Anyone who’s ever been to Minnesota can agree that it is absolutely beautiful. Geological wonders pepper every region of the state, from the magnetic rock up north to the giant boulders in the southwest to the oldest rocks on Earth in south-central Minnesota. But aside from geological wonders, Minnesota also has geographic wonders. In fact, northern Minnesota is home to a geographic wonder that has raised questions for many. It’s an exclave known as the Northwest Angle, and it’s one of the only places of its kind in the United States. Read on below to learn more about this strange spot.
The Northwest Angle is a small section of land north of Lake of the Woods. It is the northernmost point of the Lower 48. That alone makes it an interesting geographic point. But there’s something else that is strange about this spot: it is not connected to the rest of Minnesota.
The Illusional Ministry/Wikipedia
The Northwest Angle is a partial exclave. That is, it is a part of a country that can only be entered by traveling through another country. It’s separated from the rest of Minnesota - and the U.S. - by Lake of the Woods. This is due to an old mapping error dating back to the 1790s. An explorer believed Lake of the Woods was oval-shaped, which informed how the border was drawn.
yadem.hayseed/Flickr
In reality, Lake of the Woods is a large, odd-shaped lake dotted with many islands. It’s a popular fishing spot for Minnesotans and Canadians alike. And it’s also the only way to reach the Northwest Angle without crossing into Canada.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Of course, boat crossings are not always possible. For one thing, the lake freezes in the winter. For another, it’s not always practical to travel by boat. Luckily, there’s another way to reach the Angle: by road. Those who would like to visit by car will need their passports, because you’ll have to travel on Canadian roads to get there.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Entering and leaving requires a stop at Jim’s Corner, a famous spot along the way for Northwest Angle travelers. Here, you’ll be required to check in virtually with customs and immigration. You’ll be asked a few questions about who you are and why you’re traveling, and then you’ll be on your way.
Al/Flickr
The Northwest Angle is a geographic curiosity that you can only find in Minnesota. Not only is it the northernmost point of the Lower 48. It’s also one of the only exclaves in the nation!
Lorie Shaull/Flickr
Have you ever heard of the Northwest Angle? What other unique spots in Minnesota – geographic, geologic, or otherwise – do you know of? Let us know in the comments, or by filling out our nomination form.
The Illusional Ministry/Wikipedia
yadem.hayseed/Flickr
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Al/Flickr
Lorie Shaull/Flickr
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Address: Angle Inlet, MN 56711, USA
