Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Minnesota
Heartland Region
Birch Lake State Forest
Common Loon © stateparks.com
Campfire and Hotdogs © stateparks.com
Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
BIRCH LAKE STATE FOREST
BIRCH LAKE STATE FOREST
Birch Lake State Forest in Minnesota is a picturesque expanse of natural beauty, encompassing over 48,000 acres of forested land. Located in the heart of the state, this serene forest offers a diverse array of recreational activities, from hiking and biking on the well-maintained trails, to fishing and boating on the sparkling Birch Lake. Nature lovers will delight in the abundance of native flora and fauna, while camping enthusiasts can find solace in the rustic, secluded campsites scattered throughout the forest. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning vistas, Birch Lake State Forest provides a perfect escape from the bustling city life, allowing visitors to truly reconnect with nature.
History of the Area
Birch Lake State Forest is a state forest located in northern Minnesota, primarily in St. Louis County. It covers an area of about 12,000 acres and is known for its diverse range of natural features and recreational opportunities.

The history of Birch Lake State Forest is intertwined with the history of logging in northern Minnesota. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region experienced a booming logging industry, with vast pine forests being harvested to meet the growing demand for lumber. Birch Lake State Forest was initially part of the timberland owned and operated by lumber companies such as the Merritt Brothers Company and the Duluth, Mississippi, and Northern Railroad Company.

However, with the realization of the need for conservation and sustainable forestry practices, the management of these timberlands began to change. In the 1920s, the Minnesota Department of Conservation (now known as the Department of Natural Resources) started acquiring these lands to establish state forests and ensure their long-term protection.

Birch Lake State Forest was officially designated as a state forest in 1932. Over the years, the state forest has been managed for multiple uses, including timber production, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation. The forest has survived several large-scale fires, such as the Cobalt Fire in 1947 and the Pagami Creek Fire in 2011, which have shaped its landscape and ecology.

Birch Lake State Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides opportunities for activities like hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The forest comprises a mix of forest types, including pine, aspen, birch, and mixed hardwoods, which support diverse plant and animal species.

There has been a growing focus on preserving the ecological integrity of the forest and involving local communities in its management. Efforts have been made to promote sustainable forestry practices, enhance wildlife habitat, and expand recreational opportunities within the state forest.

Birch Lake State Forest continues to serve as a vital natural resource and recreational area, honoring its past while adapting to meet the needs of the present and future generations.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental



Trails
1. Birch Lake Loop: This is a moderate 5-mile loop trail that circles around the scenic Birch Lake, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest throughout.

2. Pine Ridge Trail: A challenging 8-mile trek through dense pine forests with several steep inclines and declines making it suitable for experienced hikers looking to test their endurance levels.

3. Lakeside Pathway: An easy, family-friendly 2-mile path along the edge of Birch Lake perfect for bird watching or enjoying a leisurely stroll amidst nature's beauty.

4. Forest Canopy Walkway: For those seeking an aerial view of this beautiful state forest, there's a half mile elevated walkway winding its way through towering trees providing panoramic vistas from above ground level.

5. Hidden Waterfalls Track: A moderately difficult hike spanning about four miles leading you towards hidden waterfalls within deep woods; requires some navigation skills due to less marked trails but rewards with mesmerizing waterfall sights at end points.

6. Wildflower Way: This gentle two-and-a-half mile trail takes visitors past fields filled with seasonal wildflowers during springtime creating picturesque landscapes ideal for photography enthusiasts.

7. Bear Creek Crossing-A rugged six: miles long backcountry track traversing Bear creek multiple times before reaching spectacular viewpoints overlooking vast expanses of untouched wilderness areas in State Forest region.

8. Eagle Peak Summit Hike: This strenuous seven miles round trip leads up to Eagle peak-the highest point in park-offering breathtaking panoramas over entire area including shimmering waterscapes below.

9. Snowy Owl Snowshoe Route: During winter months when snow blankets landscape transforming into white wonderland, his three-miles route offers unique opportunity exploring serene surroundings on snowshoes while spotting local wildlife like deer, quirrels etc.

10. Red Fox Run: A relatively flat five-kilometer-long running/hiking pathway meandering across diverse terrains such as marshlands, meadows and dense woods providing varied experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

11. Beaver Dam Trail: A 3-mile trail that takes you through wetland areas where beavers are known to inhabit; a great opportunity to observe these industrious creatures in their natural habitat.

12. Northern Lights Night Hike: This unique one mile long night hike offers chance witnessing mesmerizing Northern lights phenomenon during clear winter nights while traversing quiet forest paths under starlit skies.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
April 19 good park
park review stars; one to five grate park if you like good fishing
October 13 A nice campground on a great lake by donwon19
park review stars; one to five A nice, well forested campground on a great fishing and swimming lake. Nice trails.
write a review
Share On

Directions
Birch Lake State Forest is located in northeastern Minnesota, approximately 20 miles northwest of Ely. To reach the forest from Ely, follow MN-169 North for about 9 miles until you reach County Road 88/Grant McMahan Boulevard. Turn left onto CR-88 and continue on this road for approximately 10 miles.

After driving on CR-88, turn right onto Birch Lake Dam Road (also known as Sturgeon River Road) and proceed for about a mile until you see signs indicating the entrance to Birch Lake State Forest. Take a left at these signs and drive along the gravel road that leads into the forest.

Once inside Birch Lake State Forest, there are various recreational activities available such as hiking trails, fishing spots, camping areas with designated sites or backcountry options depending on your preference. The state forest offers beautiful scenery including dense forests filled with birch trees alongside pristine lakeshores - perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to explore or relax amidst tranquility.

To exit Birch Lake State Forest after your visit concludes simply retrace your steps by following Sturgeon River Road/Birch lake Dam Rd southbound towards County Highway 88 again before turning right onto it when reached; then just keep going straight ahead till reaching MN-169 South which will lead back toward Ely city center where other amenities can be found if needed.

state route ranger badge
Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

X