The Monument is in the northeastern area on the shore of Lake Superior. Take US Highway 61 thirty-six miles northeast of Grand Marais to the Monument. Duluth is 145 miles away, and Thunder Bay, Ontario, forty-five miles away.
WHEN TO VISIT
Open daily from mid-May to mid-October. Peak visitor month is August. Climate: January, 6 to 28 degrees F; July, 52 to 74 degrees F. Winters are very cold; Summers are nice, but may be windy and cool along the shore.
POINTS OF INTEREST
This nine-mile portage was a vital link on one of the principal routes for Indians, explorers, missionaries, and fur traders heading for the Northwest. The Grand Portage post of the North West Company has been reconstructed here, with stockade, great hall, kitchen, and canoe warehouse.
The fur traders (voyageurs) of the 18th and 19th century portaged their equipment nine miles to avoid the rapids and Falls of the Pigeon River. This was the central supply depot of the North West Company. Isle Royale National Park is about twenty-two miles by boat. Food, supplies, and overnight accommodations are available in Grand Portage, Grand Marais, Thunder Bay, and along the Lake Superior shore.