Boundary Waters Minnesota, USA Travel Guide
The BWCAW is within the Superior National Forest, which offers vast recreational pursuits. Numerous hiking trails exist outside the BWCAW, from easy walks to challenging treks, often leading to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, or remote lakes.
Explore scenic byways like the Lake Superior Scenic Byway (Highway 61) or the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway. These drives reveal stunning views of lakes, forests, and unique rock formations. Dispersed camping exists outside designated campgrounds.
Choosing how to travel influences your experience outside the wilderness area.
A personal vehicle or rental car is the main and most flexible way to access these nearby destinations. A few local tour operators might also guide driving tours.
Beyond the BWCAW's boundaries, Minnesota's Northwoods offers many other natural escapes.
Near Ely, this park offers camping, hiking, swimming, and cabins, a quieter lake experience with developed amenities.
Near Duluth, known for its dramatic rocky river gorge carved by the St. Louis River, with extensive hiking trails and picturesque bridges.
Tettegouche features high cliffs and waterfalls. Gooseberry Falls State Park is famous for its beautiful cascades and easy access.
This paved scenic byway extends 57 miles north from Grand Marais, leading to eastern BWCAW entry points and numerous private resorts.
From Ely, Highway 1 offers a scenic drive south through dense forests, connecting to other parts of the Superior National Forest.
The region's history extends beyond its natural beauty, with cultural excursions providing understanding.
Near Tower, descend 2,400 feet underground into Minnesota's first iron ore mine. A fascinating glimpse into the state's industrial past.
Located far east on the North Shore, this site reconstructs a fur trade post. Offers living history demonstrations and an 8.5-mile historic trail.
Gateway towns like Ely and Grand Marais offer a glimpse into unique "Northwoods" culture, shaped by logging, mining, and wilderness tourism.
No specific religious pilgrimage sites are prominent in this region. The natural landscape itself often offers a spiritual connection for many.
Explore the unique blend of natural and human history in the Boundary Waters area.
Journey deep into Minnesota's first iron ore mine, an unique historical and industrial experience.
Visit a reconstructed fur trade post and walk a historic trail, reliving early North American commerce.
Experience the distinct culture of gateway towns, shaped by wilderness and resource extraction history.
Consider extending your trip to Minnesota's natural and cultural attractions for a richer visit.
Combine your BWCAW trip with a multi-day exploration of Lake Superior's North Shore for scenic drives and charming towns. Add 2-4 days.
For experienced paddlers, extend your trip into Quetico Provincial Park. This Canadian wilderness offers even more remote solitude. Add 7-14 days.
Very experienced paddlers might string together several BWCAW entry and exit points to create an extended loop within the wilderness.
Drive from Duluth north along Highway 61 to Grand Marais, stopping at state parks and lighthouses.
Allow 2-4 days. This accommodates hiking, coastal town exploration, and Lake Superior enjoyment.
Popular stops include Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Tettegouche State Park.
