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The eight and half mile long "Grand Portage" was first used around 1765 by English fur traders to bypass several dangerous rapids (including High Falls) on the lower Pigeon River. The trail connected Fort Charlotte on the Pigeon River with the trade depot and stockade on the shore of Lake Superior that was the headquarters of the fur trade operation of the North West Company. Today, a reconstructed fort (pictured above) rests at the site of the original palisade and forms the nucleus of the Grand Portage National Park. The stockade wall forming the perimeter of the fort and four of the original 16 buildings have been recreated. Costumed interpreters portraying tradesmen and workers recreate the era as they prepare for the annual rendezvous of voyageurs and traders in the Great Hall.
Ambitious backpackers can retrace the footsteps of the "pork eaters" and north men. The Boy Scouts cleared the trail for hiking in the late 1940's and hiking clubs today continue to make improvements. One of the many falls and rapids on the Pigeon River that made the portage necessary is High Falls now preserved as part of the Minnesota Grand Portage State Park. For those not up to 8 1/2 mile uphill trek, shorter day hikes at the Grand Portage National Monument are available at Rose Mountain and Mount Josephine.
Crossing the border into Canada? Get Acquainted with 2009 Passport Regulations - There are new requirements for motor travel between the United States and Canada.
The Stockade & North West Company Post
Two "employees" of the North West Company begin their work day as the post prepares for the annual rendezvous of traders and voyageurs. You step back in history 200 years as you tour the stockade and talk to the friendly staff as they perform their duties. A fascinating and educational experience that gives you insight into the role the Boundary Waters played in the exploration and eventual settlement of this region. Operated by the National Park Service. The new Heritage Center has more exhibits on 18th Century life during the Voyageur Era. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The trail is fairly steep but is paved in many places and several sets of stairs help the ascent . . . while giving your legs a workout! Donna and Jo counted a total of 170 flights of stairs. We didn't learn until the next day in Grand Marais that nearby there is a more challenging trail to the top of Mount Josephine (1300 ft elevation). We'll catch that one in a future year. 
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