Located up the Arrowhead Trail in Hovland, Points Unknown is most well-known for its dog sledding experiences in the wintertime. Recently, they started offering unique adventures in the summertime, as well. Here are some of the Points Unknown Summer Adventures that you can enjoy during your next trip up the North Shore.

Guided Mindful Paddle Experiences

A mindful paddle is not about paddling the hardest, fastest, or furthest. It’s about going slow and being present to the experience. With Points Unknown, a Mindful Paddle and Hike takes you into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) for a 4-6 hour day trip. The trip doesn’t take you far- mostly focusing on a single lake, and that’s because going far isn’t the point. On a mindful paddle, you enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the BWCA without worrying about the distance traveled. You go slow and really enjoy the journey.

The tours are guided by Points Unknown Owner Linda Newman, an outdoors woman with decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge. Linda has spent years becoming familiar with this area of the BWCA, including knowledge of the plants and trees and wildlife in the area. During your experience she shares this knowledge to help you better understand the nature around you.

The tour is educational and relaxing while still allowing tourgoers to enjoy time in the BWCA. You can learn more about the Mindful Paddle and Hike experience on the Points Unknown website and the Exploring the North Shore website.

Mindful and Canicross Hiking Trips

A Mindful Hiking Trip is similar to a Mindful Paddle. The point is to enjoy the experience and not race to the destination. So, what is Canicross Hiking? Simply put, it’s a hiking experience with a dog. It could be your dog or one of the Points Unknown pups, but this is the hiking experience every dog lover craves.

Points Unknown offers different options based upon experience level and desired experience. If meditating on the rocks alongside a peaceful waterfall sounds like an activity meant for you, then this is the tour for you. Find more information on the Points Unknown website.

Customize Your Adventure Trip

A relaxing paddle in the BWCA doesn’t interest you? Don’t want to splash around a hidden waterfall? Contact Points Unknown and create a custom adventure that’s perfect for you and your group! Owner Linda Newman and guide Mary Ellen Ashcroft know the Northwoods better than most. Let them help you have the perfect experience in the beautiful Northwoods.

Puppy Snuggles Always Included

Whether you make a trip in the summer or winter, there is always one constant at Points Unknown: Puppy cuddles! Getting to spend time with Linda’s amazing pack of sled dogs is a part of every experience. Whether it be feeding, playing, or simply getting your puppy snuggles in. Always cap off an adventure with a little puppy time.

Learn More

Learn more about these adventures, and more, on the Points Unknown website. Exploring the North Shore has also documented a Mindful Paddle experience. And listen in on the Mindful Paddle podcast episode of Exploring the North Shore: