Leech Lake State Parks and Forests
The Leech Lake area is lush with vegetation and an explorer’s dream. Pack your hiking boots and camera and experience the beauty of the area at one of the many state or national parks and many trails.
SIGHTS TO SEE
Cedar Bog Trail
On the south shore of Leech Lake you’ll find this 12 miles stretch of trail through a natural cedar bog. Hike, bike or snowshoe this unique trail.
Chippewa National Forest
If you’re looking to see wildlife, you’ll want to plan a hike though the Chippewa National Forest. With over 78 miles of trails to explore you’re sure to find eagles, herons, deer, raccoon, possum, many birds and much more. Trails range from 1/2 a mile long to 68 miles. In the winter many of the trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Paul Bunyan and Heartland Trails (favorites for snowmobilers) intersect in the Chippewa National Forest.
Deep Portage Conservation Reserve
www.deep-portage.org
A learning experience for the whole family. With hiking trails, an interpretive center and educational programs, you’ll learn about the area’s environment, wildlife and unique qualities – then suit up for a hiking trip to discover them for yourself! Open year round.
Heartland Trail
An outdoor adventure! The Heartland Trail is key to any outdoor experience in the area. In the spring, summer and fall, hike or bike these trails to appreciate the scenery of lakes, foliage, wildlife, flowers and fall colors. Connect to numerous other trails, including trains in the Chippewa National Forest. Winter provides one of the best paved snowmobile trails in the state as well as opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Itasca State Park
Rich with history and adventure. Jump across the stones at the headwaters of the Mississippi, rent a canoe and visit the islands in Lake Itasca, learn our states history at Wegmann’s Cabin and the Natural History Museum, read the headstones at the Indian cemetery, marvel at the native flowers and get a bird’s eye view from the fire tower. You haven’t seen Minnesota until you’ve visited Itasca State Park!
OTHER TRAILS
County Rd. 50 Walking Trail: The perfect before breakfast or after dinner stroll. A quick 8 miles along the Shingobee River Valley.
Lake Erin Trail: 5 Miles around Lake Erin
Mi-Ge-Zi Trail: Paved 4 mile trail along Cass Lake in the Chippewa National Forest. No Motorized vehicles allowed.
North Country National Scenic Trail: Footpath through the Chippewa National Forest, part of the longest continuous trail in North America
Oak Park Trail: 12 miles on Leech Lake, along Steamboat Bay.
Shingobee Trail: 6 miles of trail for hunting and hiking along Shingobee River Valley. Cross-country skiing and sledding hills in the winter.
Soo Line Trail: Runs along abandoned railway. Connects to the Paul Bunyan State Trail
Stony Point Trail: 9 miles in the Chippewa National Forest, exclusively for hiking and biking.
Sugar Point Battle Monument: Sight of the last Indian battle, located on the east side of Leech Lake near Federal Dam.