Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Itasca State Park Credit: Kvidt Creative BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA WILDERNESS Stretching for 150 miles along the U.S.-Canada border in northeastern Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) boasts over a million pristine acres. This remote region is the ultimate paddler’s paradise with more than 1,100 lakes connected by 1,500 miles of canoe routes. For the full experience, consider a guided trip with professional canoe outfitters who can assist with planning and navigating the necessary portages between lakes. Lakefront resorts are also an option. Anglers can cast their lines for walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and in spring, lake trout. It’s common to see wilderness residents like moose wading through marshes, beavers building dams and bald eagles soaring above treetops. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for dog sledding and snowshoeing adventures. For a deeper look into the area's natural and cultural history, the Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center has exhibits on local wildlife, Indigenous traditions and the legacy of the voyageurs. And don’t forget to look up – as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, the Boundary Waters offers excellent stargazing. park. It’s especially beautiful from late September through early October when the forest canopy shows off vibrant fall colors. Winter invites cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities across the trails. Wheelchair users and cautious walkers can find smooth trails at Headwaters Loop Trail; Dr. Roberts Trail, a 1.7-mile loop for birding and spring wildflowers; and the self-guided trail at the Brower visitor center. Ask about reserving an all-terrain electric-powered chair for some of the more rugged trails. Beyond Itasca: To curate a river-themed road trip, visit the many state parks all along the Mississippi. ITASCA STATE PARK Discover the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Itasca State Park between Park Rapids and Bemidji. This historic and scenic park covers more than 32,000 acres, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including excellent camping. A quintessential experience is to walk across the actual start of the Mississippi River by stepping from one boulder to the next as Lake Itasca flows into the small stream that becomes the Mighty Mississippi. The park features more than 28 miles of hiking trails, bike and e-bike rentals, and calm waters for canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Climb the 100-foot-tall Aiton Heights fire tower for panoramic views of the Scan or visit ExploreMinnesota.com/ parks to discover more Minnesota parks. 32 | EXPLORE MINNESOTA .COM
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2026 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 32
