2013 Map of Boulder Lake Reservoir

About this map

Boulder Lake Reservoir and Island Lake Reservoir dominate the landscape in this portion of Saint Louis County, showing the extensive water management infrastructure north of Duluth. The intricate shoreline of the reservoirs is defined by numerous points and islands, such as Bear Island and Tomahawk Point, reflecting the transformation of the natural hydrology where the Us-Kab-Wan-Ka River and Cloquet River meet. The area is interlaced with a network of local roads including Boulder Dam Rd and Rice Lake Rd, which provide access to seasonal homes and recreational sites along the water's edge. Smaller, natural water bodies like Twin Lakes and Nevens Lake remain in the northern reaches, offering a contrast to the larger man-made reservoirs. The map captures the balance between natural river systems and the engineering required to maintain these large water storage basins in the early 21st century.