Here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, there are literally endless possibilities for lake kayaking. It would take 30 years to kayak a different lake every day. But there are some that stand out above others. Lake Superior is an obvious kayak lake, but its choppy waters mean it could be a risky choice for novice kayakers. Other big lakes, like Rainy Lake, are calmer. But its a huge expanse and many could be intimidating to navigate. That's why we think the best kayaking lake in Minnesota is one you may have never heard of. North Hegman Lake is a small lake in the Boundary Waters that holds an amazing piece of history. It's a must for kayakers! Read on below to learn more:
North Hegman Lake is a small but beautiful lake found in northern Minnesota's Boundary Waters. It covers 70 acres and is a great place for fishing.
North Hegman Lake is also a great place for paddling. The water is still, with no rapids or choppy waves. It also offers easy access to two other lakes: Trease Lake, which you can paddle into, and South Hegman Lake, which is accessible via an easy portage.
Being in the Boundary Waters, this lake is surrounded by pristine wilderness. It's surrounded by trees and rocky cliffs. If you'e lucky, you'll spot one of the many wild animals who make homes here, from waterfowl and eagles to deer and moose.
The lake is also home to a special secret. If you paddle for a while...
...you'll soon come to a series of tall cliffs surrounding the water. These alone are impressive. But if you look closely, you'll find a piece of Minnesota history.
The cliffs are the site of the Hegman Lake Pictographs. These Native American pictographs depict a moose, a wolf, and several other figures in red pigment. They're thought to be up to 1,000 years old!
Between the peace and quiet, gorgeous forest and cliff surroundings, and historic pictographs, it's no wonder that North Hegman Lake is a popular place to visit! Next time you're looking for a unique paddling trip, consider planning one here!
Have you ever visited the Hegman Lake Pictographs? If you prefer to stay on foot, you can also visit them in winter when the ground freezes! Click here to learn more about winter visits. And if you're looking for another piece of history in Minnesota, consider paying a visit to Jeffers Petroglyphs!
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