It’s the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S. It is where the 14,552 islands begin. It’s an area that people actually have to drive through Canada to get to unless they go via water or ice. It’s where many people come to get away from life and experience world class fishing, resort life, beauty, nature and some cheap psychology. Some call it the boundary waters (referring to the famous canoe only area) with no motor restrictions. It’s Minnesota’s NW Angle.

For some time, there has been the idea of having an icon or marker marking the northernmost point of the contiguous U.S., much like Key West, FL has the southernmost icon. The idea has come to fruition and is ready for pictures.

The northernmost marker is located at Young’s Bay Resort in the community of Angle Inlet, MN. Young’s Bay was chosen as it is where the main marina is located for visitors and residents who are staying on one of the island resorts or cabins amongst the islands of the NW Angle. It is also adjacent to the bar and restaurant of the Angle called Jerry’s is located where folks will stop in for a cold beer or a good burger.

Fishing is the main draw up at the Angle. Over a dozen resorts cater to visitors and provide a variety of accommodations from simply a cabin all the way up to a full service resort that provides bar, restaurant and guided fishing. Some anglers fish amongst the islands of MN. Others fish the Ontario side of the lake which is literally a long stone’s throw off the dock of many of our resorts. The Ontario side of the lake offers another 40 miles of world class fishing, delicious shore lunches, islands and beauty.

There is so much more to experience at the Angle than fishing however. The NW Angle has approximately 110 permanent residents. Some live on the mainland called Angle Inlet. Others live on islands. There is the only one room school in the state of MN that has grades K – 6. There is history in Ft. St. Charles, pictographs on rock walls and Massacre Island. There is nature, with a wide variety of birds and wildlife on display daily.

If you haven’t experienced the NW Angle, it’s hard to explain the feeling one gets at the Angle. It is a good feeling, one that reaches deep into your soul. It feels like it is a place where true relaxation can really take place.

If you plan a trip up to the northern most point of the contiguous United States, this is one adventure that will not disappoint. Check out this episode of CBS Sunday Morning about the NW Angle.

To learn more about Lake of the Woods, check out the Lake of the Woods Tourism website.

To find a guide, charter boat or lodging, check out our lodging page.