Bordering on Canada to the north and marking the western most port in the Great Lakes, Minnesota became the 32nd U.S. State in 1858. Considered the Upper Midwest, the area also is called the five state area from a Minnesota perspective: Wisconsin, Iowa, North and South Dakota and Minnesota.

The Leech Lake area is a pleasant drive of less than four hours from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St.Paul, the final half of it through the magnificent evergreen northwoods. From Duluth, the trip takes only about two hours.

The area is dotted with Minnesota resorts and things to do. Leech Lake itself is 112,000 acres. Within 30 miles, you'll find another 125 lakes welcoming visitors.