Birch House · Mooningwanekaaning
Traditional Canoes of Lake Superior
Discover the remarkable history, craftsmanship, and ingenuity of the traditional watercraft that connected communities across the Great Lakes for generations.
Historic Grants Point, Madeline Island
Across from Long Island · Lake Superior shoreline
The Experience
Your experience takes place on the shores of Lake Superior at historic Grants Point, across from Long Island, where the landscape itself helps tell the story of travel and life on the water.
Gather on the beach to explore two extraordinary watercraft: a 120-year-old birch bark canoe and a 17-foot dugout canoe carved from a single old-growth white pine.
Learn about the natural materials, tools, and skills involved in creating these vessels, and discover how different canoe designs were adapted to the waterways and needs of the people who used them.
Examine the details of their construction, ask questions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and knowledge embodied in each canoe.
When lake conditions permit, guests have the opportunity to experience both of these remarkable watercraft firsthand.
Accompanied by an experienced guide in each canoe, participants enjoy short paddling excursions close to shore, discovering how the vessels move through the water and experiencing the distinctive qualities of birch bark and dugout construction.
Although the paddles are intentionally brief, they offer something truly special: the rare opportunity to travel on Lake Superior in two very different traditional watercraft, experiencing their craftsmanship not simply as objects of history, but as working vessels on the water.
Whether you're drawn to the history of the Great Lakes, the ingenuity of traditional craftsmanship, or the simple pleasure of being on the water, this is an experience unlike any other.
Your Experience Includes
- Introduction to traditional Great Lakes watercraft and their history
- Close examination of a 120-year-old birch bark canoe and a 17-foot white pine dugout canoe
- Discussion of materials, construction methods, and craftsmanship
- Opportunity for guided paddling excursions in both canoes, when water conditions permit
- An experienced guide accompanying participants in each canoe
- Time for questions, photographs, and conversation
Weather & Safety
On-water activities are subject to weather, lake conditions, and guide assessment. Participants may take turns in the canoes depending on group size and vessel capacity. Required safety equipment is provided. If paddling conditions are unsuitable, the experience may be limited to shore-based activities.
Meeting Location — Historic Grants Point
Our Traditional Canoes of Lake Superior experience takes place at historic Grants Point, across from Long Island on Madeline Island.
Please note: This experience does not take place at Birch House.
Your host will meet you at the designated gathering area at Grants Point.
Please plan to arrive 5–10 minutes before your scheduled experience.
Get Directions to Grants Point
Preparing for Your Visit
Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable outdoor footwear suitable for shoreline conditions. Bring an extra layer or rain jacket when appropriate.
Personal flotation devices will be provided. All paddling activities are subject to weather and water conditions.
If you are traveling from the mainland, please check current ferry or seasonal transportation arrangements and allow sufficient travel time.
Questions or Running Late?
If you have difficulty finding Grants Point or expect to arrive late, please contact Kaesha Baloch at 651-280-7063.
Email: contact@visitbirchhouse.com
Before Your Visit
Advance reservations are required. Your experience is exclusive to your booking party of 2–7 guests.
Contact us before booking to discuss beach access or accommodation needs.
A waiver is required at the time of booking. Contact us with questions about participation.
Read all visitor information and cancellation policies →
Hosted by Birch House. Guest educator-led programs are separately arranged, subject to agreement and availability. Discuss a guest-led or community-led visit →
Reservations & Guest Information
Reservations are paid in full at booking. Cancellations made at least seven days before your experience are eligible for a full refund. Please review our complete cancellation policy and participation guidelines before booking.
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
Seven or more calendar days before: full refund. Three to six days before: 50% refund. Less than three days before: no refund. One no-fee reschedule is available with at least 72 hours’ notice, subject to availability and completion within twelve months. If Birch House cancels for safety or weather, choose a full refund or rescheduling. Read the complete cancellation policy and rescheduling and weather terms.
Participation & Safety
Lake Superior conditions and cold-water exposure can affect participation. Wear a properly fitted personal flotation device, follow guide instructions, and respect safety-related changes or cancellation. Any required individual participant or guardian agreement will be provided separately through an approved process. These guidelines are not a liability release. Review participation and safety guidelines.
Children are welcome when accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian. Participation in certain activities may depend on age, conditions, and available safety equipment.
Bringing a Larger Group?
For eight or more guests, begin with a conversation about a private group visit, educational gathering or community retreat.
Plan a Group Visit