Hi, all. Upcoming paddle out of Gunflint Lake along the border lakes to the Fowl lakes for a summer series to come in Star Tribune Outdoors. Would like to hear this community’s take and notable experiences (fishing spots, camping, natural/historical wonders, anything you want to share) on this part of the Voyageur’s Highway. We’ve got some history going in, but always good to hear from others. Thanks much.

Here's a trip report that covers much of your proposed route.

Gunflint presents some interesting views of fire impact, as the north shore burned in the 2007 Ham Lake Fire but most of the south shore did not. There are beavers resident in Little Gunflint and Little North, so you can get a good view of a lodge or two there. Both going from Gunflint to Little Gunflint and from Little North to North there are several visible remnants of the Port Arthur, Duluth and Western Railway, which served the Paulson Mine. Crossing from North to South Lake of course has the Height of Land Portage, with geological and historical significance, along with prominent international border markers. Rose Lake has cliffs providing great views to hikers on the Border Route Trail. The outlet of South Fowl has a low-head dam belonging to the Ontario MNR, and I'm curious to know the backstory of how they got materials there to build that.

Good stuff. Thanks, both of you. Certainly areas, markers we're aware of, but some things not. Have been curious until now (and piqued by books, memoirs) about what remnants we'll encounter from all that rich history of commerce and exploration from way back.