The Gunflint Trail Historical Society

The Gunflint Trail Historical Society (GTHS) formed in 2005 to preserve the history of the Gunflint Trail. At the time of its formation, the chief objective of the GTHS was to restore and convert the old Chik-Wauk Lodge -- located on Saganaga Lake, 55 miles up the Gunflint Trail -- into the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center.

For five years, the GTHS gathered oral histories, pictures, documents, and relevant artifacts to use in and help develop the museum. The GTHS also worked with the museum outfitter company Split Rock Studios to design the museum. Meanwhile, a core group of volunteers developed six hiking trails on the property surrounding the old lodge building. Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center opened on July 4, 2010. To date, the museum has welcomed more than 20,000 visitors.

Inside Chik-Wauk, visitors find the story of the Gunflint Trail, told with a focus on the seven key groups of people who have passed through or lived in the region: Prehistoric, Native Americans, Voyageurs, Miners, Loggers, Resorters, and Current Residents. The museum features interpretative and interactive displays including touchscreen video monitors, a theatre area, booklets of information on area flora and fauna, and a reading library. The museum is open every day, Memorial Day weekend through MEA weekend in mid-October.

Outside, a network of hiking trails crisscross 50 acres of wetlands, bogs, and granite ridges. The grounds provide year-round opportunities for birding, wildflower viewing, even moose spotting! Two of Chik-Wauk's six nature trails are ADA accessible. During the summer months, a variety of naturalist programs are offered.

The GTHS continues to move forward with its mission of preserving Gunflint Trail history. Current plans include reconstructing a Chik-Wauk Lodge rental cabin in its original location on the property to serve as a nature center, developing archival storage, expanding program and exhibit offerings, and conducting oral history interviews.

Your support strengthens the Gunflint Trail Historical Society. Thank you!

Please note: If you would like your donation to be applied to a GTHS membership, please write "GTHS membership" in the designation field.