Minnesota hosts nearly 900 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail.
What to expect
Wetlands and old growth forests, evidence of historic mining and logging operations, agricultural valleys, glacial lakes, and craggy rocks. Cross a variety of notable land units and features, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Chippewa and Superior National Forests, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, and multiple state parks. The North Country Trail also shares its route with the rugged Border Route and Kekekabic Trails, and the famed Superior Hiking Trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior. Permits for hiking the Kekekabic and Border Route Trails may be obtained from the Superior National Forest office in Ely. Wilderness permits are required year-round and the trails are very remote. Dispersed camping is allowed but designated campsites exist.
Points of contact
Across the state, the trail is cared for predominantly by volunteer Chapters of the North Country Trail Association (NCTA) and the Superior Hiking Trail Association. See the Chapters page for contact information. There are also multiple NCTA Trail Towns in Minnesota, welcoming trail users and offering them a variety of resources.
