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So, in all of your excitement to get to the lakes of the great northwoods you found that the one thing you forgot to bring was your canoe. Well, luckily for you there is more to do in this area than just paddle and fish. The Superior National Forest and surrounding area boasts a collection of hiking trails that rival the traditional water routes for beauty. The following are just some of the trails that will allow you to make it to the great beauty of the northwoods without stepping foot in a boat Secret/Blackstone The Secret/Blackstone trail follows a winding path of moderate terrain, however it does have several steep hills. Total distance is 3 1/2 miles which includes a loop around Blackstone Lake. The trail leads hikers from high vistas with scenic views to low moist areas. It also winds across small waterfalls. Many types of trees and vegetation provide habitat for various species of wildlife. The trail destination is a rock cliff overlooking Ennis lake. The cliff is often used for rock climbing and repelling. Many opportunities for overlooking or being near water are available. Vermilion Gorge The Vermilion Gorge trailhead is located in the community of Crane Lake, 27 miles northeast of Orr, MN. Trail parking is one-tenth of a mile past the Park Service office on the left. The trail features a 1-1/2 mile gravel trail. Estimated 3 hour hiking time, scenic overlooks and interpretive signs. The last portion of the trail parallels the Vermilion River Gorge- a rugged landscape of sheer granite cliffs and rock outcrops. Interpretive signs will describe the historical development of the area- logging, mineral prospecting, and the colorful fur trade era. For more information, call the LaCroix Ranger District in Cook, 666-5251. Angleworm Lake Trail Thirteen miles north of Ely on the Echo Trail, this lengthy loop trail has several scenic overlooks of Angleworm Lake, but if you want to hike the whole distance, plan on an overnight stay or a full day of hiking. Campsites are available along Angleworm, but check with the Forest Service about availability. Kekekabic Trail This trail will take adverntureous hikers from the western end of the BWCA (Ely) to the eastern reaches (the Gunflint Trail). The Ely end of the trail originates 22 miles E. of Ely on Co. Rd. 18. The Gunflint end of the trail begins forty five miles northwest of Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail. Back country campsites are located on a few of these trails. When using the sites, the Forest service would like to remind you to always follow the, "No trace" camping ethic. Fires must be built on the firegrate, and cutting should only be done on dead and downed trees. Before leaving the campsite, completely extinguish fires and pack out all trash. For a more complete description of the trails listed, contact your local Forest Service office. |