Minnesota's #1 Most Unknown Bucket List Travel Idea
Explore the Northernmost Point of the USA
Imagine standing at a point in the United States where you are closer to Canada than the contigous United States.
January 18, 2024
Welcome to the Northwest Angle, a remote and unique destination tucked away in the northernmost reaches of Minnesota. This hidden gem offers an adventure like no other, making it a must-do for any avid traveler’s bucket list.
The journey to the Northwest Angle is an adventure in itself. The Angle is accessible by land, open water, and frozen. In winter months, you can snowmobile across Lake of the Woods on the frozen trails. During COVID-19, the US residents needed to get back into the country but were not allowed to cross into Canada, trapping them on the inlet. Their resilience and adaptability shined through, and they built an ice road to drive on. This avoided the restricted government border crossing. The ice road was a thrill but is no longer needed. No matter how you get there, it means navigating through the pristine wilderness of northern Minnesota. As you drive through the winding roads and dense forest, you will feel the anticipation building for the remote paradise that awaits.
Getting to the Angle is an adventure in itself
A passport or an enhanced drivers license is required to visit the Northwest Angle. To drive the road, you must exit the United States and enter Canada. At the border crossing, you are required to show your passport. Do not travel with guns, pepper spray, live bait or minnows or firewood. You can cross the border in Warroard or Roseau.
There are a few other options to get to the Northwest Angle that add to the adventure.
1. Snowmobile Up – There are a couple of groomed trails that take you across Lake of the Woods and keep you in Minnesota via traveling over the frozen waters.
2. Bombardier Ride- A tracked vehicle that travels over the ice of Lake of the Woods With this option, you can sit back and enjoy the vie
3. Lake Country Air provides custom flight options for year-round travel. https://www.facebook.co
m/Flylca From Roseau or Warroad, a short 15-minute flight gets you to the Inlet. In the winter months experience landing the plane on the ice.Â
The Angle's Unique Geography and Prestine Beauty
The Northwest Angle is a geographical oddity, a part of the U.S. only separated from the rest of the country by the vast Lake of the Woods. Its isolation gives it a distinct charm, surrounded by pristine lakes and dense forests. The scenery is breathtaking, and the tranquility is unparalleled. This year the Northern Lights put on quite the show. The Northwest Angles remote setting gives you prime viewing when the solar display is visible. Â
Wildlife encounters and legendary fishing
For fishing enthusiasts, the Northwest Angle is a dream destination. The area is renowned for its world-class fishing opportunities, with an abundance of walleye, northern pike, and muskie. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, casting your line in these pristine waters is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls the Northwest Angle home. From majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to elusive moose wandering through the woods, the area provides a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world in its purest form.
Photo Credit: Heather Morey Photography
The Angle Inlet - Population 54 -Its not an easy life but its a good life.
At the heart of the Northwest Angle is Angle Inlet, a small community of 54 residents. While here, engage with the locals, learn about the area’s history, and savor the warmth of true northern hospitality. Pull up a bar stool at Sunset Lodge, known for delicious food and well of course, amazing sunsets. Mail a postcard from their rural island Post Office. This community’s resilience in the face of its remote location is a testament to the spirit of those who call the Northwest Angle home. Watch the locals and imagine living year-round here. It might not be the easiest of living but it’s a darn good life.
Fun Fact: David Johnson, Co Founder of Polaris, had a place at the Angle. The first snowmobile was built to assist him in getting supplies across the frozen lake to his favorite hunting and fishing spots. Snowmobiling has made life easier since at the Angle since 1954.
The Iconic Point -Bucklist this Photo
The true highlight of any visit to the Northwest Angle is reaching the northernmost point of the contiguous United States. Standing at the iconic North Point, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and awe. Capture the moment with a selfie as you gaze out over the vastness of Lake of the Woods, knowing that you’re at a point few have had the privilege to experience.Â
Minnesota's Most Hidden Bucketlist Adventure
Visiting the Northwest Angle and reaching the northernmost point of the U.S. is not just a journey; it’s an adventure filled with unique experiences and unparalleled beauty. Add this hidden gem to your bucket list, and embark on a quest to discover the remote and captivating wonders of the Northwest Angle – a destination like no other in the United States.
To experience the Northwest Angle watch this video
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