Minnesota's first kayak trail celebrates the one-year anniversary of its completion this summer, and already it's being heralded as a national gem. Paddler magazine included the Lake Superior Water Trail in its list of "America's Best Water Trails."
The Lake Superior Water Trail—a shoreline route of designated campsites and rest areas from Duluth to the Pigeon River on the Canadian border—not only offers great kayaking amid stunning scenery, but it also offers lots to do on shore. "You can beach your kayak and go hiking on the Superior Hiking Trail, have a picnic in Tettegouche State Park, or even have dinner at a nice restaurant in Grand Marais," says Steve Mueller, DNR Trails and Waterways water recreation program coordinator.
The DNR and the Lake Superior Water Trail Association, a citizens group, developed the trail in response to the rising popularity of kayaking. In 2005 Minnesota had almost 26,000 registered kayaks—double the number in 2000—making kayaking one of the state's fastest growing outdoor sports. "A water trail is a good way to manage the growth and provide a safe route for kayaking," says Mueller. He says funneling kayak traffic into a designated area gives kayakers a chance to go ashore and rest without trespassing. Thus, the trail could improve safety and reduce conflicts.
Establishing the water trail meant identifying campsites and rest stops, negotiating with landowners for easements, and preparing a Web site and informational materials for kayakers to navigate the North Shore. The volunteer trail association handled much of the work. DNR Trails and Waterways provided guidance and administrative support and published a set of four maps depicting the trail's four sections.
Nonmotorized boat registration fees funded all DNR work. "We're lucky to be one of the states in the country that charges registration fees for canoes and kayaks, so we have resources for projects like this and for the continued maintenance of campsites for nonmotorized boats," says Mueller.
If you're planning to head out on the Lake Superior Water Trail this summer, Mueller has one piece of advice: Get instructions on safe paddling before you head out.
"Lake Superior can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing," he says. Start with a guided trip from one of the many North Shore kayak outfitters. Or enroll in a class with the University of Minnesota-Duluth Recreational Sports Outdoor Program (218-726-7128, www.umdrsop.org). For water trail maps, go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/kayaking/lswt/maps.html. Or call the DNR Information Center at 888-MINNDNR.
Gustave Axelson
