Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center

06/05/2026

Coming up on Monday, June 8, Loons at Chik-Wauk! Stop by from 1:00–2:00 p.m. for a fascinating presentation by Naturalist Caroline and learn more about Minnesota’s beloved state bird.

Adding to the excitement, a loon’s nest with two eggs is located just behind the presentation area. With a little luck, one of the chicks may even hatch during the presentation—what an unforgettable experience that would be!

06/04/2026

If you've been keeping tabs on the loon pair nesting near Chik-Wauk, exciting news—they're in the homestretch! The two eggs are expected to hatch sometime next week, so loon chicks could be making their debut very soon.

You can follow the action live on the loon cam: https://www.youtube.com/live/txCEkX_n7rY

Keep an eye on the nest and see if you're lucky enough to witness the arrival of the newest members of the loon family!

Nest in place April 30, 2026. Another view of the loons nest can be seen at this link,https://www.sundewtech.net/chikwauk/chikwaukcam.jpgSome ice still remai...

06/03/2026

If you are wondering what is taking place at Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center during the week, here is something you may want to jot down on your calendar.

From guided hikes and Porch Talks to special family activities and opportunities to explore the exhibits, there is always something happening on the Chik-Wauk campus.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a longtime friend of the museum, weekly programs offer a chance to connect with the history, nature, and stories of the Gunflint Trail in a beautiful setting along the shores of Saganaga Lake.

Keep an eye on the weekly schedule and come spend part of your summer making memories at Chik-Wauk.

The Chik-Wauk Events Calendar is another way to keep up to date with the events taking place on Campus, visit https://gunflinthistory.org/calendar/.

06/02/2026

Someone is enjoying the snowless trails.

06/01/2026

Here are a few of the plants blooming around Chik-Wauk. What have you seen blooming on the Gunflint Trail?
-Canada Violet, Viola canadensis
- Bearberry, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Downy Blue Violet, Viola sororia
- June Berry, Amelanchier spp.

05/27/2026

April Leon Lynx videos.

05/23/2026

Welcome to Gunflint Trail Historical Society and the Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center!
Opening Day: The Season Begins!

The campus is now open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through October 18.

Since 1934, the original Chik-Wauk Lodge welcomed travelers to this special place along the Gunflint Trail until the resort closed in 1980. In 2010, the lodge began a new chapter as the Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, continuing a long tradition of hospitality, history, and connection to the Northwoods.

Admission includes access to the full campus:
• Adults: $6.00
• Children (ages 5-18): $3.00
• Children (ages 0-4): Free
• Senior Citizens and Military: $5
• Gunflint Trail Historical Society members: Free

* Chik-Wauk Museum — Discover the cultural and natural history of the Gunflint Trail.
* Nature Center — Explore exhibits featuring local wildlife, plants, weather, and water systems.
* Watercraft Exhibit Building — Follow the evolution of travel by water in this rugged region.
* Interpretive Cabin — Built on the site of a historic Chik-Wauk Lodge cabin.
* Trapper Shack — Experience a glimpse into traditional trapping life.

Visitors can also enjoy rotating exhibits, hiking trails, naturalist programs, visitor information, gift shop, and educational presentations.

Questions and suggestions are always welcome. Enjoy exploring this unique place along the Gunflint Trail!

05/22/2026

May 23, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm is the opening day!!

The Chik-Wauk campus will be open daily until October 18, 2026.
If you have not had a chance to check out the live loon camera, you are missing out. They have been on the nest since May 10, 2026. You can view the live feed here, https://www.youtube.com/live/txCEkX_n7rY.

Don't miss out on all the activities that will be taking place this summer. The calendar of events page can be found on the GunflintHistory.org website, https://gunflinthistory.org/calendar/

Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center is located roughly 57 miles towards the end of the Gunflint Trail on beautiful Saganaga Lake. Take a right on UT 81, or Moose Pond Drive. Plan ahead to enjoy a full day exploring the buildings. Bring a picnic lunch along to sit and enjoy the outdoors.
The campus does not have any running water, make sure to bring plenty of water with you if you go out hiking.
See you tomorrow!

05/20/2026

Wilderness Wednesday

Have not seen a black bear on the trail cameras for some time. This one was roaming the trails on May 1. Pretty plump for coming out of the winter hibernation. Looks very healthy, must have had some snacks stashed in their den.

05/19/2026

March trail camera sightings. Spoiler: they are all Leon!!