Greenwood Lake is a 2,042-acre deep, oligotrophic lake located in Cook County, Minnesota, within Superior National Forest just south of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Situated 19 miles northeast of Grand Marais along the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12), this classic Canadian Shield lake offers paddlers a remote wilderness experience with excellent access and diverse paddling opportunities.

**Access and Facilities** The lake features a concrete boat ramp with a dock and restroom facilities at the public access, with parking for approximately six vehicles with trailers. The access is reached by traveling 16 miles northeast on the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais, then turning right onto Forest Road 309 (Greenwood Lake Road) for 8 miles, followed by a final 0.3-mile turn to the landing. Several primitive Forest Service campgrounds are located on islands within the lake.

**Character and Paddling Environment** With 23 miles of shoreline, maximum depths reaching 112 feet, and exceptional water clarity averaging nearly 16 feet, Greenwood Lake provides a true wilderness paddling experience. The lake features multiple deep rocky basins and numerous rocky shoals that require careful navigation. Despite its size, development is minimal with only about 55 homesites around the shoreline, maintaining a remote, pristine atmosphere. The relatively undeveloped watershed consists primarily of forest and wetlands.

**Wildlife and Scenery** Paddlers can expect to see moose, bald eagles, loons, and various waterfowl. The clear waters support a diverse fish community including self-sustaining populations of lake trout, cisco, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and brook trout. The surrounding Canadian Shield landscape features rocky outcrops, dense coniferous forests, and scenic island campsites perfect for wilderness camping and extended paddling adventures.