Last updated: October 29, 2023
Thing to Do
Hike Gichi Onigaming (Grand Portage)
NPS photo / B. Clayton
Walking Through Time
Take a trip through history by hiking a trail that has been in use for thousands of years! Gichi Onigamiing, the Great Carrying Place, was part of an extensive cross-continent trade network before European contact. Early French fur traders translated the name to Grand Portage (portager = to carry). Whether you walk a short distance or the whole length, the Grand Portage is a wonderful way to experience the southern boreal forest and walk in the footsteps of the voyageurs.
- Two remote campsites are available to hikers and paddlers with a free backcountry permit. This is the only camping allowed on the trail.
- Bicycles are prohibited on the trails at Grand Portage National Monument.
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Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings at Fort Charlotte.
Today's portage trail corridor can be thought of in two parts: the eastern "half" that passes through gaps and valleys to avoid the high rocky ridges, and the western "half" that passes over elevated terrain to avoid steep slopes and swamps. The parking area at Old Highway 61 approximately divides the halves so hikers can choose the exploration into history of their choice.
Portage of the Fur Trade
The Grand Portage corridor is a recent focus of archeological investigations. Using data collected by David Thompson, former Nor'wester and surveyor for the international boundary commission, archeologists traced the 1821 portage using GIS technology. Thompson's 1821 portage data, it turned out, compared closely with the present portage configuration.
Cultural features investigated by archeological teams include the resting places (poses in French) referred to in fur trade journals. Other features located along the portage such as watering holes called "the Fountain," "the Parting Trees," one that offered the last glimpse voyageurs had of Lake Superior and home while weighed down by their 180 pound burdens, and a place called "the Meadow" of "rich grass fields." From 1963-1976 a series of dives, sponsored by the Quetico-Superior Underwater Research Project, took place near historic Pigeon River canoe landings at Fort Charlotte. Divers found an assortment of artifacts including materials from birch canoes, cedar paddles, and footwear; items only preserved because of the anaerobic conditions in the river bottom sediments.
These types of investigation offer glimpses into the culture and lifestyle of those who used the trail. In 2003, while researching a potential pose site, a re-enactor assisting the archeologists uncovered an example of silver moon trade silver etched with a peacock-like design. It is now on display in the Heritage Center.
Details
Duration
3-48 Hours
- Hike the Grand Portage footpath from the depot to new Highway 61 (1½ mile round trip - about half an hour)
- Hike the Grand Portage footpath from the depot to Old Highway 61 (8 miles round trip - three to four hours)
- From Old Highway 61 to Fort Charlotte (nine miles round trip - six to eight hours)
- Hike the entire Grand Portage footpath from the stockade on Lake Superior to Fort Charlotte and back (17 miles round trip - eight to 16 hours)
- Camp overnight at Fort Charlotte - obtain your backcountry permit online (allow two weeks to process)
Activity
Canoe or Kayak Camping
A popular choice is to begin a canoe trip that leads to the Pigeon River, culminating at Fort Charlotte. From Fort Charlotte, equipment is portaged to Lake Superior, where some people continue by the lake to other destinations along the shoreline.
Age(s)
All ages are welcome if prepared. This is a strenuous hike.
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are allowed on a 6' leash. For their own safety, consider leaving them at home. Pet excrement must be removed if it is within 200 feet of trail, campsite, or water.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Grand Portage footpath
The eight and a half mile Grand Portage footpath extends from Lake Superior at the reconstructed Depot along a natural rift in the landscape to the Pigeon River at Fort Charlotte. The North West Company built these two structures to receive and ship goods, effectively dominated trade during the years they were there. The trail was in use for 1000s of years as part of an extensive trade network that predates European contact. It is a geolgic feature, partially carved by glacial runoff at the end of the Ice Age.
Reservations
Yes
A permit is required to camp at Fort Charlotte. Please fill out the online form completely and allow two weeks to process.
Season
Year Round
The Grand Portage is open year round. Fort Charlotte campsites are not maintained in the winter. This area receives a lot of snow. Winter travel is best on snowshoes or skis. Check conditions prior to arrival.
Time of Day
Day
This is a remote, forested area with no ambient light. Because of uneven footing and muddy conditions, travel during daylight hours is recommended.
Accessibility Information
The Grand Portage steep and narrow in places with uneven, rocky footing and areas of standing water. It is not wheelchair accessible.