Monumental Moments

In the far-northeastern crook of Minnesota, the Pigeon River drops 650 feet in a series of rapids that left Native Americans, explorers, and fur traders no choice but to carry their canoes and supplies overland. And because of this geological kink, the portage became a major gateway to the West and today frames the endless horizons faced by natives as long as 2,000 years ago like a time capsule. At 710-acre Grand Portage, history and culture come to life with replicas of the North West Fur Company's stockade, Native American crafts, and costumed guides who interpret the fur trade and Ojibwa tribal life from the 17th through the 21st centuries.

The signature 8.5-mile portage trail through gently rolling forest is a fairly easy hike. It gains only 630 feet to the Fort Charlotte site, which has the only camping in the monument. Two areas can accommodate a total of 20 campers. Closer to the parking area, the scenic half-mile Mount Rose Trail rewards with sweeping views of the Grand Portage, Grand Portage Bay, and Isle Royale National Park, 22 miles away and another sublimely worthy excursion.

Grand Portage National Monument is surrounded by the Ojibwa Indian Reservation and lies on the northern shore of Lake Superior, just shy of Ontario. While your greatest thrill may be hiking a historic trail, Grand Portage also offers an absorbing walk through history and Native American culture in a scenic setting that's second to none.