The Gunflint Trial, located near Grand Marais, MN, has always been one of my favorite places. The natural beauty and peace found along the Trail is unrivaled in the state and arguably, the nation. There are so many activities to partake in along the trial, and so many opportunities to be in awe of the natural beauty of Northern Minnesota. My favorite activity along the trail is hiking; and I have braved the elements and hiked the trail in each of our four amazing seasons.
One of my favorite memories of the Trail was when my friend and I were hiking and we got distracted trying to get a photograph of a hawk. We started hiking off the trail and then after she got her picture, we got back onto the trail. Or, so we thought. About an hour later we finally realized that we were not on a marked trail at all, but rather had stumbled onto an animal trail that had led us past two remote lakes (one of which had a very active beaver trying to build a house) and into a dense patch of woods. We realized our error and decided we better turn around because it was starting to get dark. We got back onto the actual trail and made our way back to the car. It was one of the best hikes I had ever been on to date. It really is breathtaking to witness nature that has not been altered by humans. I would highly recommend enjoying the beauty the Gunflint Trail has to offer to anyone who is looking to explore Northern Minnesota.