Hiking in the Chippewa National Forest
Hike the Lost Forty in the Chippewa National Forest, and you will experience over 250-year-old red and white pine trees and get an up close and personal view of this national forest. This off the beaten path location is in the Chippewa National Forest that is located approximately one hour NW of Grand Rapids. You can access the Lost Forty from both the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway (Hwy 46 N of Deer River) or you can also access from the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway (Hwy 38 N of Marcell). Both of these scenic byways are the perfect opportunity to take a scenic drive up the Chippewa National Forest. Along the route you will find other hiking trails as well. Discover more Hiking Trails in the Chippewa National Forest HERE.
In the late 1800’s 144 acres of red and white pines went untouched by loggers when a surveying error mapped the area as part of Coddington Lake, that has become known today as the Lost Forty. According to the US Forest Service, less than two percent of Minnesota’s forested land contains old growth timber. The Lost 40 pines are 300-400 years old, originating from when the pilgrims came to America. There is a one-mile, self-guided trail that winds its way through the towering pines of the Lost 40.
The red and white pine that are in the Lost Forty are approximately 22-48 inches in diameter. In other areas of the Chippewa National Forest, white pine trees are harvested for pulp (paper), lumber, wildlife, and aesthetics. These trees are harvested at about 80 to 150 years. Biologically, pine trees can live up to 500 years. Most of the aspen growing in the area is about 60 years old and is beginning to deteriorate. Aspen trees reach their biological old age at about 85 years. Old growth such as the Lost Forty are valuable for wildlife, including bald eagles, a number of hawks and woodpeckers, red squirrels, weasels and numerous other species.
Minnesota wildlife that you have the potential of sightings are eagles, hawks, owls, songbirds, squirrels, chipmunks, deer, raccoon, and the occasional skunk, or even porcupine. The Lost Forty is surrounded by many small lakes, ponds and rivers, which makes for the occasional flyover of geese, swans and loons. The iconic sound of a goose, swan, or loon is a symbol that you are in Minnesota’s Northwoods.
Because of the short hike, the Lost Forty is a great hiking area for all ages. This location is a great location to bring children of all ages. It is a great educational opportunity to teach in one of Minnesota scientific natural area. There are historic panels that explain the history of the Lost Forty, history of forestry in Minnesota, and educational information about Minnesota pine trees.
There is something very special about walking among the old growth forest to help regain perspective. It makes you enjoy the simple things like chirping of northern songbirds, the rustling of the past seasons leaves under foot, and the squeaking of the tree branches as the wind blows from above. This short hiking trail is a vacation bucket list for sure that helps you get a better perspective of being off the beaten path in Minnesota’s nature.
Because of the short hike, the Lost Forty is a great hiking area for all ages. This location is a great location to bring children of all ages. It is a great educational opportunity to teach in one of Minnesota scientific natural area. There are historic panels that explain the history of the Lost Forty, history of forestry in Minnesota, and educational information about Minnesota pine trees.
There is something very special about walking among the old growth forest to help regain perspective. It makes you enjoy the simple things like chirping of northern songbirds, the rustling of the past seasons leaves under foot, and the squeaking of the tree branches as the wind blows from above. This short hiking trail is a vacation bucket list for sure that helps you get a better perspective of being off the beaten path in Minnesota’s nature.
At the parking lot of the Lost Forty there are several picnic tables and a permanent restroom. This is a popular area to visit in the summertime. While this location is off the beaten path, there are several fun places to eat & drink, get gas and snacks, and places to shop in the area. Read more about the Lost Forty as recalled by the Chippewa National Forest resource guide HERE. Find more hiking trail information in the Grand Rapids, MN area HERE.
