North Country Trail: Shingobee Recreation Area Loop

This loop is approximately 9.8 kilometers (6.1 miles) long and generally takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail features rolling hills within the Shingobee River Valley, winding through mixed aspen, birch, and pine woods. You'll pass by two small lakes and the Shingobee River, with scenic overlooks offering expansive valley views. While generally well-maintained, some sections may be wet during spring.

While the trails are very well maintained, they do include relatively steep hills, making it a moderate challenge. Beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should find it manageable, but be prepared for inclines.

Along the loop, you'll encounter several points of interest. These include the North Country Trail – CR-50 Trailhead, the picturesque Anoway Lake Bridge, the Henry Jennings Crockett Memorial, and the serene Recreation Lake. There's also the Shingobee Campsite if you're looking for a break.

The trail offers diverse experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for observing wildlife, wildflowers, morel mushrooms, and berries. However, be aware that sections may be wet in spring. The area is also popular for cross-country skiing in winter, with a warming chalet available.

You can typically find parking at the North Country Trail – CR-50 Trailhead, which serves as a convenient starting point for the loop.

For general day hiking in the Shingobee Recreation Area, permits are typically not required, and there are no entrance fees. However, if you plan on primitive or dispersed camping, it's always best to check the latest regulations with the Chippewa National Forest directly via their official website for any specific requirements: usda.gov.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Yes, the Shingobee Recreation Area trails offer excellent connectivity. They link to larger networks such as the Paul Bunyan State Trail and the Heartland State Trail via the Shingobee Connection Trail, allowing for extended hiking or biking loops. The route itself also passes through sections of the North Country National Scenic Trail (MN), Mississippi River Trail (Minnesota-Alternate), Paul Bunyan State Trail, and United States Bicycle Route 45A.

Primitive camping, including dispersed camping, is available along the trail, with some campsites equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and latrines. During colder months, a sliding hill and a warming chalet are available for visitors. Trail intersections are clearly marked with maps for easy navigation.

The trail provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. You might spot various birds, especially during migration, and other forest creatures. In spring and summer, the area is also rich with wildflowers, morel mushrooms, and berries.