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Bemidji Area Recreation
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CANOEING,
MINNESOTA FAMILY VACATIONS |
| Travel the route of the Ojibwa Indians and the early explorers. The
Mississippi River Headwaters canoe route fluctuates dramatically from large marshes to
intimate pine-lined corridors. The marsh areas are prime waterfowl habitat.
The Mississippi, considered the greatest of American rivers
presents many different faces to canoeists. For a wild and
intimate setting, paddle the headwaters. Begin at Itasca State
Park and paddle to Bemidji. This can take two to three
days. Be sure the water level is high enough to carry you over
any obstructions. Be prepared to pull the canoe over or portage
around beaver dams. You will encounter several easy
rapids. Because of extensive wetlands, the river's shorelines
are lightly developed for its first 50 miles. Public rest areas
are available along the route to rest, picnic and explore. Camp
only in designated campsites, which are available on a first
come-first serve basis. Bring drinking water. |
The Turtle River winds gently for 15 miles through marshes and
sparsely settled woods northeast of Bemidji. Large beds of rice
are at the beginning of the run. The Turtle was used by loggers
nearly a century ago to float large red and white pine logs to
mill. "Splash dams" were built on the river to
temporarily raise the water level. Watch for bald eagles since
many nest in the area.
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| The
Chippewa National Forest offers nine canoe routes. The routes offer
excellent
opportunities to view bald eagles, loons and ospreys. Walleye, northern and
pan fishing is good along most of the routes. Extreme caution should be used in
crossing the large and unpredictable Winnibigoshish, Leech and Cass Lakes. |
| Mississippi River Headwaters |
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See where the world's
third longest river begins its run to the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors are welcome to
cross the Headwaters by the footbridge or wading across stepping stones. You can
visit a Norway Pine grove, the ancient Indian burial mounds, the buffalo pasture or follow
a trail that leads you through forests and along the shore of Lake Itasca, or to picnic
grounds. There's a staffed Interpretive Center offering educational
activities. Boats, fishing gear and other rentals are all available. Douglas
Lodge is open for dining.
There are several ways to experience and explore the
beginnings of the Mississippi River. Take an excursion on the Chester Charles tour boat
for a day or evening narrated cruise that journeys the same route traveled by early
discoverers of the river. Or canoe the historic waters once known only to Native
Americans. There are five state-designed canoe routes lasting from hours to several
days and rated for beginning to experienced canoeists. |
| Guides
and Equipment
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Canoe
Route Maps |
Public
Access Maps |
Mississippi
River Level |
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