this place have had with its lands.

BorderWaters — it’s a place, a feeling, and an experience.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

WELCOME TO BORDERWATERS

12 RANIER

4

ORR AND CUSSON

14

AREA MAP

5

COOK, TOWER AND VERMILION

16

INTERNATIONAL FALLS

6

CRANE LAKE

22 LITTLEFORK

7

KABETOGAMA

23 BEMIDJI

8

VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK

24

10

RAINY LAKE

26

LAKE OF THE WOODS, BAUDETTE FORT FRANCES

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(includes Pelican Lake)

Orr is located on the shores of beautiful Pelican Lake in the heart of what is known as Voyageur Country. Easily reached by State Highway 53, Orr offers a unique combination of modern conveniences within a wilderness environment.

The forests and bogs in the area are home to hundreds of bird species and animals as diverse as gray wolves, black bear, pine martin, otter, beaver, white-tailed deer, and much more. Our dark evening skies and lack of city lights permits hours of stargazing and constellation identification. Our spectacular northern lights are breathtaking as they dance the night away turning many would-be sleepers into night owls.

Centrally located to many points of interest, exploration and adventure, Orr is an easy day-trip traveling distance from: Voyageurs National Park; The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary; Vermilion Gorge & Falls; The Historic Iron Range; Hockey Hall of Fame; International Falls; Fort Frances, Ontario; the scenic Echo Trail to Ely; Soudan Mine; and much more!

Year around activities will have you exploring our beautiful and unique boreal ecosystem whether it’s fishing, hiking, birding, wildlife watching, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing or hunting.

Whether you are considering an extended stay or a short visit, on business or pleasure, let us show you “Minnesota nice” and all our area has to offer.

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THINGS TO DO >> Voyageur Country Visitor Center – Located just south of town on Highway 53 for information on everything there is to see and do in Orr and all around Voyageur Country.

Orr Bog Walk – One of the region’s nicest interpretive trails. Located behind the Orr Visitor’s Center, on Highway 53.

Vermilion Gorge – This 1.3 mile trail can be easily hiked in 3 hours. The last portion of the trail parallels the rugged landscape of sheer granite cliffs and rock outcroppings of the Vermilion River along the gorge.

Vermilion Falls – A ten-minute hike on a wellmaintained trail puts the visitor at Vermilion Falls.

Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary – The American Bear Association invites you to view black bears in their natural habitat in this unique wilderness sanctuary. Open Memorial Day – Labor Day. “Fun Day at Orr Bay” – July 3 A full day of fun in Downtown Orr. Vendors, parades, hot air balloon rides, live music, fireworks.

MORE INFO

Orr

Orr Pelican Lake Association, 4540 Lake Street, Orr, MN 55771 1-800-777-4690, www.orrpelcainlake.com

Cook (includes Tower and Vermilion)

INFO

Lake Vermilion Resort Association • Box 159, Cook, MN 55723

THINGS TO DO >> Bois Forte Heritage Center

Soudan Underground Mine

Fortune Bay Casino

Superior National Forest

1-800-648-5897 • www.lakevermilion.us

North American Bear Center

Cook’s Country Connection Petting farm, education center and event venue

Lake Vermilion Minnesota

Call or visit our website for more information!

800-648-5897 www.visitvermilion.com

Low Prices & Great Selection

Mon-Sat: 8AM - 10PM Sun: 11AM - 4PM

ATM • LOTTERY

Find us on our Facebook page: Last Chance Liquors – Cook, MN 5

Crane Lake

Adventures Start Here! Crane Lake is the southern entrance to Voyageurs National Park and only 10 minutes by boat. Glaciers sculpted masterpiece after masterpiece in the chain of lake of our area. Crane Lake is just the beginning!

If you like to fish, our lakes are filled with walleye, northern, small mouth bass, large mouth bass, black crappie, lake trout, lake sturgeon and panfish. Whether fishing in Minnesota or Canada, be sure to read up on the latest fishing regulations.

Nestled along the Vermilion River is a nine-hole golf course. This

challenging and enjoyable course is a par 36 (2,940 yards) featuring four man-made ponds, a natural stream, three bunkers and a cart trail.

Crane Lake is the Gateway to Superior National Forest, the BWCA, and Quetico Provincial Park. Our houseboats, resorts, and motels cater to an array of individual tastes from all-inclusive resorts to rustic lake homes nestled in remote wilderness settings. This community offers boat and motor rentals, lake-side dining, shopping, fishing guide services, and amazing systems of hiking, biking and ATV trails.

THINGS TO DO >> March The Crane Lake Challenge: Snowmobile races May 25 – Book & Bake Sale Crane Lake Chapel, 9 am - 12pm June - August – Women of the Water: Boating club July 4 – Parade: 7pm w/ Line-Up at 6:30, fireworks at dark.

17 – Chapel Bazaar: 11 am – 2 pm 22-25 – Vacation Bible School: Crane Lake Chapel

Stay at our Exclusive Boat Accessible Lodge and Resort With Modern Housekeeping Cottages, Rooms and a Houseboat ~New Boat, Motor, Pontoon Rentals, Boat Launch, Docking, Parking, C-Store, Gas, Bait, Ice, Tackle, Fishing License’s, Beach and More~

Or Stay at our Drive to Lakehome and Motel on Gold Coast RD

22-27 – Voyageur Days: Various games and events 27 – Fry For All: Outdoor Walleye Fish Fry August 10 – Ladies of the Lake Luncheon: Nelson’s Resort, Noon Labor Day Weekend: Sidewalk Sales & various events September 1 – Crane Lake 5K Walk/Run: Nelson’s Resort, 9am MORE INFO

21 – Booya & Music Festival: Trails End Resort, All Day Crane Lake Visitor & Tourism Bureau 7511 Gold Coast Rd., Crane Lake, MN 55725 1-800-362-7405 • www.visitcranelake.com

pinepointlodge.com 7533 Gold Coast Rd, Crane Lake, MN 55725

Call 800-628-4446

Follow us on Facebook

VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK Crane Lake, Minnesota 1-800-882-6287 HouseboatVacation.com

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Kabetogama

A wilderness paradise born of an ancient glacier flow, edged by the great Canadian Shield, Kabetogama Lake is surrounded by wilderness untamed by time. Here you’ll find creation in its most natural state, teeming with plants and wildlife. The lake itself is dotted with over 200 remote, scenic islands that maintain their beauty through harsh winter storms, and produce rich foliage and wild berries in summer.

Kabetogama Lake has a 500 mile rocky shoreline, 25,000 acres of clean, cool water, and is one of five major lakes forming Voyageurs National Park.

Whether you’re an angler looking for walleyes, someone in need of relaxation, or an outdoor enthusiast, resorts along the Kabetogama shoreline can provide you with boats and motors or safe docking for your own boat. Large boats and motors have easy access to the interconnecting Voyageur Waterway of Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point and Crane lakes (65 miles west to east). Canoes, kayaks and complete outfitting services are available from local outfitters.

A short scenic boat ride across from the Kabetogama Community shoreline will take you to the historic Ellsworth Rock Gardens, a popular and must-see site that is actively being restored by volunteers and historians.

Kabetogama’s reputation as a great fishing and recreation destination became best known as a resort community in the late 40’s and early 50’s. Today Kabetogama still remains one of the few unique mom and pop resort destinations. The lake offers great walleye, northern and small mouth bass fishing.

THINGS TO DO >> May – August : Annual Fishing Contest Community Hall Bingo: Thursday nights in the months of June, July & Aug Church Services: Kabetogama United Methodist Church are at 9:00 a.m. Sundays ALL SUMMER LONG Kettle Falls Cruises from the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center Sunday: 10 am departure Monday: 10 am departure Wednesday: 10 am departure Thursday: 10 am departure Friday: 10 am departure North Canoe programs at the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center Tuesday: 10:30 am Thursday: 10:30 am

MORE INFO

Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center: Daily May through September, 9 am until 5 pm.

844-LAKE-KAB • 218-875-2621 9907 Gamma Rd., Lake Kabetogama, MN 56669 www.kabetogama.com

Lakeshore resorts offering a wide range of year-round accommodations, Excellent fishing, family & group vacation destination, Scenic tours, trips, hiking, wildlife & birding

1-844-525-3522 www.VisitKab.com /KabetogamaLake 7

Voyageurs National Park Voyageurs National Park lies in the rocky Canadian Shield, some of the oldest exposed rock formations in the world.

The pink and gray bedrock has been shaped and carved at least four times by glaciers leaving four large interconnected lakes. The landscape is rugged and varied; rolling hills interspersed with bogs, beaver ponds, swamps, islands, and a variety of lakes. In the years since the glaciers, a thin layer of soil has been created to support the boreal forest ecosystem, the “North Woods” of Voyageurs National Park.

This landscape has a rich human history. The park is named for the Voyageurs – the French-Canadian canoemen who traveled these waters in their birch bark canoes from the Great Lakes to what is now the interior of the western United States and Canada. Modern voyageurs continue to ply these waters. The water, accompanying scenery, geology, and rich cultural and natural resources, gives Voyageurs its national significance, and merit its protection for the enjoyment of future generations.

Over a third water, Voyageurs is an active park that you must see from the water. Access to the Kabetogama Peninsula, islands and nearly all of the park’s shoreline is by watercraft.

The park’s naturalist programs include kids’ activities, canoe trips, boat tours, and the famous North Canoe Voyage. Join a costumed interpreter and learn about the voyageurs as you paddle a 26’ reproduction North Canoe. Free public boat ramps and parking are available at the park’s visitor centers and at the Woodenfrog State Forest Campground near Kabetogama. Watercraft rental and water taxi service are available from private outfitters and resorts at each of the park’s four gateway communities – Ash River, Crane Lake, International Falls (Rainy Lake) and Kabetogama.

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On the northern and eastern edge of Minnesota’s border, 55 miles of the park meanders along the Ontario border of Canada. Voyageurs National Park is located five hours by car from Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN, three hours from Duluth, MN and four hours from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Roads approach the park from four points along U.S. Highway 53 between Duluth and International Falls. Air travelers can take advantage of the International Falls or Hibbing airports where rental cars and hotel shuttles are available. The park is open year-round with no entrance fee. The park charges a fee for overnight camping. For more information, go to www.nps.gov/voya.

Rainy Lake Visitor Center, (218) 286-5258 The visitor center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily from late May through late September. The Rainy Lake Visitor Center is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed Monday & Tuesday) from late September through December, and is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed Monday & Tuesday) from January through late May. Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, (218) 875-2111 The Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from late May - late September.

Ash River Visitor Center, (218) 374-3221 The Ash River Visitor Center is open late May - late September four days a week (Thursday - Sunday) from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call for information.

Visitor center schedules are subject to change.

Please call ahead or check the website – www.nps.gov/voya

THINGS TO DO >>

MORE INFO

Summer Naturalist Programs – All visitor centers – program schedule available on the park’s website.

Tour Boat Cruises – Program schedule available on the park’s website. Call for information or visit www.nps.gov/voya Fishing and Boating – Boating and fishing are the most common recreational uses of the park. Known as some of the best walleye and bass water in the nation, the lakes attracted sport anglers long before the park was established. A Minnesota fishing license is required and Minnesota boating regulations apply.

Canoeing and Kayaking – Even though waters are shared with powerboats, the lakes of Voyageurs National Park are large enough to provide for some solitude. Canoe and kayak trips are available through outfitters, from day-trips to journeys lasting over a week; the Kabetogama Peninsula can be circumnavigated in approximately one week.

Boats on Interior Lakes – Voyageurs provides, for $12.00 per day, canoes and/or rowboats on the following interior lakes of the Kabetogama Peninsula: Locator, Quill, Ek, Cruiser, Brown, Peary, Little Shoepack and Shoepack. Boats are available by reservation only. Reservations to use these boats can be made at www.recreation.gov. The trails leading to these interior lake boats are accessible only by water.

Water taxi service to the trails can be arranged through privately-owned outfitters and resorts.

Hiking, Skiing and Snowshoeing – The park has a variety of hiking trails accessible by boat or car. There is a hiking trail near each visitor center as well as two long distance trail systems. The park grooms two ski trails and three snowshoe trails for your enjoyment.

Camping – There are water-accessible campsites distributed throughout the park designed for either tent camping or houseboats. Designated tent sites have a mooring aid, tent pad or level area, fire ring, privy, picnic table and bear-proof food-storage locker. Houseboat sites include two mooring aids and a fire ring. See website for fees and reservation information.

Snowmobiling – Voyageurs National Park has 110 miles of groomed snowmobile trails over frozen lake surfaces. The 11 mile Chain of Lakes trail travels through the scenic interior of the park; this trail is not groomed.

Lodging Facilities – The historic Kettle Falls Hotel offers lodging within the park. Often called the “Jewel in the Wilderness”, Kettle Falls is accessible by boat and float plane. This historic 1912 hotel is a concession-operated complex that includes a dining room, bar, trading post, rooms and modern housekeeping villas. A mechanical portage allows access between Rainy and Namakan lakes (closed in winter).

Boat Tour Schedule – Schedule available on the park’s website.

Voyageurs National Park Headquarters: 360 Highway 11 East, Int’l Falls, MN 56649-8904 (218) 283-6600 • www.nps.gov/voya 9

Rainy Lake THINGS TO DO >>

INFO

Rainy Lake offers unparalleled scenic beauty and amazing outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors will find many options when choosing their own “Rainy Lake experience.”

Travel by motorboat, sailboat, canoe or kayak. Stay in a resort, houseboat, B & B or camp. Fish, swim, hike, watch birds and wildlife, or just explore. The expansive stretches of water and networks of bays, channels and islands are enticing to adventurers.

Int’l Falls, Ranier & Rainy Lake CVB, 301 2nd Ave., International Falls, MN 56649 800-325-5766 • www.rainylake.org

Voyageurs National Park Rainy Lake Visitor Center (218) 286-5258 or 888-381-2873 • www.nps.gov/voya Jan. – Mid-May, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Wed.-Sun. Mid-May – Mid-Sept., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Oct. 1–Dec. 31, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wed.-Sun. MID-JUNE–LABOR DAY Naturalist-led Activities – The Rainy Lake Visitor Center is 11 miles east of International Falls on Highway 11. The center tells the story of Minnesota’s only national park in displays, exhibits and naturalist-led presentations.

Boat Tours – Call 888-381-2873.

Rainy Lake Bike Trail – Northern Minnesota’s most scenic bike trail begins in International Falls and ends near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center entrance to Voyageurs National Park. For bike rentals call: 1-877-RAINY-LK. Historic Gold Mines – Visit Bushyhead or Little American islands by private boat. For National Park Service tours, call 888-381-2873.

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You can travel the U.S. portion of Rainy Lake from Ranier on the west to Kettle Falls on the east, a nice 30 mile cruise. On the Canadian side, Rainy Lake stretches north from Fort Frances to spectacular Devil’s Cascade.

Anglers will enjoy this fishing paradise. Rainy Lake offers world-class fishing for small mouth bass, northern pike, crappie, muskie and walleye. Fishing guides are available, or you may go on your own, using detailed lake maps and some tips from the bait shops.

Historic Kettle Falls – Deep in the heart of Voyageurs National Park lies an historic remnant of the past — the Kettle Falls Hotel. From the end of the nearest road, it’s a boat ride of 20 miles or more to the historic hotel.

Visitors can stay and eat at the hotel that has offered meals and refreshments to its guests for over 80 years.

To reach Kettle Falls, visitors can take tour boats offering various trips to the area during the summer months, or experienced boaters can reach the hotel in their own or a rented boat.

Beaches – International Falls’ City Beach is located on County Road 20, three miles east of International Falls. You will find picnic tables, grills, swings, basketball courts and a large sandy beach with a lifeguard on duty. A smaller beach without a lifeguard is also located in Ranier.

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Real Estate Agents

Real Estate Agent

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Mobile: 218-290-5931

Office: 218-285-7060

Mobile: 218-285-7060

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435 3rd Street, Int’l Falls, MN (218) 285-7060

Mike Katrin

Broker/Owner

Real Estate Agent

Mobile: 218-390-6637

Intern

Mobile: 218-324-1528

Office Manager

CANADA

USA 11

Ranier is an historic little city on the bay offering a unique blend of history, art, fishing and recreational activities.

Situated on the edge of Rainy Lake and Rainy River, this resort community is only eight nautical miles from Voyageurs National Park. It was here that Native people traded furs, fish, berries and handcrafted goods with the Voyageurs and later, local merchants.

During the Prohibition era, Ranier was home to bootleggers who smuggled whiskey between Canada and the United States across the oldest cantilevered bridge in the world.

Spanning the rushing waters, the bridge, built in 1908, is still a vital link at this port of entry, the largest bulk rail port in the United States. Five import/export houses operate in Ranier.

Once raucous with saloons and bordellos, Ranier now enjoys good times in other ways. Over the years, Ranier has attracted innovative entrepreneurs, artists, writers and musicians, who cherish the quaint and lively city.

Ranier is brimming with manicured parks. It is also home to gift shops, an art gallery, a restaurant, a marine shop, pubs, an ice cream shop, tennis court, public beach, a hiking/biking trail and much more. A variety of rental properties are available to visitors.

An interesting fact you may not know: Ranier is the second largest tonnage-capacity port in the United States.

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MAY – OCTOBER Rendezvous Yacht Club – Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll enjoy sailing on Rainy Lake. Wednesday evenings, weekly Sand Bay Races. Tuesdays in June and July, community sailing from the dock in Ranier.

JULY 1 Canada Day Celebration Concert and Fireworks: Ranier Dock, Sand Bay on Rainy Lake AUGUST 10 Ranier Days: The little burg of Ranier gets very lively for a day with a Parade, live entertainment, food and vendor booths, games, history tours and more. Contact Ranier City Hall for more information. 218 286 3311.

22-24 Int’l Falls Bass Championship: Annual fishing tournament starts with a boat parade, also beginning today, entertainment events in Smokey Bear Park. Information 218-283-9400 MORE INFO

Ranier

THINGS TO DO >>

Ranier City Hall: 218-286-3311 or Rainy Lake CVB • 218-283-9400 www.rainylake.org • cvb@rainylake.org

Internationally Renowned

Since 1948

• On & Off Sale Liquor • Pool Table • Pull Tabs • Darts • Craft Beer • Daily Happy Hours • WiFi

877-RAINY LK

• 4 Suites – 1 & 2 BR • Wireless Internet • Bicycles, Canoe, Pedal Pontoon Boat • Long and Short Term Lodging 2065 Spruce Street Port of Ranier

The LAKEVIEW A Special Summer Residence on Rainy Lake

Lakeside Cabins • RV sites

dockage • beach Full Hookups 30 - 50 Amps Oak Avenue & Poplar Street P.O. box 2 Ranier, Mn 56668 Open May - Oct. (800) 888-5737 (218) 286-5737 © Capture Your Moment Photography

DINING • LODGING & RV • BEACH • ON/OFF SALE LIQUOR • PUB • BOAT RAMP • GUIDES 13

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International Falls

International Falls is relatively young as cities go, yet very old. As a bustling modern community, it dates back over 100 years. Explorers, missionaries and Voyageurs were very familiar with the area as early as the late 1600’s. It is located on the south bank of the Rainy River, near the west end of Rainy Lake. The river forms part of the border between Minnesota and Ontario.

Visitors to International Falls will enjoy majestic scenery, wildlife, water recreation sports and world-class fishing on Rainy Lake and Rainy River. Walleyes, northern pike, smallmouth bass and crappies are popular catches.

The Falls serves as gateway to Minnesota’s only national park – Voyageurs National Park. The Park Service offers an interpretive center, naturalist-guided activities, programs, hiking opportunities, picnic areas and boat cruises.

THINGS TO DO >> May 11 – Walleye Opener in Minnesota June – August Wednesdays from 7 pm – 8:30 pm Featuring local talent gathering at the band shell in Smokey Bear Park.

June 7-9 – Take A Kid Fishing Weekend: This is a special weekend, you can take a kid fishing without a Minnesota fishing license, providing the children are 15 or younger. Although kids under 15 do not need a license in Minnesota, this is an opportunity for adults and kids to try fishing together without buying a license. You can check it our on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.

JULY 1 Our Northern neighbors celebrate with a parade & fireworks!

4 Independence Day Celebration: International Falls/Ranier. International celebrations conclude with the 4th of July fireworks on the US side, there are also parades and entertainment.

31 Crazy Days: Sales Community Wide! Sales, food vendors, entertainment, kids activities and so much more! Some stores opening at 7 a.m.

MORE INFO

AUGUST 9-11 County Fair: Exhibits at the County Fairground in Northome open at 9:00 am, there will be rummage sales, a free appreciation lunch, food booths, and more. The Koochiching County Fair is held in the southwest corner of the county, nearer the concentration of agriculture.

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22-24 Int’l Falls Bass Championship: The area’s largest event of the Summer! Vendors, entertainment, food & more. Cheer on sixty teams as they compete to win over $10,000 in prizes!

SEPTEMBER 2 Labor Day: Celebrate Labor Day in Smokey Bear Park with a picnic!

Koochiching Museums – Historical Museum & Bronko Nagurski Museum. The Museums feature 10,000 years of Borderland history, native history and culture, European settlement and the utilization of the natural resources through the fur trade to modern forestry. The Bronko Nagurski Museum is a lasting tribute to this football legend. Located in Smokey Bear Park 218-283-4316.

Golf Course – The River, next to scenic Rainy River, offers an 18 hole championship golf course. The course winds through the beautiful pines and aspen and is laced with a series of streams. PGA Golf Professional, Pro Shop, restaurant, bar, practice range and more.

Tee times call 218-283-4491.

Beaches – City Beach is three miles east of International Falls on CR 20. Picnic tables, grills, swings, basketball courts, lifeguard on duty.

Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway – Hwy. 11 from Sha Sha Point on Rainy Lake to Karlstad, MN, is a scenic byway with over 47 points of interest.

Sportsmen’s Service Wildlife Museum – Wildlife collection of 100 birds and 50 animals on Hwy. 53.

218-283-2411.

International Falls, Ranier & Rainy Lake CVB • 301 Second Avenue, International Falls, MN 56649 800-325-5766 • e-mail: cvb@rainylake.org • www.rainylake.org

www.borderbobs.com 218-283-4414 Apparel, Gifts, Souvenirs, Art Gallery, Fudge, Old Fashioned Ice Cream & Much More!

Canadian & Minnesota Souvenirs

Homemade Fudge & Ice Cream

Custom T’s & Sweatshirts

COME

FLY WITH US

Falls International Airport (INL) is your international gateway to destinations worldwide!

Wherever your travel plans or destination you have our local commitment to world-class service.

WE OFFER MANY GREAT AMENITIES SUCH AS: • Daily Direct Flights to MSP • Free Parking • Taxi Service • FBO Services (Including Fuel) • Easy Baggage Claim • Free Wi-Fi • Car Rental • Shorter Lines • Charters • U.S. Port of Entry • Einarson Flying Service, Inc. Falls International Airport (INL) is pleased to invite citizens and visitors to the new passenger terminal dedicated in October of 2017. The new terminal with its modern look has a larger secure area with bathrooms and vending machines for your travel convenience. The facility also has a new jet bridge for passenger boarding to the SkyWest jets that serve the airport daily. We can’t wait to share the new terminal experience with you and hope you will choose to fly from the Falls International Airport soon.

Follow our Facebook page for updates and photos. https://www.facebook.com/internationalfallsairport/

Reservations:

218-283-2002

218-283-4461

http://www.internationalfallsairport.com/ 3214 Second Ave. E | International Falls, MN 56649 17

NATIONWIDE!

WE SHIP FISH

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Your connection to the borderland! www.rainYlake.org www.ifallschamber.com 800-325-5766 Advertise in BorderWaters!

Contact Karley Mastin, Advertising Director

218-285-7411

This is the story we all share.

LIKE NOWHERE ELSE Essentia Health is there for you with same-day care and easy scheduling. Because here, we take care of each other.

Schedule a primary care appointment at EssentiaHealth.org or call 218-283-9431.

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The Rainy Experience... where life & learning meet!

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BROWSE THROUGH OUR EXTENSIVE GIFT DEPARTMENT WWW.RAINYRIVER.EDU 218.285.7722 800.456.39961501 Highway 71, International Falls, MN 56649 RRCC is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator.

345 3rd St. Int’l Falls

218-283-6121 Mon. - Fri. 9am - 6pm Sat. 9am - 3pm

City Drug www.citydrugifalls.com 283-3061 314 3rd St., Int’l Falls Mon. – Sat. 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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RECOGNIZE THESE TIRE WEARS?

TOE TIRE WEAR

Excessive wear on the inner or outer edge of the tire, commonly known as toe wear, suggests a wheel alignment issue. This typically produces a feathered wear pattern across both front tires.

W

Waschke FAMILY DRIVEN

CAMBER TIRE WEAR Uneven wear on one side of a tire tread may occur when the tire is leaning due to camber misalignment.

CENTER TIRE WEAR Center wear occurs when a tire is overinflated, resulting in the center of the tire wearing more quickly than the edges.

CUPPING TIRE WEAR Cupping wear occurs when a suspension/balance may be worn, bent, or somehow compromised.

You’ll notice a diagonal scalloping pattern on the tire.

EDGE TIRE WEAR Edge wear occurs when a tire is underinflated, resulting in the edge of the tire wearing more quickly than the center.

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21

Littlefork Surrounded by the banks of the Littlefork River lies the City of Littlefork. Here you will find a small town atmosphere and local hospitality which will make you feel at home.

Outdoor activities abound in the Littlefork area. The Little Fork and Big Fork rivers flow north to the Rainy River through many miles of wild land and provide some of the finest canoeing and fishing in Minnesota.

Hunting is excellent whether you’re after big or small game. Vast areas of public lands provide outdoor enthusiasts unlimited opportunity to snowmobile, cross-country ski, horseback ride or just hike the beautiful old logging trails. Just minutes from Littlefork are Voyageurs National Park, Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake and the Ontario lake country.

Littlefork has plenty of room for housing, starting with some breathtaking riverfront possibilities. You might be surprised just how much land and home you can get for the price, whether you rent or build.

The economic base for our area is agriculture, tourism and the timber industry. There are ample opportunities for new businesses, business relocation or expansion throughout the community. Local assistance is available through county agencies and the City of Littlefork.

June 1 Garage Sale Day: A community-wide garage sale event.

July 11-14 Northern Minnesota District Fair: Featuring live entertainment, a rodeo, demolition derby, carnival rides, great food and so much more!

October 18-19 Spooky Acres: A safe and fun experience for ages 11 and up.

31 Boo Boulevard: A safe and fun experience for all our young hobgoblins.

November 24 Community Craft Fair: This fair is sponsored

by Littlefork Community Education. Come for the food, the crafts and the holiday spirit of this annual event.

MORE INFO

Littlefork offers a municipal airport with property leases available for individual hangar construction and we are twenty minutes from an international airport.

THINGS TO DO >>

22

City of Littlefork 901 Main Street, Littlefork, MN 56653-0131 218-278-6710 • www.cityoflittlefork.com

Bemidji Bemidji has long earned raves as a four-season destination for world-class hunting, fishing, bicycling, boating and snow sports. Few visitors can resist a photo with big Paul Bunyan and blue ox Babe on the shore of Lake Bemidji. But the First City on the Mississippi is also a wonderful place to call home.

Just ask the 46,000 folks who live and work in and around this big small town.

Surrounded by pristine lakes and deep forests, Bemidji is a friendly, family community with rich tradition and the right touch of hipness. It has top-tier higher education, outstanding K-12 schools, a major health care center, convenient air service, fine dining, a vibrant arts scene and the hottest commercial buzz in all of northern Minnesota.

From four-season getaways to special events and meetings, the scope of Bemidji-area tourism continues to widen. It all begins with the magic of the north woods: sparkling waters, deep forests, fall colors and starry skies. These enduring charms continue to draw families and sportsmen for unforgettable vacations.

With major highways in every direction, major bike trails, twice-daily air service and an abundance of quality lodging at hotels and resorts, Bemidji remains a destination that many people return to year after year.

Increasingly, a busy schedule of shows and conventions at the city’s events center, combined with the thriving arts scene, outstanding restaurants and eclectic shopping options, have added a new cosmopolitan dimension to its appeal. There literally is something for everybody in Bemidji, no matter the month.

THINGS TO DO >>

Mississippi Music at the Bemidji Waterfront – Every Wednesday evenings June 12 - August 28 July 3-7 – Jaycee’s Water Carnival 20-21 – Art in the Park July 31- August 3 – Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival August 7-11 – Beltrami County Fair October 1-5 – Bemidji State University Homecoming 11-12 – Bemidji Blue Ox Marathon November 29 – Night We Light Parade

MORE INFO

Welcome to Bemidji, capital of Minnesota’s beautiful north woods. Come see why our unlimited opportunity and outstanding quality of life are no longer a well-kept secret.

300 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji, Minnesota 218 444-3541 • www.bemidji.org info@bemidji.org 23

(Baudette)

Lake of the Woods MN… Three Fisheries In One

By Joe Henry People travel from all over the world to fish Lake of the Woods. What makes this natural resource so special? Let’s start by looking at the diversity of the system.

Lake of the Woods is shared between Minnesota and Canada. The lake is really broken up into three different areas or fisheries, the Rainy River, Big Traverse Bay (the big open water basin) and the Northwest Angle.

The Rainy River. The Rainy River is our international boundary line between the U.S. and Canada. This picturesque river flows 60 miles from Rainy Lake straight west to the town of Baudette, MN and then turns north for another 12 miles until it empties into Lake of the Woods. Much of the fishing takes place in a stretch from the mouth of the river to about 30 miles upstream. That is 30 plus miles of a fertile, multispecies fishery suitable for most fishing boats.

The River is famous for its spring and fall walleye runs. In the spring, walleyes run up the Rainy to Spawn. With a good percentage of the walleyes in Big Traverse Bay being concentrated in the river, fishing can be epic. The walleye season is open until mid April, which lends itself to opportunities for monster walleyes as well as large numbers.

In the fall, the walleyes follow the emerald shiners who run up the river to do some spawning of their own. This traditional run lends itself to some great fishing amongst the beautiful fall colors.

There is a nice resident population of walleyes who call the river home all year long, which the locals know well. Some folks who live in the area have fresh fish all year long and never hit the lake. Not a bad place to call home!

Another fish growing in popularity is the Lake Sturgeon.

Reaching weights of 100 pounds, these monsters are very prevalent in the Rainy. Anglers typically use a bit heavier equipment to land these dinosaurs but many a walleye angler has spent their time playing out these hard fighting fish on walleye gear.

A typical set up for sturgeon is a 2 - 4 ounce sinker with a 3/0 – 5/0 circle hook loaded with night crawlers. The lead between the sinker and hook is typically about 12-18 inches.

Cast out on the up current slope of a hole and get ready.

Almost like carp fishing and very exciting.

The Rainy also boasts strong populations of northern pike 24

THINGS TO DO >> Hiking and Bike Trails – Zippel Bay State Park The Beltrami Island State Forest – Thousands of acres of wilderness to enjoy and is crisscrossed with graveled roads.

Timber Mill Community Park – One-mile east of Baudette on the north side of State Highway 11.

Opens July 4.

Wildlife Watching – The Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway follows the Minnesota/ Canadian border over 200 miles!

Swimming Areas – Zippel Bay State Park offers swimmers a two-mile stretch of sandy beach, with safe shallow waters.

County Museum – Open May – September, the County Museum features history of the area, the native cultures, the great forest fire of 1910, and special exhibits of the area.

Four Seasons of Fun! – The area Drifters Club maintains over 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails throughout northern Minnesota.

Cross Country Skiing – Zippel Bay State Park maintains 10K of groomed trails during the winter.

2019 World Ploughing Championship - The USA, State of Minnesota and Lake of the Woods MN area including the town of Baudette, MN is honored to host this year’s prestigious World Ploughing Contest. The world contest will be held August 30-31, 2019 on the Arnesen family farmland two miles south of Baudette. The USA ploughing contest will follow the day after on September 1 st , 2019.

MORE INFO

Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods Tourism 930 W. Main Hwy. 11 West, Baudette, MN 56623 Fishing Hotline: 1-800-382-FISH (3474) www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com

and smallmouth bass, although most anglers don’t fish for them. They are everywhere! Charter Captains sometimes hook pike accidentally while casting and tuning their crank baits off the back of their docked charter boats in the river.

Some anglers target northern pike in the Rainy River by working the bays and small river mouths with spinner baits.

The results are often various sized northern to over 20 lbs., nice smallies, and occasional nice walleye sitting in the shallower weeds.

Big Traverse Bay. The second section of Lake of the Woods is the main lake basin otherwise known as Big Traverse Bay. This body of water is about 25 miles north/south by 25 miles east/west. This is big water loaded with fish. Millions of walleyes and saugers call this home. This is a four season fishery. Fish are attracted to the miles of “no man’s land” or mud flats. Roaming schools of bait fish and all sorts of critters from crawfish, blood worms and freshwater shrimp hold and sustain large numbers of fish.

In certain sections of the lake, these vast mud flats yield themselves to rock reefs that come out of nowhere. These reefs are often absolute magnets at times of the year for bait and predators alike. This structure located amongst tens of miles of mud can really attract fish.

Lake of the Woods is very clean. Because of the feeder rivers, streams and creeks flowing from the south, the water gets a “stain” or “tint” to it. This stained water actually helps fishing. Rather than having to go after walleyes during low light hours or at night, the bite is very good throughout the day. This makes for exciting days and certainly helps with the sleep.

The open water season goes from April to November.

Charter boats catering to groups up to 6 anglers line the docks at local resorts. Licensed charter captains take groups out targeting walleyes. With years of experience and by networking with other captains on the water, the days are typically very successful reeling in good numbers of fish. From jigging to pulling crawler harnesses to down rigging with crankbaits, the basin not only holds millions of fish, but trophy fish as well.

Many resorts offer a “shore lunch” as part of the charter package. Your captain will pull up to a dock on an island or shoreline and fry up your morning catch along with all of the fixings. For many, the shore lunch of fresh walleyes, sauger and perch is as enjoyable as the fishing. Be sure to check ahead with your resort for shore lunches when booking your charter.

The Northwest Angle. The third section of Lake of the Woods is the Northwest Angle. This is the northernmost point of the Continental United States. In the Angle, you are fishing amongst hundreds of islands, reefs, eagles, bears, deer and some of the most beautiful scenery in North America.

Basically, this is like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area without restrictions. Some resorts are rustic with log cabins in the woods all the way up to modern villas with high speed internet. Regardless of your preference, the fishing is almost as good as the adventure. Again, walleyes are the main fare. Bring your own boat or hire a guide who can take you around the MN side of the Angle or 20 miles up into Ontario to places the visitor would be turned around 10 times over.

No doubt, this is truly an adventure.

Imagine boating amongst hundreds of uninhabited islands through God’s country while headed to that special fishing spot. Maybe you will see another boat today. You will see eagles, deer and maybe even a resident black bear swimming between islands. Enjoy a fresh shore lunch on an island prepared by your guide.

Besides walleyes and saugers, jumbo perch, crappies, north-

ern pike largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and muskies will be prevalent.

Some anglers come to the NW Angle for the untapped musky fishery. Many musky pros call Lake of the Woods the best muskie fishery in North America. With a strong population of fish, a variety of cover and the waters loaded with bait, this is a haven for the top of the food chain. Every island, bay, weed line or underwater rock pile could be holding fish. With little pressure and so many spots, if you have been bitten by the musky bug, LOW is a definite to get on the list.

Lake of the Woods boasts more than 50 resorts and hotels with a variety of options. From hotel and lodge rooms to cabins to beautiful log cabin villas, there is a lot of variety.

Rustic or modern? Pool or swimming beach for the kids?

Cook your own meals or let the resorts make it easy or do both. Certainly, there are many good choices.

Although located in the north woods of Minnesota where there may be as many deer as people, finding a variety of good food is not hard to come by. A fresh fish fry or two should be on the list. There is nothing like fresh walleye, fried potatoes, beans and fresh bread. Some resorts cook up your days catch in the lodge and provide all of the fixings.

Try locally grown wild rice. Maybe some freshly prepared prime rib, a homemade pizza or a half pound burger basket. Top it off with homemade ice cream or some fresh raspberries and blueberries.

A word of advice, when you come up, bring your appetite for fresh walleye, a good camera and a hankering for adventure!

For more information on lodging, fishing and other activities at Lake of the Woods, go to www.lakeofthewoodsMN.com.

LakeoftheWoodsMN.com 800.382.FISH (3474)

@lakeofthewoodsmn

@WalleyeCapital

@WalleyeCapital

@WalleyeCapital

25

Fort Frances

The largest town in the Rainy River District with a population of 8,000, Fort Frances is a modern, full-service community, located on the shores of Rainy Lake and Rainy River along the Canadian-U.S. border, making it the gateway to Northwestern Ontario. The town is linked by bridge to International Falls, Minnesota.

Fort Frances is the oldest settled community west of Lake Superior, incorporated in April 1903. The community has grown and prospered in the past century.

THINGS TO DO >> May 23-25 – Emo Walleye Classic: One of the premier walleye fishing tournaments in northwestern Ontario. Over $25,000 in prizes, 50 teams, and great fishing.

Rainy Lake Market: Every Thursday, 9 am Through September 26, 2019 in Rainy Lake Square.

A view of pioneer and aboriginal life, along with displays of local arts and crafts, is provided at the newly renovated Fort Frances Museum and Cultural Centre.

Emo Racing: Every Saturday, 7:30 pm through August 17 at Emo Fair Grounds.

Enjoy walking along the waterfront area to the rapids where Rainy River flows into Rainy Lake. Stop at the Sorting Gap Marina and visit two historic attractions. The Lookout Tower and the logging boat Hallet. If you want a bird’s eye view of Fort Frances and International Falls climb the 115 steps of the tower and take a look. The Hallet is a 60-foot, 57-ton boat that was built in 1941 and was the largest most powerful boat on Rainy Lake until it was taken out of operation in 1974.

18-20 Canadian Bass Tournament – www.canadianbass.com. For a complete up-to-date listing, please call the Fort Frances Chamber at 800-820-3678.

26

Canada Day: Join in the festivities taking place!

August 15-17 – RRVAS Fall Fair: A whole weekend’s worth of quality family entertainment! This is one of the largest Fairs in the area, with livestock exhibits, Queen and Mini King & Queen Contest, A Fashion Show, Equipment Displays, Horse and Cattle Shows, Dabber Bingo, A Parade, Petting Zoo and lots of entertainment on the small stage featuring an excellent live band.

MORE INFO

Before leaving Fort Frances, spend a few moments enjoying the breathtaking view from Noden Causeway, a series of island-hopping bridges just seven kilometers east of town on Highway 11.

July 1

Ft. Frances Chamber of Commerce: 1-800-820-3678 Ontario Tourism Office: 1-807-274-7566

We are proud members of the InternatIonal falls CommunIty.

VIsItIng the area?

Come shop here Where you WIll be treated lIke famIly.

MEat DEpartMEnt

proDuCE

Fresh meats cut daily and our own “Smokehouse” meats.

EsprEsso LanE CoffEE shop Coffees, Lattes, Cocoas, Teas & More.

Free internet access.

Lunch specials, take out or sit and relax.

Use our In-store ATM

Highway 11-71 West International Falls, MN 283-8440

Large variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

DELi

Meats, Cheeses, Salads.

Lunch & Supper Specials.

Try Our Famous Fried Chicken!

BakEry

From Breads to Donuts we bake it fresh every day.

Your only locally-owned Supermarket for over 50 years.

Visit our website ebsite at superoneifalls.com super

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