Long before the white man set eyes on the river, the abundance of fish in its waters and animals along its shores attracted the Chippewa Indians, who camped, farmed, fished and trapped along its banks. In the late 1800's came the lumber barons and the river carried their logs by the millions to the mills. The lumberjacks, who harvested the tall timber, were among the first permanent white settlers in the area. The park offers visitors a wide variety of recreational opportunities. During the spring and summer , camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, nature study and photography are popular activities.
Fall colors provide a beautiful picturesque view of the park.
In addition, hunters will find ample opportunities to pursue their sport. Winter offers opportunity for snowmobiling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing with miles of marked trails. Ice formations along Lake Superior and frozen waterfalls are a photographer's delight. Moose are occassionally seen wandering through the park, and from time to time, bald eagles are also spotted by visitors. Black bear, coyotes, otter, deer, fox, porcupine, beaver and mink are a few of the other wildlife which can be seen in the park.