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It’s so far north that you must cross into Canada and then cross the US border into “The Angle.” Then cross both borders on the drive back. Northwest Angle, as it’s called, is due to a surveying error back in 1783. The Treaty of 1783 between Great Britain and the fledgling United States, the “Angle,” juts into Canada. It’s 100 miles north of any other US/Canada border point. Of course, you can fly there or go by boat when Lake of the Woods isn’t frozen. That means you won’t need the Minnesota to Canada Border Crossings! In the winter, you can cross with a snowmobile or on a maintained ice road. (If you want to go back to the post about all of Northern Minnesota, click or tap here.)
Northwest Angle
By the way, I will post some of my pictures here after an August visit. I’m providing you with this information so you might consider visiting here when planning your Minnesota vacation! If you have questions, please contact me.
As mentioned above, a surveying error in the late 1700s added this section to the US in the area that would become the State of Minnesota. The Angle (as locals call it) came about due to reliance on a map that misidentified the source of the Mississippi and the shape of Lake of the Woods.
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The Northwest Angle’s primary industry is tourism. Much of that is fishing. Here’s a link to the listing of Northwest Angle Resorts. Several of these receive 5-star reviews on Trip Advisor. For example, Young’s Bay Resort (5 reviews), Jake’s Northwest Angle (5 reviews), Sunset Lodge (168 reviews), and Angle Outpost Resort (5 reviews). By the way, the Sunset Lodge is on Oak Island in Lake of the Woods.
The Angle incorporates Minnesota’s last one-room public school and the northernmost post office in the lower 48.
More to do in the Angle
Besides fishing and historic places, the Angle maintains a golf course, biking and hiking trails, and water sports. By the way, the Angle is just now recovering from two+ years of COVID when Canada didn’t let Americans cross the border, making the Angle only accessible by air and water.
Canada makes up three of the Northwest Angles’ borders. The southern border lies within Lake of the Woods, which enters Canada on both the west and the east. By the way, Minnesota borders the province of Ontario on the north and east sides. The western side borders the province of Manitoba.
The 2020 US census shows a population of 149 living in The Angle. About 30 of these live on islands in Lake of the Woods. That gives new meaning to “isolated living!”
Want to see a shop for my road trip photos? You can have them printed as wall art or puzzles. They also work on coffee mugs, t-shirts and more! So, take a look. Maybe you'll see something you will like!
Other histories of the Northwest Angle & Minnesota to Canada Border Crossings
The Northwest Angle has a rich history dating back to the 1700s when it was used as a trading post by the Ojibwe people. It was later claimed by both the United States and Canada, leading to a dispute that was finally resolved in 1783 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Today, as I write this in 2023, the Angle is home to a small community of around 120 people who rely on tourism and fishing for their livelihoods.
The climate in the Northwest Angle is characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. The area receives significant snowfall during the winter months, making it a popular destination for snowmobiling and other winter sports.
Despite its remote location, the Northwest Angle is home to a small but vibrant community of people who have lived in the area for generations. The community largely depends on fishing and tourism for its livelihood, and several resorts and lodges in the area cater to visitors.
Economy & Minnesota to Canada Border Crossings Fishing
The Northwest Angle is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The area is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The local resorts and fishing guides offer a range of services, from boat rentals to guided fishing trips.
Hunting
In addition to fishing, the Northwest Angle is also a popular destination for hunting. The area is home to various game species, including black bears, whitetail deer, and waterfowl. Local outfitters offer guided hunting trips and other services to help visitors make the most of their hunting experience.
Tourism
Tourism is a significant part of the economy in the Northwest Angle. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition to fishing and hunting, visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and other activities.
Of course, the local resorts and lodges offer a range of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxurious lodges. Visitors can also find a variety of restaurants and shops in the area.
The tourism industry in the Northwest Angle is an important source of jobs and economic activity for the local community. The area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities make it a popular destination for visitors worldwide.
More information and pictures are coming soon, some about the Minnesota to Canada Border Crossings
Above, I referenced an upcoming trip here. After the visit, I’ll update this post with pictures and more about my experiences. Many people want to visit these extreme places “because they are there!”
The Angle does have a Minnesota State Park on an island in Lake of the Woods. Although it’s just a Recreation area, not a “full” state park, I hope to visit it in my quest to visit every state park in Minnesota.
Conclusion
Visiting the Northwest Angle of Minnesota is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into a remote and beautiful part of the United States. While the journey to get there can be challenging, the reward is well worth it. Chiefly, the area is rich in natural beauty and wildlife, and the small communities that make up the Angle are welcoming to visitors.
One of the most notable features of the Northwest Angle is its location. The Angle is the northernmost point in the contiguous United States, and it is surrounded by the waters of Lake of the Woods. This makes it a popular destination for fishing and other water-based activities. Of course, you’ll want a link to go back to “Where the Mississippi River Begins!”
Or you may want to visit the Minnesota North Shore of Lake Superior or the post about 100+ Reasons to Love Minnesota.
However, it’s also one of those places where you just want to say, “I’ve been there!” And thank you for visiting Minnesota to Canada Border Crossings.
Classic Rock Recollection
“A Day in the Life” by The Beatles
I read the news today, oh boy
About a lucky man who made the grade
And though the news was rather sad
Well, I just had to laugh
I saw the photograph
Songwriters: John Lennon & Paul McCartney (because I wanted to include this one! Even if it doesn’t fit!)
#northwest angle #lakeofthewoods #Minnesotatocanadabordercrossing