People ask us, “Why the moose?”, but the question should really be, “Why not a moose?” The moose has been the heart of our iconic logo for decades. These creatures represent the hardiness and strength of everyone and everything that lives in the Northland. Moose are an emblem of resilience and elegance that we strive to follow with every pack we create. We are proud of our logo and what it stands for, but what really makes moose such incredible creatures? Where can you spot one in Minnesota yourself? Other than our packs, of course. Read more to find out!

Moose (Alces alces) is Minnesota’s largest wild animal, commonly weighing in at 800 pounds or more. Minnesota is one of the few states where you can spot them, and every once in a while, you can see one in Duluth. If you are keen on spotting one, the Northland is the place to be.

Cook County, located in Northeast, Minnesota, is well known for its moose population. The Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway travels through miles of wetlands, where moose are known to inhabit. The Gunflint Trail is a 57-mile stretch of paved road that starts in Grand Marais, going through the Superior National Forest and ending in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). If you plan to spend time canoeing or to hike through the BWCAW, your chance to spot a moose is higher. But even driving the Gunflint gives you an incredible opportunity to get into the wilderness and hopefully experience the wonder of spotting a moose in the wild.

Unfortunately in the past, the Minnesota moose population had been declining. On the bright side, it was reported as stable for the 8th consecutive year by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) in their 2019 Aerial Moose Survey. Overall, the conservation status of moose in the United States is listed as a lesser concern with an increasing population. Factors that have led to a low population in Minnesota include parasites, predation, and heat stress from extended warm periods. The MN DNR conducts surveys every year to find out what we can do to support the local moose population and are actively working towards keeping moose in Minnesota.

If you set out to see one of these beauties for yourself, like any wildlife, always practice extreme caution when around moose. Never approach a baby moose (calf) as this is a danger for everyone involved. Mama moose (cows) are very protective of their offspring and will not hesitate to charge in order to protect their babies. In general, any moose will charge if they feel threatened, so keep your distance and be smart!

For more information about the moose population in Minnesota and conservation efforts to keep them in MN, visit the Minnesota DNR website.

Rep the moose! Shop any of our Duluth Pack manufactured items that display this regal creature on our logo. Our leather moose is also a fun way to show off your pride in this amazing northern symbol.