Superior National Forest, Gunflint Trail
I have been to many different campgrounds in Minnesota and ranked many of them in my Top 10. My critiques are always the same: near water, view, and do I feel like I got away from it all.
Trails End is different because it is away from everything; it is at the end of the road, and you cannot go any further. This campground is a trek from wherever you are; it can take almost 9 hours from Fargo. My friend Micah from Minneapolis says he has done it in under 5, but I do not believe him. First, you must get to the North Shore from wherever you are, then speed up to Grand Marais, avoiding the pedestrians viewing the waterfalls and the traffic. Then head west an hour plus into the Boundary Waters Area. I hope to persuade you not to go because I always want a reservation here.
Gobee and I have walked the entire campground and explored every camp spot, so we know where the top spots are. If you get a site on the water, you are set; the views don't stop, and getting your canoe or kayak in the water is easy.
It is quiet, dark, and peaceful here. As I said before, it is not close to anything. I remember our first year here: Micah forgot to grab beer, and we drove 45 minutes to pick some up at the Poplar Haus. So don't forget anything; check your list twice. Grand Marais is an hour-plus drive.
That being said, there are attractions. The Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center is just a few miles down the road from the campsite. The center has a few short hiking paths throughout the facilities and a couple of buildings displaying the area's landscape, animals, and history. They also have a little gift shop, and I have found some good books here. You can easily spend an hour or more happily wandering and taking everything in.
As for hikes, there are a few secret paths throughout the campground; they are not traditionally marked but are easy to find. The one I am thinking about is on the river near the rapids. The Magnetic Rock trail is twenty minutes outside the campground; this is probably the most popular hike. I have not done it due to Gobee getting up in age and her having little agility left in her hind legs, but friends hike it every year. According to them, it is an easy hike with a few scrambles that may be difficult for an elderly dog. The payoff is a 60-foot rock standing vertically, and yes, it does have a magnetic pull, along with views and a few off-shoot trails.
According to gunflinttrail.com, there are 20 hiking areas ranging from overnighters to easy milers; pick your poison and research.
If you are looking to paddle, there is no better place because you are sitting in the middle of the Boundry Waters. You can spend all day on the water and still want more time out. Paddling up here is limitless; ask one of the many local outfitters what you should check out.
If you are planning a trip, stay a minimum of 3 days, and it should be longer. You will be kicking yourself for not booking more time while driving back to Grand Marais.
To summarize, Trails End is my favorite campground in Minnesota, and I don't know if I will find a better one within the borders. The view from our campsite overlooking the river while hearing the rushing water is so exciting to me. Walking with Gobee in the mornings to catch the sunrise from another lake is so memorable because of where I am. Trails End is a special place.
Wi-Fi: None to Minimal.
Wood: No wood as of this year, need to purchase from outfitter or in Grand Marais. Being this is a State Forest you can scavenge, but I suggest purchasing.
Pets: Yes, must be on a leash.
Activities: Fishing, hiking, swimming, canoeing and kayaking.
Water: 8 out of 10, close to fresh spring water.
Campsite: I only suggest on water sites, luckily most are on water.
Surrounding Area: Chik-Wauk Museum, Poplar House for a nice dinner, Trail Center for supplies, Outfitters all around for Canoe Rentals. Plenty of hiking.
Link: Trails End Camp Ground
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