North Shore of Lake Superior – Spring 2024

So you’ve heard of the North Shore of Lake Superior uh? The wind-swept lands of wolves, rocks, trees, waterfalls, and raging storms. It’s hard to beat.

The North Shore is still one of those precious gems that haven’t quite been overrun by the teaming hordes of developers who run their dozers everywhere putting in resorts and the like. It’s probably coming and getting closer, but it hasn’t happened yet. The best part about visiting the North Shore of Lake Superior early in the spring, say March, is that the vacations haven’t descended with their BMWs and Escalades yet, it’s very quiet and relaxed.

From Two Harbors to Grand Marais the restaurants are not that busy, and the many waterfalls and State Parks aren’t teaming with screaming children and city folk.

The weather can be quite nice or quite not nice in the Spring along the North Shore, it can go from 50’s and calm to 17 degrees with gale-force winds.

Some places you have to stop if you are on the North Shore in the Spring.

    • Cascade River State Park
    • Nice easy walking with tons of waterfalls, you will have the place to yourself.
    • Baptism River and campground along with Tettegouche State Park
      • year-round heated showers and restrooms, a short walk to Baptism River, and more waterfalls.
    • The Angry Trout is the best place to eat in Grand Marais
    • Get pie from Betties or Rustic Inn and Cafe
    • Split Rock Lighthouse and hiking at Split Rock State Park.
      • beautiful hikes along the lake with many rock beaches to explore
    • Castle Danger brewery

Honestly, the best part about a weekend camping or visiting the North Shore in the early Spring is simply not dealing with the crowds. It’s mostly just locals out and about, with a few hardy camping souls mixed in. You will have all the waterfalls, beaches, and trails to yourself for the most part … with just a few stragglers here and there.

The weather can border on bad, but it’s manageable if you are prepared.

The best way to deal with this is to plan a trip that is a mix of exploring the woods, waterfalls, and lakes, along with plenty of stops at restaurants, towns, etc. This gives you a break from the wind and the waves you might need.

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Fishing in Mountain Lion Country

It’s becoming more and more common all across the country … from the Midwest to the West Coast and back again, to run into Mountain Lions in the woods. With successful reintroductions and an exploding population of deer and other small game, Mountain Lions are making a serious comeback in many areas where they were previously never found.

This has been the case for the wandering of the Average Flatlanders recently. The past few years have been a constant stream of news reports and videos of Mountain Lions traveling around the area we call home.

Recently we went fishing in the same spot where numerous Mountain Lion traps have been set.

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Hot Tents Rule!

The Average Flatlanders have discovered a new love. Hot Tents. They are the best.

  • They keep you warm
  • You can cook food in them
  • What else do you need?

We’ve been out a few times with our Hot Tents this cold winter. Check out the below videos!

 

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Camping and Fishing in the Almost Boundary Waters

Ever heard of the Boundary Waters? Probably. Ever been there? Probably not.

This is one of those areas steeped in tradition and folklore, everyone knows someone who has “gone to the Boundary Waters,” but few people themselves have actually done the dirty deed. Well, six Average Flatlanders packed up the cars, the fishing poles, and little pickle, and headed up to the North Country to explore the Boundary Waters area and find Bigfoot if possible.

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Homage to Trekking Poles and Their Uses

Disclosure: This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

I used to have a granddaddy who told me that a good walking stick was akin to the support of a loving family in most situations. They help you get along when times are tough, they hold you up through it all, and they stick with you when the going is tough (sorry I couldn’t resist).

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3 Things to Consider When Pickin’ that Tinder.

The first thing on the list is the conditions!

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On the Fabric of Tarps and Life

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2 things that most Woodsmen encounter in life…

 

One is the rain.
Two is condensation because you are trapped inside a structure somewhere it is raining.

 

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How to Catch Crappie

One of the un-sung heroes of the fishing world and one of the hardest is Crappie Fishing.

They are not as numerous as bass or catfishing, they are harder to find, and even trickier to catch. But when you can find one, you can find more, and boy are the fun to catch and eat!

How do you catch crappies?

  • Use small jigs and lures (panfish size)
  • Find structures, rocks, bridges, trees, and other underwater clutter.

Watch the Average Flander do just that under a bridge on a small stream.

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Not Just Another Day Bag

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Hey Flatlanders, it’s another beautiful day here in the Midwest, and the heat of summer is passing, giving way to my favorite time of the year. Fall is my favorite. With the cooler weather and nightly temps dropping once more into the 60s and below, the potential for fun is there. This is the time I begin altering my day bag for quick adventures outside. Here is a helpful list if you are trying to make that fall bag for your next adventure. This particular rig is best for bushcraft, but much of it is applicable to any day bag.

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Planning Big Outdoor Adventure Trips with Kids

Exploring the great outdoors can be a thrilling experience for families. With the promise of fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and bonding moments, embarking on an outdoor adventure with your children can create memories that last a lifetime. However, planning such a trip, especially with kids in tow, requires special considerations.

I’ve been taking my kids on outdoor adventures since they were weeks old. My first daughter who was born on February 11th, spent the first weeks of her life wrapped inside my coat snowshoeing on windswept Wisconsin lakes and woods. It’s never too early to start. Most people shy away when thinking about taking on big mountain adventures with kids. Not us. We embrace it.

Here’s a guide to ensure that your adventure is both enjoyable and safe.

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