Grand Portage State Forest, State forest in Cook County, Minnesota.
Grand Portage State Forest is a state forest covering nearly 100,000 acres of mixed and coniferous forests in northeastern Minnesota along the Canadian border. The woodland area is crossed by numerous lakes and offers multiple access points for water-based activities.
The name comes from a nine-mile Native American trail from the fur trade era that connected Lake Superior with inland trading routes. This historical path was an important link for traders and travelers in the border region.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources organizes educational programs about local ecology and native plant communities within the forest boundaries.
The forest offers nine boat launches at various lakes, including McFarland Lake, which is a popular starting point for paddlers. Most of these entry points are located on accessible roads, which makes planning day trips straightforward.
The forest area is home to High Falls, a more than 100-foot waterfall on the Pigeon River, which is the highest in the state. This waterfall is accessible on foot from the adjoining park and offers a dramatic natural sight.
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