Primitive campsites are available along most of the rivers. Some sites have wilderness latrines and tent pads. Water must be treated for drinking. Explore Minnesota's northwoods on the waters of the Chippewa National Forest.
|
Travel the route of the Anishinabe Indians and the
early explorers. The Chippewa National Forest offers nine canoe routes, ranging from the
mighty Mississippi and the unpredictable Leech Lake to the slow moving Shingobee River and
other small creeks. These canoe routes offer excellent opportunities to view bald eagles,
loons, and a variety of northern Minnesota wildlife. Walleye, northern pike, and
panfishing is good along most of the routes. Extreme caution should be used in crossing
the large and unpredictable Winnibigoshish, Leech, and Cass Lakes. Primitive campsites are available along most of the rivers. Some sites have wilderness latrines and tent pads. Water must be treated for drinking. Explore Minnesota's northwoods on the waters of the Chippewa National Forest. |
| Canoe Routes | Length | Difficulty | Map | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turtle River | 16 miles | Easy | USFS | Good Eagle and waterfowl viewing, low water |
| N. Branch Turtle River | 14 miles | Easy | USFS | Several beaver dams below Pimushe Lake |
| Chippewa Headwaters Loop/ Pike Bay Connection | 120/8 miles | Most Difficult/ More Difficult | USFS | Use 3/8" recreation
map for navigation. Historic route - six portages |
| Mississippi River | 55 miles | Easy | DNR | Excellent eagle viewing |
| Big Fork River | 165 miles | More Difficult | DNR | Some whitewater beyond Bigfork |
| Rice River | 18 miles | Easy | USFS | Low water in dry years, blowdowns |
| Boy River | 23 miles | Moderate | USFS | Inguadona Canoe Route, good eagle viewing |