|
One of the best things about the Edge of the Wilderness is that our name truly fits! We are remote enough that you can be out on a lake or go for a walk in the woods and literally see no-one else (except for birds and wildlife). But unlike other wilderness locations, we offer the close-at-hand conveniences of modern, comfortable cabins, northwoods restaurants and shopping, and friendly hosts who thoroughly enjoy helping you with anything you need.
The list of things to do in the Edge of the Wilderness Resort Area is as limitless as your imagination; but here are a few suggestions for your next visit:
Boating & Canoeing
The Edge of the Wilderness Area is home to hundreds (yes, hundreds!) of lakes and several rivers. So it's not surprising that most vacationers and area residents  alike love to spend as much time as possible on the water - be it fishing, boating, waterskiing, tubing, canoeing, and pontoon riding. The brilliance of the Northwoods sunsets, the wilderness islands, unique shorelines, and spectacular waterfowl and wildlife take on a whole new look when viewed from a fishing boat, pontoon, cutty or runabout. Bring your own boat or rent one here - just make sure you get out on the water.
Back in the days of the late 18th Century and up to the middle of the 19th Century, the wilds of what would later become the Edge of the Wilderness Area were  virtually uncharted. There were no roads, few trails and a trip over land was extremely difficult if not impossible. Back then, Indians and fur traders traversed the area's wilderness riverways and lakes in sleek birchbark canoes. These canoes were light, easy to handle in currents and capable of turning quickly and sharply, yet were durable enough to withstand the elements and carry a large cargo. Today you can experience the same beauty and excitement when you canoe the Edge! Paddle your canoe down a pine-fringed river, across a sunset-lit lake or ride the whitewater rapids: our rivers and lakes come in all shapes and sizes and offer great adventure for beginners and experts alike.
Hiking & Biking
One of the most enjoyable ways to get to know the Edge of the Wilderness Area is by hiking or biking our beautiful northwoods trails. Our trails meander along the  edges of beautiful lakes, rivers and streams and then stride into the majestic depths of our pristine forests. The Chippewa National Forest is home to nine different Itasca County Trail Systems; and our state and county forest lands also provide great hiking and biking opportunities with many old logging roads to explore.
Dining
If there's one thing you can always count on in the Northwoods, it's that the fresh air here will increase your appetite. Thankfully, there are dozens of places here  to... ok, we'll say it -- "pig-out!" to your heart's content. Several of the area's lodging establishments have great restaurants on site and there are other restaurants and traditional cafe's located along the byway. Grand Rapids, on the southern end of the byway, has a wide assortment of restaurants and fast food establishments.
Shopping
Shopping while on vacation is one of life's greatest pleasures and the Edge of the Wilderness Area has many fine gift shops, antique shops, small stores and sporting goods outfitters to explore. Whether your looking for handcrafted specialties, fine furnishings, precious collectibles, family fashions or discount store prices, we have what you’re looking for. Ask your lodging host for details and directions.
 Watchable Wildlife
The Edge of the Wilderness Area is home to many different species of wildlife. Animals like the whitetail deer, black bear, racoon, beaver, red fox, porcupine, snowshoe hare, pine marten, mink, squirrel and chipmunk are all plentiful here. If you are lucky you might even see a timberwolf, moose, bobcat, cougar, wolverine or a lynx. Ask your lodging hosts where to best view our northwoods friends.
Birds of a Feather
Bird watching is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in the United States and in Minnesota. More than 420 species of birds have been recorded in Minnesota with 313 considered regular species. This area is part of a narrow forest belt that supports a higher diversity of breeding songbirds than anywhere else in the United States and Canada. Many of the most sought-after birds in North America can be found in the Edge of the Wilderness Area. These include the Great Gray Owl, Bald Eagle, Boreal Owl, Northern Goshawk, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Black-backed Woodpecker, Boreal Chickadee, Gray Jay, Connecticut  Warbler, and the Yellow Rail. In the winter you can also see the Snowy Owl, Northern Hawk Owl, Northern Shrike, Gyrfalcon, Snow Bunting, Crossbills, Redpolls and Winter Finches.
A soaring bald eagle is truly a sight to behold and your odds of seeing one are greatest in the Chippewa National Forest, as this area supports the highest breeding density of bald eagles in the continental United  States. Eagles are often viewed soaring over the larger lakes of the area. Large fertile lakes, towering pine trees, and remote areas provide ideal nesting and feeding habitat. With a wingspan of over six feet, and the pure white head and tail of the adult birds, the eagle is truly a magnificent bird.
Take a look at our area attractions page for some more great ideas - and don't forget to click on the day-trips link too!
|
