If you love peaceful lakes, pine-scented trails, and wide open wilderness, you’ll love exploring Superior National Forest. Located in northern Minnesota, this wild and beautiful forest is full of quiet trails, scenic overlooks, and hidden gems.
Some of the best hikes in Superior National Forest lead to sparkling lakes, rocky ridges, and peaceful forest clearings. Whether you’re hiking for the first time or looking for a true backcountry adventure, there’s a trail here for you. Let’s take a look at what makes this place so special—and which hikes you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
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History of Superior National Forest
Before we dive into the best hikes in Superior National Forest, it’s worth knowing a little about how this incredible place came to be.
Geology and Formation
The landscape of Superior National Forest was shaped by ice and time. Glaciers carved deep valleys, left behind rocky ridges, and formed the thousands of lakes you see today. This is part of the ancient Canadian Shield—some of the oldest exposed rock in the world.
Over time, forests grew across the rocky terrain, filling the region with red pine, birch, and spruce. Today’s trails lead through a unique mix of forest, wetland, and exposed granite, thanks to that icy past.
Native American History
The land now called Superior National Forest is the ancestral home of the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people. For centuries, the Ojibwe lived here, fishing, hunting, and traveling across lakes and forest paths. Many of today’s hiking routes follow traditional travel corridors first used by Indigenous communities. Their deep relationship with the land continues today, especially near the Boundary Waters and tribal lands.
Visitors are encouraged to hike respectfully and honor the land’s long cultural history.
Modern Protection and Management
Superior National Forest was established in 1909 to protect timber, wildlife, and watersheds in northeastern Minnesota. It now covers over three million acres, including the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The U.S. Forest Service manages the forest for both recreation and conservation.
The goal is to keep it wild, healthy, and accessible for future generations. Because of this, many of the best hikes in Superior National Forest remain quiet, remote, and beautifully preserved.
Best Time to Visit Superior National Forest
Superior National Forest changes with the seasons, and each one brings something special to the trail. Whether you’re hiking through wildflowers or snow, it’s all about knowing what to expect—and planning accordingly.
Spring (April-May)
What’s Great:
Snow begins to melt, creeks and waterfalls swell, and the forest slowly comes back to life. By May, many low-elevation trails are hikeable, and you’ll likely have them all to yourself.
What’s Not So Great:
Mud, bugs, and unpredictable weather can make early spring hiking tricky.
Some roads may still be closed due to snow or flooding.
Summer (June-August)
What’s Great:
Summer is peak season for a reason. The days are long, the lakes are warm, and the trails are wide open. This is when you can explore the full range of the best hikes in Superior National Forest, from forest loops to ridge climbs.
What’s Not So Great:
Mosquitoes and black flies can be relentless—bug spray is a must.
Campgrounds and popular trailheads can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Fall (September-November)
What’s Great:
Fall in the Northwoods is absolutely stunning.
Aspens and maples light up the forest with gold and red, and the crisp air makes hiking feel amazing.
Trails are quieter, bugs are gone, and the views are unbeatable.
What’s Not So Great:
Weather turns fast. Be ready for cold nights and early snow flurries by mid-October. Some services and roads may close for the season.
Winter (November-March)
What’s Great:
If you love solitude and snow, winter hiking or snowshoeing here is magical.
The forest feels still and peaceful, and the frozen lakes and trees are breathtaking.
What’s Not So Great:
Deep snow, icy trails, and limited access make this a season for experienced winter hikers only.
Always check conditions and bring proper gear.
When I Would Go
If I had to pick one time to explore the best hikes in Superior National Forest, it would be early October.
The fall colors are absolutely breathtaking, the air is cool and crisp, and the trails are quiet. It’s the perfect time to hike without bugs or crowds, and the golden light makes every photo look incredible.
Just pack warm layers and keep an eye on the weather, autumn in the Northwoods moves fast!
Where to Stay in Superior National Forest
Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a remote campsite, or a base in town, Superior National Forest has great options. Here’s how to choose the right place to stay for your adventure.
Nearby Towns
If you prefer a warm shower and easy access to restaurants or stores, these towns make great basecamps:
- Ely, Minnesota: A classic gateway town to the Boundary Waters and the heart of the Superior National Forest.
You’ll find outfitters, lodges, restaurants, and plenty of hiking nearby. - Grand Marais: Nestled along Lake Superior, it’s artsy, scenic, and full of charm.
A great spot if you want to pair forest hikes with lakeside views and local coffee shops. - Tofte and Lutsen: Small North Shore towns close to the Superior Hiking Trail and inland forest trails.
Lutsen is also home to a ski resort if you’re visiting in winter.
These towns are perfect if you’re doing day hikes and want to relax in comfort each night.
Camping in Superior National Forest
Camping is one of the best ways to experience the quiet and beauty of the forest.
There are plenty of options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites.
- Developed Campgrounds: Try Fall Lake Campground near Ely or Sawbill Lake Campground near Tofte. These offer picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, plus access to hiking and paddling.
- Backcountry and Dispersed Camping:
Superior National Forest allows dispersed camping in most areas. Just find a spot 200 feet from water and trails, and leave no trace. Many of the best hikes in Superior National Forest connect to scenic backcountry sites near lakes and rivers.
Be sure to check fire restrictions, permit rules, and seasonal closures before you go.
Cabins and Lodges in Superior National Forest
Want something between a tent and a hotel? Cabins are everywhere up north—and they’re a great way to stay close to nature with a bit of comfort.
- Forest Service Cabins: A few rustic rental cabins are available through Recreation.gov. They’re basic but scenic and peaceful.
- Private Cabins: Look for options near Ely, Gunflint Trail, or the North Shore. Many offer lake access, saunas, and great stargazing.
Airbnb and local outfitters often list them, especially in shoulder seasons when prices drop.
Pro-Tip
If you’re visiting in summer or during peak fall color season, book your campsite or cabin as early as you can.
Popular spots in Superior National Forest fill up fast—especially around Ely and along the North Shore.
For camping, try midweek for better site availability and quieter trails.
And don’t forget: some backcountry areas require permits, even for overnight hiking or paddling trips.
Things to Do in Superior National Forest
Hiking might be the highlight, but there’s so much more to explore in Superior National Forest.
From peaceful paddling routes to incredible stargazing, this wild northern landscape is full of ways to connect with nature.
Whether you’re out for the weekend or spending a whole season up north, you’ll find plenty to do between trailheads.
Canoeing and Kayaking
This is canoe country, plain and simple. The forest is filled with lakes, rivers, and calm water perfect for paddling. Rent a canoe in Ely or along the Gunflint Trail and explore quiet coves, rocky shorelines, and hidden portages.
Many lakes connect to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness—just be sure to get a permit if you cross into it.
Fishing
With thousands of lakes and rivers, Superior National Forest is a fishing paradise.
Cast a line for walleye, lake trout, northern pike, or smallmouth bass.
Many trail-access lakes offer peaceful, remote fishing spots you’ll likely have to yourself.
Just make sure you have a Minnesota fishing license and follow local regs.
Wildlife Watching
This forest is home to moose, black bears, loons, eagles, otters, and even wolves.
Keep your eyes open at dawn and dusk, especially near water.
Bring binoculars for spotting birds and be respectful—give animals space and never feed them. Hearing a loon call across a lake is a Northwoods experience you’ll never forget.
Swimming or Paddle boarding
On a hot summer day, nothing beats jumping into a clear Northwoods lake.
Some lakes near campgrounds and day-use areas are perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.
The water is cold, but super refreshing! Try Echo Lake, Bearskin Lake, or Lake Jeanette.
Scenic Drive
Want to see the forest without strapping on your boots? Drive the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway or Superior National Forest Scenic Byway for beautiful views, pullouts, and short nature trails.
Great for photo stops, picnics, or days when your legs need a break.
Stargazing and Northern Lights
There’s very little light pollution here, which means jaw-dropping night skies.
On a clear night, you’ll see more stars than you thought possible—and maybe even the Milky Way.
If you’re lucky (and up late), you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, especially in fall and winter.
Best Hikes in Superior National Forest
After paddling a quiet lake or stargazing under the pines, there’s nothing like hitting the trail to fully experience this place.
From rugged ridgelines to peaceful forest loops, the best hikes in Superior National Forest showcase everything that makes the Northwoods special.
Let’s take a look at a few trails you won’t want to miss.
Bass Lake Trail
Distance: 5.6-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: ~500 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Bass Lake Trail is a perfect all-around hike that gives you a taste of everything Superior National Forest has to offer. The loop takes you through mature forest, over rocky ridgelines, and along the peaceful shoreline of Bass Lake.
You’ll pass by dramatic cliffs formed by an old rock slide, plus quiet bays that are great for a lunch stop. There’s a short side trail to a scenic overlook—highly recommended for a photo break.
It’s especially stunning in the fall, when the maples and birch trees glow with color.
Why It’s One of the Best:
- Great mix of forest, lakes, and views
- Not too difficult but still adventurous
- Amazing colors in fall and good wildlife sightings
Kekekabic Trail (East Section)
Distance: Varies (39 miles total—day hikes or overnight sections possible)
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation Gain: Varies
Trail Type: Point to point
The Kekekabic Trail is for those craving solitude and serious wilderness.
It stretches across some of the wildest country in the state, connecting the edge of Ely to Snowbank Lake and deep into the Boundary Waters. Many hikers just do an out-and-back from the Snowbank Lake Trailhead, going 3–6 miles in for a day trip.
Expect rocky terrain, lakeside campsites, and almost no one else on the trail.
This is a true off-the-grid experience—perfect for disconnecting and soaking up the silence of the forest.
Why It’s One of the Best:
- Deep wilderness with real solitude
- Remote lakes, boulder fields, and dense forest
- Ideal for experienced hikers or backpackers
Mount Baldy Trail
- Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: ~400 feet
- Trail Type: Out and back
Trail Overview:
Mount Baldy is a short climb with a big payoff.
The trail winds gently uphill through birch and pine forest, with rocky outcrops offering views along the way.
At the summit, you’ll find exposed granite with sweeping views of nearby lakes, ridgelines, and endless forest.
It’s a great spot for a picnic or sunrise hike, and you can often find blueberries lining the trail in late summer.
While not overly difficult, the rocky sections can be slippery when wet—good shoes are a must.
Why It’s One of the Best:
- Quick access to panoramic views
- Excellent photo and picnic spot
- Great bang-for-your-buck hike near Ely
Norberg Lake Trail
Distance: 2-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Trail Type: Loop
Norberg Lake Trail is a quiet, easy loop that’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a peaceful walk. The trail winds gently through forest and around the lake, with boardwalks over wet areas and benches for resting.
You’ll likely hear loons or spot waterfowl on the lake, especially in the morning.
It’s a great trail for birdwatching, photography, or just stretching your legs at a slower pace.
Why It’s One of the Best:
- Short, scenic, and super peaceful
- Excellent for kids or casual hikers
- Great for early morning or evening nature walks
Eagle Mountain Trail
Distance: 7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
Trail Type: Out and back
Eagle Mountain is the highest point in Minnesota, and hiking to the summit is a must-do for many visitors. The trail winds past Whale Lake, then climbs steadily through forest and up rocky ledges to the summit.
The views from the top stretch over endless forest, lakes, and ridgelines—and they’re especially dramatic in fall. The terrain is rugged in places, with some rocks and roots, but the elevation gain is steady rather than steep.
Be sure to sign the summit register and bring your camera!
Why It’s One of the Best:
- Iconic summit hike with sweeping views
- Great mix of forest, lake, and ridge trail
- Bucket-list-worthy and surprisingly quiet
Final Thoughts
The best hikes in Superior National Forest offer more than just miles, they offer moments. Quiet lakes at sunrise. Rustling birch leaves overhead. Granite ledges with views that stretch forever.
Whether you’re chasing a summit, wandering a forest loop, or just sitting beside a still lake, this place has a way of grounding you.
No matter your hiking style—easy nature walks or multi-day treks—you’ll find a trail here that feels just right.
So pack your boots, grab your map, and go see what the Northwoods have waiting for you.
Superior is wild, quiet, and unforgettable, and you don’t have to go far to feel far away.
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
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