Canoeing the BWCAW 001

I asked some friends if they wanted to explore an old 1800’s abandoned mine in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The mine is located on the portage between Kelly and Jack Lakes about three miles and three portages into the BWCAW.

Wednesday was an absolutely beautiful day. Steve, Sue, Jacob, Jessie, Mike and I set out for a day of adventure. Steve and I had been to the mine before and knew the kids would love to explore the inside.

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BWCAW Mine 001

After some research we discovered that the mine was excavated around 1897. The miners carried their supplies 25 miles through the woods from Grand Marais. They were in search of gold and copper but found iron ore. In 1898 they used five dog-trains to haul one ton of the ore to Lutsen and eventually to St. Paul. The ore was not of as high quality as the ore on the Iron Range and the mine was abandoned.

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BWCAW Mine 002

Jessie and Jacob loved exploring the mine.

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BWCAW Mine 003

We used flashlights to hike to the far end of the mine where it disappeared under water. Jacob said it was the “coolest thing ever”.

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Counter Weights 001

Just outside the opening the remains of metal cans, pipes and the large weights used to counter balance the heavy rock as it was moved back from the opening were found. Hundreds of tons of waste rock lay piled in two neat rows paralleling the shaft. We could only imagine the trials and hardships the men faced as they traveled by foot, horseback and dog team into this wilderness area.

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Canoeing the BWCAW 002

The canoeing was as much fun as exploring the mine. It seemed like around every corner was another picture perfect view.

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Canoeing the BWCAW 003

The kids played in the water at every opportunity.

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Canoeing the BWCAW 004

I photographed Jessie standing on a rock looking at one of the many beautiful scenes we experienced that day. I couldn’t help but think if she will have the privilege of seeing as much of the BWCAW as I have over the years. I love introducing kids to new outdoor experiences. I can’t wait until my own granddaughter is old enough to travel into this beautiful wilderness area.

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