The best walks and hikes in Beltrami County
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Hikes in Beltrami County explore the landscapes of Minnesota's Northwoods. The region is characterized by its numerous lakes, expansive state and national forests, and large peat bogs. The terrain consists mainly of rolling hills and forested paths, with trails winding along lakeshores and through diverse woodland habitats.
Best hiking trails in Beltrami County
- The most popular hiking route is Migizi Trail Loop — Chippewa National Forest, a 14.0 mile (22.6 km) trail that takes about 5 hours 40 minutes to complete. This long-distance route follows paths through the Chippewa National Forest.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Star Island Hiking Loop — Chippewa National Forest, a moderate 5.8 mile (9.4 km) path. This route circles the interior of an island within Cass Lake.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Norway Beach Nature Trail Loop & Strawberry Lake — Chippewa National Forest, a 3.3 mile (5.3 km) trail leading through pine forest, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking in Beltrami County is defined by lakeside trails, extensive forests, and unique bog ecosystems. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, from short nature walks to longer forest treks.
- The routes in Beltrami County are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars from a small number of reviews. More than 9 hikers have used komoot to explore Beltrami County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
2
hikers
25.9km
06:37
80m
80m
Hike the 16.1-mile Lake Bemidji Loop, a difficult route around the lake, featuring the Paul Bunyan State Trail and iconic statues.
1.49km
00:23
0m
10m
Explore the unique bog ecosystem on this easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) boardwalk trail in Lake Bemidji State Park, perfect for families.
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5.26km
01:20
10m
10m
The Norway Beach Nature Trail offers an easy hiking experience through the scenic Chippewa National Forest. You will wander along a gentle path, surrounded by a mix of tall red and white pines, maples, birches, and aspens. The terrain is mildly rolling, providing a pleasant walk, especially when autumn colors are vibrant. This route covers 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 35 feet (11 metres), making it an accessible option for many. Expect to complete this hike in about 1 hour and 19 minutes, enjoying views of Cass Lake and its sandy beaches along the way.
The Norway Beach Recreation Area is a popular spot, particularly during the summer months, so plan your visit with parking in mind. The trail is generally accessible, and the nearby Visitor Center offers additional facilities and information. While no specific permits or fees are mentioned for hiking this route, arriving earlier in the day might help you secure a parking spot during peak season. This easy trail is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, making it a great choice for a relaxed outing.
As you explore the area, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as frogs and squirrels. A notable feature along the route is the historic Norway Beach Visitor Center, a masterpiece built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This center provides valuable insights into the region's natural and cultural heritage, adding a historical dimension to your outdoor adventure. The trail's setting within the Chippewa National Forest highlights the diverse ecosystems of northern Minnesota.
22.6km
05:42
30m
40m
Tackle the 14.0-mile Migizi Trail, a difficult hike with 113 feet of elevation gain, offering scenic views of Pike Bay and Cass Lake.
8.72km
02:13
30m
30m
The Webster Lake Hunter Walking Trail is a moderate 5.4-mile hike through forested landscapes in Chippewa National Forest.
9.40km
02:23
20m
20m
Hike the moderate 5.8-mile Star Island Trail Loop, gaining 80 feet in 2h 23m, accessible only by boat or canoe.
2
hikers
3.11km
00:48
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has developed a Hiking Club program that features a trail in 68 state parks and recreational areas (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/clubs.html). Sometimes the trailhead for these hikes can be tricky to find, so here is the trailhead for the Lake Bemidji State Park Hiking Club trail. There is a marker with a password somewhere along the length of the trail, but I am not going to reveal that!
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Webster Lake Campground is open Memorial Day through mid-October, and has a picnic area that is open to the public. More information is available at the National Forest Service website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chippewa/recarea/?recid=26626
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Minnesota's hunter walking trails are open to hunters and are good places to find grouse and woodcock. The trails around Webster Lake wind through a forest of mostly balsam fir. Of all the hunter walking trails in Minnesota, a 2020 study found that Webster Lake had the highest density and variety of bird species, especially ruffed grouse. If parking is not available at the trailhead visitors can park at the campground up the road. Casual hikers should wear orange to have visibility for hunters.
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Strawberry Lake is a small glacial lake nestled between Cass Lake and Pike Bay. The Migizi Trail between Pike Lake and Norway Beach provides scenic lakeside access.
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The Norway Beach Interpretive Trail is an easy path that takes hikers and campground visitors on a tour of Norway Beach's beautiful pines and by the Visitor Center.
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The Norway Beach Visitor Center is open in the summer and offers weekly ranger programs at 10am and 2pm to explore Norway Beach's native flora and fauna. Visitors can read the "story in stone" by the building's fireplace to learn about its history.
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Migizi is the Ojibwe word for bald eagle. Indeed, there are multiple bald eagle nests along the eastern shore of Pike Bay. Ojibwe, Ojibwa, or Chippewa are all words for the group of indigenous people in Northern Minnesota.
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Both Pike Bay and Cass Lake are known for being one of the best fishing places in Minnesota. Walleye, northern pike, and perch populations are most notable. Pike Bay is named not for its pike population, but rather for commander Zebulon Montgomery Pike who took the region at the behest of the U.S. War Department in 1806. Cass Lake, once named Red Cedar Lake, is similarly named after General Cass.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Beltrami County?
Yes, the area offers several accessible trails perfect for families. The Diamond Point Beach loop from Bemidji is a short, pleasant walk along the lake. For a unique experience, the Bog Walk at Lake Bemidji State Park features a boardwalk trail that is great for all ages to learn about the local ecosystem.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in Beltrami County are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Parks like Three Island Lake County Park are known to be great spots for dogs. However, be aware that dogs are often not permitted on groomed ski trails in the winter, such as those at Movil Maze, so it's always best to check local regulations before you go.
What are some popular parks for hiking in the area?
Beltrami County is home to several highly regarded parks for hiking.
Lake Bemidji State Park is a local favorite, offering diverse trails including a bog walk and paths with lake views.
Movil Maze Recreation Area is another excellent choice, known for its well-maintained trail system through the forest.
For a quieter experience with scenic river views, consider Three Island Lake County Park.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails in Beltrami County?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging, full-day hike, the Migizi Trail Loop — Chippewa National Forest is an excellent option. This 14-mile (22.6 km) route takes you through the expansive forest. Additionally, a 61-mile segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the county, offering extended backpacking opportunities.
What is the Big Bog Boardwalk trail like?
The Big Bog Boardwalk is a unique and accessible trail located in the Big Bog State Recreation Area. It's a mile-long elevated walkway that allows you to hike over the largest peat bog in the lower 48 states. This trail provides a rare opportunity to see unique plant life, like carnivorous pitcher plants and rare orchids, without disturbing the fragile ecosystem.
Are there options for winter hiking?
Winter hiking and snowshoeing are popular activities in Beltrami County. Many trails in places like Lake Bemidji State Park and Beltrami Island State Forest remain accessible. The park provides specific winter trail maps showing routes for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You can find a winter map for Lake Bemidji State Park here.
What are the 'Hunter Walking Trails'?
Hunter Walking Trails (HWTs) are a network of trails primarily managed for hunting access, but they are also great for hiking, especially if you're looking for quieter, more rugged paths. The Webster Lake Hunter Walking Trail Loop is a good example, offering a peaceful hike through the forest.
Are there any hiking trails on islands?
Yes, for a truly unique hike, you can explore Star Island, located in the middle of Cass Lake. The Star Island Hiking Loop circles the island's interior, which even contains its own lake, Lake Windigo. Reaching the island requires a boat.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails?
The terrain in Beltrami County is typical of Minnesota's Northwoods. Most trails feature rolling hills, sandy ridges, and forested paths. You'll find yourself walking alongside pristine lakeshores, through dense pine and hardwood forests, and across unique bog ecosystems on boardwalks. The trails are generally not rocky or mountainous.
Are there any short, scenic nature trails?
Absolutely. The Norway Beach Nature Trail Loop is a perfect choice. It's a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) walk through a beautiful pine forest near the shores of Cass Lake and is a great way to experience the local scenery in about an hour and a half.
Do I need to pay to hike in Beltrami County?
Access to state parks like Lake Bemidji State Park and state recreation areas like the Big Bog requires a vehicle permit, which you can purchase for a day or a full year. However, hiking in state forests, such as Beltrami Island State Forest and Chippewa National Forest, is generally free, as are county parks like Movil Maze.
Are there any waterfalls to see on hikes in this area?
Beltrami County is characterized by its lakes, forests, and bogs rather than significant changes in elevation, so prominent waterfalls are not a feature of the landscape. Hikes here focus more on the serene beauty of the woodlands and lakeshores. You can see some small rapids at Three Island Lake County Park.
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