Leech Lake Indian Reservation, Indigenous reservation in north-central Minnesota, United States.
The Leech Lake Reservation spans lakes, forests, and waterways across north-central Minnesota and includes multiple connected areas. The land features natural water bodies, woodland regions, and diverse ecosystems that support hunting, fishing, and traditional resource use.
The reservation originated from the 1855 Treaty of Washington, which assigned land in this region to tribal groups. Over time, the community lost territory through various land transfers, shaping the relationship between the tribal nation and government.
The Anishinaabe community maintains traditions here through language education, powwow celebrations, and wild rice harvesting that shape daily life and community identity.
The area is accessible through multiple highways with information centers where visitors can learn about local culture. Fishing and hunting are popular activities but require following local guidelines and obtaining proper permits.
In 2020, Congress approved returning roughly 11,760 acres of forest to the reservation, correcting a historical injustice from earlier land transfers. This restoration represents a significant recovery of ancestral territory for the community.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
