When you are ready to take a break from the canoe, there are many hiking trails to explore on the Gunflint Trail. Deep blue lakes, ethereal waterfalls, high cliffs, lush forests of pine, maple and birch, and other natural wonders await. These are just a sampling of the many hikes in and around the Gunflint Trail. Stop in for more information and guidance or give us a call (218) 260-2253 . We can also provide shuttle services to or from your hiking destinations.
Honeymoon Bluff
Two miles down the road from the lodge is a short but steep (90-steps) 0.6 mile round-trip hike to the top of a bluff that overlooks Hungry Jack Lake and West Bearskin Lake. This is a must see and an excellent spot to watch the sunset. This hike is approximately .6 miles roundtrip.
Clearwater Lodge to Daniels Lake via Daniels Lake Spur Trail
This out and back hike begins at Clearwater right across from Cabin 9 off Clearwater Road. The first portion of this hike traverses a lowland stretch along a state trail that links up with the Daniels Lake trail in the BWCA (approximately ¾ mile). This portion of the trail can be wet in Spring so be prepared for that. There are often ample walk-arounds. Once you enter the wilderness the trail grade rises to a comfortable and relatively flat well-worn path along the eastern side of Daniels Lake. This trail eventually joins up with the Border Route Trail where you can head west to Rose lake or east to the northern summits along Clearwater lake. Go in as far as you want and return the same route back to Clearwater. This hike is approximately 3.5 miles round-trip to the north end of Daniels Lake and back.
Bridal Veil Falls
These are arguably the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls on the Gunflint Trail. You’ll start at the Crab Lake Spur Trailhead, off of Loon Lake Road past the lodge. Follow the trail along Crab Lake for about a mile to the T – go left to head north until you meet up with the BRT. After approximately 1 mile keep a lookout for a small wooden bridge over water. Cut down and follow the rapids, find a nice place to cross and trace the rapids to the falls. This hike is approximately 6+ miles roundtrip.
Magnetic Rock
This is a 4 mile hike and includes hiking though some previously burned terrain from the Ham Lake fire featuring new growth. The destination is a 60-foot rock standing on end with strong magnetic attraction, a unique remnant of the glacial period. Bring your compass to test the magnetism. This trail is great for hiking and running, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. This hike is approximately 4 miles roundtrip.
Caribou Rock Trail
The Caribou Rock trail is only 3/4 mile to an overlook of West Bearskin Lake. Continue the full 3.5 miles where it intersects with the Border Route Trail. Go west a bit to visit Rose Lake Falls. You can turn around at this point or continue on heading east along the BRT to find an old cedar grove. Connect with the Daniels Spur Trail and head south until you come out at the lodge. This is a full day hike so be prepared with a lunch. Making the loop to Clearwater is a distance of 10+ miles. This hike is approximately 8+ miles roundtrip to Rose Falls and back or 10+ miles if you continue on to Clearwater Lodge.