The Good Life

Grand Marais, Minnesota

Posted October 20th, 2008 by David Fair

I recently realized one of my long-term goals – to relocate to the north shore of Lake Superior. Grand Marais, Minnesota to be exact.

It is known for its remoteness. If “remote” means not having a Walmart, McDonalds, or Starbucks, then, yes, it is remote. It is a two-hour drive to the nearest big city (Duluth), where you can find such luxuries. Even so, the remote, wild quality of northern Minnesota is one of its greatest charms.

Located on the popular north shore of Lake Superior, Grand Marais boasts an official population of just over 1300. According to residents, this number climbs into the tens of thousands during the summer months when tourism is at its height. I have also found that the months of September and October bring flocks of “leaf peepers” to view and photograph the spectacular fall foliage. And winter is no less appealing, since the area is widely known for its skiing and snow mobile tracks.

Fishing is a year-round industry here in the land of 10,000 lakes, and, not to be outdone, artists of all stripes seem drawn to the rugged beauty of the region. I recently read that the north shore boasts 16 art galleries along its scenic highway 61, which runs into neighboring Canada.

The following slideshow is from the GrandMarais.com website and displays some beautiful pictures of the area.  Enjoy!

http://davidfair.me/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/grandmarais1.flv

Tags: grandmarais, minnesota

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