The Chippewa National Forest offers nine canoe routes, ranging from the mighty Mississippi and the unpredictable Leech Lake to the slow moving Shingobee River and other small creeks. These canoe routes offer excellent opportunities to view bald eagles, loons, and a variety of northern Minnesota wildlife. Walleye, northern pike, and panfishing is good along most of the routes. Extreme caution should be used in crossing the large and unpredictable Winnibigoshish, Leech, and Cass Lakes.
Primitive campsites are available along most of the rivers.
Some sites have wilderness latrines and tent pads. Water must be treated for drinking. Explore Minnesota's northwoods on the waters of the Chippewa National Forest.