5.0
(3)
30
hikers
Blind Ash Bay Trail
01:17
4.90km
30m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Blind Ash Bay Trail, a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) route that winds through a vibrant boreal forest. You will gain a gentle 106 feet (32 metres) in elevation, making it a comfortable journey for most hikers. The trail offers a diverse experience, leading you to the Blind Ash Bay Outlook where you can enjoy expansive views of Kabetogama Lake and Blind Ash Bay itself. Expect varied terrain underfoot, including some narrow, rocky sections with uneven surfaces and exposed roots, adding a touch of natural challenge to this otherwise straightforward path.
Planning your visit is simple, as the trailhead is conveniently located near the Ash River Visitor Center. This makes for easy access whether you are arriving by car or other means. Keep in mind that pets are not allowed on the trail, a regulation in place to protect the park's native wildlife, especially the wolf population. The route is accessible year-round, welcoming hikers in the warmer months and snowshoers when winter blankets the landscape, so you can choose the season that best suits your adventure.
This lollipop loop is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Voyageurs National Park. As you explore, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and deer, which are often spotted within the forest. The trail's design ensures you experience a rich cross-section of the park's ecosystem, making it a notable option for those seeking a peaceful yet engaging outdoor experience in the region.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.51 km
Blind Ash Bay Outlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
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4.90 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.85 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.85 km
< 100 m
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Sunday 10 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the trailhead for the Blind Ash Bay Trail located?
The trailhead for this route is conveniently located near the Ash River Visitor Center in Voyageurs National Park.
Is the Blind Ash Bay Trail dog-friendly?
No, pets are not permitted on this trail. This regulation is in place to help prevent the potential transmission of diseases to the park's wolf population, ensuring the protection of local wildlife.
When is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail is accessible year-round. It's suitable for hiking during the summer months and offers a unique experience for snowshoeing in the winter.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for this trail?
As the trail is located within Voyageurs National Park, there are generally no entrance fees to access the park itself. However, it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for any specific permit requirements or updated regulations before your visit.
What is the terrain like on the Blind Ash Bay Trail?
The trail offers varied terrain, often described as a 'lollipop loop'. You can expect narrow, winding, and rocky sections with uneven surfaces, exposed roots, and inclines/declines. The initial part can be particularly steep. After Bowman Bay, some sections can be swampy, featuring flat, wet, and soggy lowlands with cedar trees.
What can I see along the route?
Hikers are treated to 'postcard-worthy' views of Kabetogama Lake and Blind Ash Bay. A notable point of interest is the Blind Ash Bay Outlook. The trail also immerses you in a boreal forest, with opportunities to see old-growth forests, including centuries-old white pines.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter?
The boreal forest environment provides excellent opportunities for birding and wildlife observation. You might spot deer, and the park is home to a wolf population, though they are rarely seen.
Is this a loop trail?
Yes, the Blind Ash Bay Trail is often described as a 'lollipop loop', meaning it has an out-and-back section leading to a loop portion.
Is this trail suitable for beginners?
While komoot rates this trail as 'easy', the U.S. National Park Service classifies it as 'Moderate'. This is due to its varied terrain, including steep initial sections, uneven surfaces, and potentially swampy areas. Beginners should be prepared for these conditions.
How can I avoid the steepest section of the trail?
If you wish to bypass the particularly steep initial section of the trail, you can choose to start your hike from the Kabetogama Lake Overlook trail instead of the main trailhead near the Ash River Visitor Center.
What are the general regulations for hiking in Voyageurs National Park?
When hiking in Voyageurs National Park, it's important to remember that pets are generally not allowed on trails to protect wildlife. Always stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in, and respect wildlife from a distance. Check the official National Park Service website for the most current and detailed regulations.