The Lost 40, located in Minnesota’s Chippewa National Forest, is a rare remnant of old-growth forest that was spared from logging due to a surveying error in 1882. Today, this 114-acre area stands as a critical habitat for diverse wildlife and a living testament to the region’s ecological history.
The Lost 40, located in the Chippewa National Forest, is a pristine example of Minnesota’s old-growth pine forest. This area remained untouched by logging operations, which decimated much of the region’s original forests, due to a surveying error in 1882. The surveyor, Josiah A. King, mistakenly plotted Coddington Lake about half a mile further northwest than its actual location. As a result, the 114-acre area known today as the Lost 40 was never logged, preserving a rare stand of virgin red and white pine trees.
A Snapshot of the Past
The Lost 40 is home to some of the... Read more
Big Fork River flows north through a landscape of pine, spruce, fir, cedar, aspen, and birch forests to Rainy River!
The Big Fork River winds north through a rich landscape of pine, spruce, fir, cedar, aspen, and birch forests until it joins the Rainy River. Along its path, the towns of Bigfork and Big Falls serve as the main developed areas, offering convenient points for river access.
Anglers will find excellent fishing opportunities along the Big Fork, with species like walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass plentiful in its waters. The river is also a haven for birdwatchers, with frequent sightings... Read more
Smokey Bear State Forest is nestled in northern Minnesota’s Koochiching County, covering 12,276 acres. Located near the mouth of the Big Fork River, just south of the Canada border!
This northern forest is named after the iconic figure Smokey Bear, symbolizing wildfire prevention and forest conservation—a fitting namesake for this scenic and ecologically significant area. Smokey Bear State Forest spans across 12,276 acres. This vast, scenic area is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
In the warmer months, visitors enjoy hiking, biking, canoeing, and fishing in the forest’s rivers and lakes. During winter, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing offer unique ways to experience the snowy landscape.
The forest... Read more
