Superior National Forest

National Treasure Visited #28 on Shea’s Ultimate American Quest
First Experienced During Quest On: August 17, 2024

Tucked into the northeastern corner of Minnesota, the Superior National Forest spans over 3 million acres of pristine wilderness, offering one of the most spectacular natural experiences in the United States. Home to the famed Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, this national forest features over 1,000 glacial lakes, extensive pine and hardwood forests, and rugged ridgelines that provide sanctuary for moose, wolves, black bears, and countless bird species.

Superior National Forest is a National Treasure with immense ecological, cultural, and recreational value. It preserves vast tracts of boreal forest and clean freshwater systems, playing a critical role in biodiversity conservation and watershed health. For visitors, it’s a haven for canoeing, hiking, fishing, and backcountry camping, offering deep solitude and a rare opportunity to connect with the rhythms of the natural world.

Steeped in Indigenous history and traditional use, the forest also serves as a living landscape where nature and culture intertwine. Its protected status ensures future generations can continue to experience the awe, peace, and wonder that only true wilderness can provide.

A wooden canoe with blue gear inside is docked along the rocky, forested shoreline of a peaceful lake. The lake is bordered by dense, green trees under a cloudy sky. A few large rocks are visible in the water near the distant shore. Sparse aquatic plants grow near the canoe.

Shea's Videos and Travel Journal Entries Tagged with Superior National Forest

Dispersed Camping Near Two Harbors copy
To say I enjoyed myself with my friends Lynn and Erik would be a monstrous understatement; leaving was difficult, but I had a lighthouse and waterfalls to visit on Lake Superior.
Tall rock face with vertical striations, featuring a variety of brown and gray hues in the Boundary Waters terrain. Sparse green vegetation grows in crevices. The surface is weathered, with dark streaks and some moss. Sunlight illuminates the upper left corner, creating a soft glow.
One of the fantastic things I was introduced to while visiting Lynn and Erik was canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. And we saw pictographs by the water!
A serene lake under a cloudy sky, surrounded by dense forest. The water reflects the overcast clouds, and the shoreline is dotted with rocks and sparse vegetation. Tall trees line the horizon, creating a peaceful and natural scene.
Three people in a yellow canoe on a lake: a smiling front person with glasses and a wide-brimmed hat, a middle person with dark sunglasses and a red life jacket, and a back person wearing a cap. The background features evergreen trees and a rocky shore under a partly cloudy sky.
Ancient rock painting on a rugged stone surface depicting a red human-like figure with raised arms and two horizontal lines overhead. Nearby are red geometric shapes and faded markings. The surrounding rock is weathered, with patches of moss and small plants at the base.