Moose Viewing Tour in Cook County

Searching for the Elusive Minnesota Moose? Look no Further than Cook County.

Moose are Minnesota’s largest animal, weighing 800-900 pounds, or about as much as four or five full-grown deer. The word “moose” is an Algonquin word meaning “twig-eater,” and indeed this mammal eats a massive amount of twigs and other brush. They have long legs and spreading hooves, which help them in marshes and deep snow. Moose have poor eyesight but great senses of smell and hearing. They are also excellent swimmers, known to cross lakes more than a mile wide.

Moose Habitat and Diet

In the summertime, moose like to hang out on hot days in wetlands areas to stay cool. For the best chance of seeing one of these massive creatures, we suggest driving the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway. The Gunflint Trail is a 57-mile long paved road that traverses the heart of moose country. Moose thrive in boggy lowlands where they can stay cool and have plenty of food available. Their choice edibles are a variety of plants including willow, red-osier dogwood, balsam fir and a variety of aquatic plants. In the wintertime, they’ve been known to be on the roadways licking the salt off left by the plow trucks. Regardless of the time of year you are out searching for moose, make sure to drive with caution. These four legged wonders have a tendency to hang out near the road so be sure to stay alert.

Calving Season and Population

Mating season for moose begins in October and continues through November. With any luck, calves will be born in May or June. Each calf stays with the mother for the first year until the following spring. While Cook County is one of the most pristine habitats for moose, the population is struggling. The Minnesota DNR and U.S. Forest Service are working to understand the moose and ways to help them thrive.

Celebrating the Moose

Annually in October we celebrate the majestic moose at the Moose Madness Festival in Grand Marais. It is a must-be-at event chock-full of family-friendly activities and critter themed games. Learn more about the event.

Moose-safari

Exploring the boreal forest by boat or on foot is the best way to find moose. Try to scout one by hiking on the designated Moose Viewing Trail on the Gunflint or by exploring any number of hiking trails in the region. Head up to Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center for a chance to not only view a moose on one of the nature center’s trails but also learn about moose and other wild creatures from a master naturalist. For your best chance, paddle through the heart of moose country in Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Even if you don’t see a moose, you’ll enjoy scenery that cannot be beat!

Moose Routes – Take a drive through prime Minnesota moose habitat

Option A: Greenwood Loop | Total mileage: 68.8 | Approximate drive time: 2 hours

Google Maps Route: https://goo.gl/maps/8KXohCKbhW92

Option B: Lima Grade Road | Total mileage: 53.3 | Approximate drive time: 1 hour

Google Maps Route: https://goo.gl/maps/GGao9fmE4xC2

Option C: Eagle Mountain Route | Total mileage: 57.5 miles | Approximate drive time: 1.5 hours

Google Maps Route: https://goo.gl/maps/U1nXZyaMy792

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