Two things that'll surprise you: Not only are there two Grand Maraises along the shores of Lake Superior—one on Minnesota's North Shore, the other on the northeastern arm of Michigan's Upper Peninsula—but they're both home to some damn fine paddling. Minnesota's G.M. (pop. 1,412) sits at the base of the legendary Gunflint Trail, a paved road that heads 58 miles to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, giving locals fast access to 1,500 miles of the nation's best backcountry canoeing. Come winter, you can learn how to build your own nutshell pram or sew a traditional anorak at North House Folk School (northhouse.org). In Michigan, the start of the 120-mile Hiawatha Water Trail, which skirts the edge of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and was a historic water route for the Voyageurs, begins in that state's G.M. (pop. 400). Both have their own paddling festivals, affordable housing, brutally long and cold winters, and, because this is the Midwest, some of the friendliest neighbors and paddling partners you'll ever meet.
Grand Marais, Minnesota Photographer: Layne Kennedy/Corbis
Comments
I just got back from GM, MN. Was there for one week, enjoying the scenery, the cold Lake Supeior water and the mountain biking. Absolutely fabulous place. Need to keep it a secret though. Small town, very neighborly, no big box stores, just local Ma & Pa places. Gateway to the Boundary waters area. Looked for Moose, bear, and wolf. Go see God's handiwork. Very wild. And the trip up MN 61 is beautiful. All the way to Grand Portage and the border. Go see the falls and hike the trails.
Flag ThisWhat? GM MN is actually a terrible place! Mosquitoes the size of pigeons and black flies big as turkeys for months. Boundary Waters walleyes are a myth - no fish in the lakes, just leeches that suck your blood. Hungry bears and wolves will eat your kids. 50-below half the year and then bugs. Bad beer. Pickled herring pizza. Nothing for you here. Stay away! Spread the word - do NOT move here!
Flag ThisAgree with MikeY, but it is much worse in Ely, so go to GM against Casey's comments and stay away from Ely.
Flag ThisAgree with MikeY, but it is much worse in Ely, so go to GM against Casey's comments and stay away from Ely.
Flag ThisI've been here during the winter months as well as the summer. So peaceful and beautiful. Since it is so far out of the way you don't have annoying tourists.
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