The Gunflint Trail is the modern, paved version of an old route which runs from the Lake Superior shore to the trail’s end near Saganaga Lake on the Canadian border.

Even the four centuries of European exploration and habitation don't seem like much compared to the 200 centuries that the Ojibwe Indians have populated the area. There are still rock paintings and other evidences of the ancient indigenous culture.

Beginning at the intersection with Highway 61 in Grand Marais, the Gunflint Trail (AKA Fifth Avenue West) climbs into the hills and provides vehicle access to a number of the Boundary Waters lakes.