Complete Guide to Hiking & Activities Along the Gunflint Trail
1. Pincushion Mountain Trails
Scenic trail network with panoramic views of Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains. Traillengths vary from short loops to
longer out-and-backs (up to 9 miles). Connects to the Superior Hiking Trail.
2. Wildflower Interpretive Trail
Easy riverside walk along the Devil Track River with interpretive signs highlighting local plants. Great for a quick and educational stroll.
3. George Washington Pines Trail
A peaceful 3-mile loop through towering pine forest. Easy, wide trail
—perfect for all ages and snowshoeing in winter.
4. Moose Viewing Trail
A 1-mile loop with a raised viewing platform overlooking moose habitat.
Best viewed early morning or at dusk during spring and fall.
5. Honeymoon Bluff Trail
Short but steep 1.5-mile loop with one of the best sunset
views along the trail. Overlooks Hungry Jack Lake. Includes stairs and railing.
6. Daniels Lake Spur Trail
A 1-1/2 mile hike from Clearwater Road leads to Dainels Lake shortly after entering
the BWCA and continues along the lake shore for about a mile before connecting
to the Border Route Trail. Easy Hike, Can get Muddy after rain or in the spring.
7. Caribou Rock Trail to Rose Falls & Rose Lake
A rugged 7-mile round-trip trail with steep climbs and sweeping overlooks.
Ends at Rose Falls and the historic Stairway Portage. BWCA permit required.
One of the most rewarding (and challenging) hikes in the area.
8. Clearwater Lake Palisades
~56 miles + canoe access
Short but steep 0.5-mile trail to a cliff-top overlook 300+ ft above
Clearwater Lake. Reachable only by canoe from Clearwater Lodge.
Stunning views, Trail Head can be hard to find.
9. Johnson Falls
Twin waterfalls tucked deep in the woods. Accessed by canoe and portage
via Clearwater or East Bearskin Lake.
A classic full-day adventure with great swimming holes
10. High Cliffs Trail (Gunflint Lake Area)
1.5-mile trail to a rocky overlook of Gunflint Lake and the Canadian border.
Start near Gunflint Lodge or Loon Lake Public Landing.
11. Centennial Trail (Paulson Mine Ruins)
3.3-mile round-trip hike through deep forest to the ruins of the
Paulson iron mine. Historical interpretive signs along the way.
12. Magnetic Rock Trail
An easy 3-mile round-trip hike to a towering, magnetized rock formation.
Flat and fun for kids—great beginner trail.
13. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center Trails
Family-friendly trail network ranging from short ADA-accessible loops
to moderate hikes with views of Saganaga Lake.
Museum explores Gunflint history, wildlife, and Ojibwe culture.
14. Bridal Veil Falls (via Gunflint Lake Trail)
Accessed via the Gunflint Lake Trails, this hidden gem waterfall requires a moderate to
challenging hike. Trail starts near the Gunflint Lodge area. Best visited in spring or after
heavy rain. One of the lesser-known, more secluded waterfalls in the region.
Other Things to Do Along the Gunflint Trail
Canoe Day Trips: Paddle iconic lakes like Clearwater, Seagull, Poplar, or Cross Bay. Rentals and outfitting at Clearwater Lodge,
Gunflint Lodge, and Tuscarora.Moose Spotting: Best seen near ponds and bogs during early morning or evening
hours in spring and fall.Night Sky Viewing: Incredible stargazing and northern lights visibility. Minimal light pollution throughout the
entire trail.Fishing & Wildlife Watching: Lake trout, smallmouth bass, northern pike—plus eagles, loons, beaver, and more.
Historical Exploration: Visit Chik-Wauk Museum, Paulson Mine ruins, and old portage routes used by trappers and voyageurs.