Hike along a national scenic trail

The North Country National Scenic Trail is one of 11 National Scenic Trails in the U.S. and the only one in Minnesota.

The North Country Trail runs 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. Being open to foot traffic only, Minnesota’s footpaths hold unimpeded travel for hikers, berry pickers, hunters, geocachers, cross country skiers and snowshoers. Short day hikes or overnight hikes are possible.

Maps, events and suggested hikes are available at www.northcountrytrail.org

Anyone walking this trail is in for a treat as it meanders through forested hills and valleys interspersed with rivers, lakes, and numerous wetlands. Later in the summer, you can be rewarded by finding wild strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries along the trail.

Do you enjoy hiking and are you looking for a group to hike with on a regular basis? Join the North Country Trail hiking groups Laurentian Lakes and Itasca Moraine Chapters. The area’s segments of the North Country Trail are maintained by these two chapters.

For information regarding the Laurentian Lakes Chapter, email llc@northcountrytrail.org.

For more information on the Itasca Moraine Chapter, contact Eric Haugland by email at itm@northcountrytrail.org.

At most locations, there is a kiosk or signboard with information about the trail. Hiking distances to the nearest kiosk are also provided.

A “Guide to Hiking the North Country Trail in Minnesota” guidebook is available in bookstores in Park Rapids, Itasca State Park, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and online.