Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway Entry to Boundary Waters in Minnesota

Enjoy a drive along the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway. This 57-mile paved road in Northern Minnesota gives you easy access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

While planning our summer trip along Lake Superior, I realized we would be close to the Boundary Waters. Checking out the map, I found a road called The Gunflint Trail. I saw numerous campgrounds accessed off the road, including one at the very end called Trails End Campground. I added the road and campground to our Lake Superior trip.

Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway in Minnesota

The Gunflint Trail starts in Grand Marais, Cook County, Minnesota. There are a few entry points in town, including some old vintage signage, which is a lot of fun.

The road starts with a steep climb out of town, passing through some business and residential areas. About five miles up the trail, we enjoyed the Devil Track Wildflower Sanctuary. It’s a beautiful little garden worth a short visit.

I expected a poorly groomed gravel road, but it is paved the entire way. There are only a few rough areas along the road, and you pass through a few towns.

Much of the Gunflint Trail passes through state and national forests. The trail has numerous lakes and campground access points, and the scenic areas are worth a quick stop.

roadside pull out along the gunflint trail

There are also signs for resorts and outfitters along the way. While we saw many vehicles with canoes and kayaks, there are plenty of places to rent them.

Paddle the Boundary Waters

We rented a canoe for a full day from Way of the Wilderness, at the trail’s end, next to the Trail’s End Campground. We paid $30 and enjoyed several hours paddling around the Boundary Waters.

clouds reflecting in a lake in the boundary waters

Moose and black bears surround the trail. One town had signs saying, “Baby moose in the area, please slow down.” Unfortunately, we did not see any moose or bears on our trip. We know that our lack of animal sightings was just a timing issue.

The Chik-Wauk Nature Center, located off the road a few miles from the end, is a great place to visit. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway is a must-visit for anyone exploring Northern Minnesota. Whether renting a canoe, enjoying the beauty of the wildflower sanctuary, or spotting local wildlife, this scenic drive offers something for everyone. We highly recommend you include it in your travel plans for an unforgettable adventure.