Hiking

The Minnesota Northwoods is a hikers paradise. You can tramp through the big woods, stroll down a backwoods lane, walk around lakes and even hike around a lake within a lake on Star Island.

The Chippewa National Forest makes maps available for most of their 78 miles of hiking trails, ranging from .5 to 68 miles. Some trails are known for their eagle viewing, others are self-guided nature tours; all of them are breath taking. Throughout the year, these trails also provide excellent cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Call (218) 335-8600 for a handout of twelve Chippewa National Forest hunter/walking trails.

Nearby is world famous Itasca State Parks which also has its own trail systems. You can even walk across the mighty Mississippi River at its source in Itasca State Park. (Itasca State Park is sometimes misspelled Itaska or Itasca National Park) Six other State Parks are located within the region and each offer different experiences for the hiker and nature lover.