If you’re looking for adventure in Minnesota, head up north to the wilderness sanctuary that is MN’s largest state forest. Escape into the 878,040 acres of wild terrain surrounding the Big Fork State Water Trail, and experience the beauty of orchids, pines, and peatlands.
Pine Island State Forest is the largest of all 58 state forests in MN, and the land is mostly undeveloped.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
There are 168 miles of hiking trails in this massive recreation area, and day use areas near Red Lake, Big Falls, and all along the Big Fork River.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
You can get caught up in the endless views that come from such a wide variety of landscapes.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
From river shores to the eastern side of Upper Red Lake, there’s no shortage of water recreation opportunities.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Experience the Big Fork River and find spots to canoe, fish, and boat all within the forest boundary.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
And don’t forget the SNA’s and nearby Big Bog State Recreation Area - which offers one-of-a-kind hikes.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
In the forest along with stunning nature views you can catch glimpses of moose, black bears and white-tailed deer of course, along with countless birds and other wildlife.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
This forest is definitely unique, and you’ll love exploring an area different than many others in MN, with pines, shrub swamps, peatlands, and bogs that are much more beautiful than they sound!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
You can also catch some beautiful fall colors!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
In the winter you can also ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile through the miles and miles of land.
Flickr/Justin Meissen
And if you still aren’t convinced, don’t forget about all the ATV trails in this massive forest waiting to be used! If you don’t want to hike Pine Island, you can certainly drive it!
Flickr/Justin Meissen
For another epic forest experience like this one, head to the Lost 40, where some of MN’s oldest and most beautiful trees were preserved through the logging years due to a mapping error!
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Flickr/Justin Meissen
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