Posted in Minnesota November 16, 2019 by

Take A Journey To The Past On A Trek Across Hegman Lake, A Minnesota Hike That Can Only Be Done In Wintertime

Minnesotans are a hardy bunch, and we rarely let bad weather stop us from having a good time. That’s why there are few things in the Land of 10,000 Lakes that you can’t do all year long. There are a few, though, and today we want to introduce you to a hike that you can only do in winter. Why? Because it’s across a frozen lake. Finish the hike, and you’ll come face-to-face with 500-year-old pictographs on a northern Minnesota cliff. Here’s all you need to know about taking a winter journey to the Hegman Lake Pictographs.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
North Hegman Lake is a beautiful northern Minnesota lake around 15 miles north of Ely. It's a popular place to visit in the summertime, when canoeing is possible, thanks to the 500-year-old pictographs that line one of the lake's cliffs.
Jay Wilson/Flickr
But for those who don't have canoes - or who simply don't enjoy paddling - there might be an easier way to cross the lake. Visit in winter, when North Hegman Lake is frozen, for a serene hike across the water.
Audubon Center of the North Woods/Flickr
Along the way, you'll see waterfront cliffs covered in ice and snow. It's much different from the lush landscape that makes up the lake in the warmer months.
Chad Fennell/Flickr
While it is beautiful, this hike is not for the faint of heart. You'll need sturdy boots - or better yet, snowshoes or cross-country skis - to take the journey safely.
Nils Dybvig/Flickr
But if you're all bundled up and have the right equipment, this trip is a dream! It'll take about a half day to make it to your final destination and back.
Nils Dybvig/Flickr
When you reach the pictographs, you'll know your trip was worth it. Carefully drawn onto the cliff face in bright red pigment is a pictograph scene thought to be at least 500 years old.
Chad Fennell/Flickr
The pictograph depicts a human, a moose, and what appears to be a set of canoes surrounding them. It's a fascinating glimpse into the people who first lived in Minnesota so long ago.
Chad Fennell/Flickr

Have you heard of the Hegman Lake Pictographs? Would you ever trek across a frozen lake to see them? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Address: 2348-2358 Ely-Buyck Rd, Ely, MN 55731, USA