The waters are gorgeous and the opportunities to enjoy them are numerous but when you want to keep the ground under your feet, you’ll be happy to find fantastic hiking around Lake Kabetogama, too! When it comes to what things to do in Kabetogama, hiking is second best to being on the water.
From leisurely strolls for all experience levels to more advanced routes, here are a few to check out on your next trip.
Start at the Visitor Centers
If you want to get started with some guidance and local insight, head to one of the nearest Visitor Centers: Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center and Ash River Visitor Center.
At Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center you’ll find interactive exhibits, children’s activity table, bookstore, theater for viewing the park film, and a staffed information desk which can also direct you on boat tours and ranger-led programs that are offered at the park. You’ll also be happy to find a free public boat launch, separate paddle access and a picnic center.
Find the Ash River Visitor Center inside the historic, rustic Meadwood Lodge which includes a bookstore, children’s activity corner, exhibits, small theater and a staffed information desk as well. You’ll also find access to picnic tables, free public boat launch and separate paddle access outside.
When you’ve brushed up on local history and education, head off to the trails.
Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail
For a quick but beautiful look of the lake, Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail is the stop. This trail is considered an easy hike and is handicap accessible. A short .4 mile hike will lead you through a pine forest to a lovely overlook of Lake Kabetogama. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the wonders of the natural landscape for all hikers in your group.
Echo Bay Trail
With a difficulty rating of easy, Echo Bay trail is a great choice for taking in the beauty of the scenery at your own pace.
Over 1.5 miles of hiking, you’ll delight in seeing the transition between deciduous and boreal forests while you pass through lowlands and rocky outcrops.
Enjoy views of wetlands created over time by beavers and bring along your binoculars for birding opportunities including songbirds to raptors.
Kab-Ash Trail
Extending 27.9 miles between the Kabetogama and Ash River communities, you’ll find the Kab-Ash Trail. This strenuous trail system offers miles of interconnected trails through forests and wetlands.
While you may choose to thru-hike the extent of the trail, Kab-Ash does offer four trailheads for shorter hikes. The National Park Service does recommend carrying a GPS on this trail system.
This trail offers a multitude of scenic views and habitats to explore as well as wildlife spotting opportunities you will not get on easier trails.
By Boat
If you’re willing to include a trip over water, you’ll want to consider one of a number of trails only accessible by boat.
More advanced trails such as Locator Lake Trail and Cruiser Lake Trail take you on rugged paths leading to areas most visitors never see with opportunities to spot wildlife or enjoy true quiet you can’t get on the mainland.
Whatever hiking trail you’re ready to explore, you’ll find the beauty of northern Minnesota along its path. Pine forests, rocky cliffs, untouched shorelines…the sights, the sounds, your adventure is waiting for you at the trailhead on your next Minnesota vacation.
