Astrid Lake Area
The Astrid Lake Area has 7 miles of hiking trail, 6 backcountry campsites and a canoe route with 4 interconnected lakes, including Astrid Lake, Maude Lake, Pauline Lake and Nigh Lake. The area provides an opportunity to experience wilderness-style camping without wilderness permits and regulations.
General Information
Dispersed Camping
There are 6 backcountry campsites total in the area: 2 sites on Maude Lake, 2 on Astrid Lake, 1 on Pauline Lake and 1 on Nigh Lake.
Please use facilities provided such as fire rings, tent pads, and latrines. Pack out garbage. Maximum 9 people per campsite.
When visiting, please remember
- Only use facilities that are provided for fires, tents, and waste.
- Do not make additional fire rings, tent pads, or cat holes.
- You will need to pack out your garbage.
- Nine people per site limit, group sites are available at some sites.
Dogs are allowed at campsites and developed recreation areas; however, they should not be allowed to run loose in recreation areas where they will disturb other forest visitors. Be mindful of the impact a barking dog can have on other forest visitors.
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside an enclosed vehicle or tent.
- Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
- Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
- Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
- Do not leave your dog in the vehicle on a hot day.
- Keep your dog in your tent or vehicle at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Address: 320 N. Highway 53 Cook, MN 55723
Phone: (218) 666-0020
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends, providing full services. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 48.1119321
Longitude: -92.32580256
Directions
Astrid Lake Area is about 29 miles northeast of Orr, MN.
- From Orr, take S. Louis County 23 to Buyck (16 miles).
- At Buyck, County 23 turns into County 24, continue for 4 miles to the Echo Trail (County 116).
- Turn right on the Echo Trail for 9 miles, continue to parking (see above).
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Wilderness-style latrines at backcountry campsites
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
The Astrid Lake Hiking Trail follows gentle terrain with a few steep, rocky sections and some wet areas. Between Lake Jeanette and Nigh Lake pitcher plants abound. On the loop between Nigh and Astrid Lakes there are several areas with huge boulders that were deposited by the glaciers as they receded 10,000 years ago. These glacial erratic's are scattered along with scenic vistas on this stretch of ledge rock. Watch for rock cairns marking the trail here.
Backpacking Info
The Astrid Lake Hiking Trail follows gentle terrain with a few steep, rocky sections and some wet areas. Between Lake Jeanette and Nigh Lake pitcher plants abound. On the loop between Nigh and Astrid Lakes there are several areas with huge boulders that were deposited by the glaciers as they receded 10,000 years ago. These glacial erratic's are scattered along with scenic vistas on this stretch of ledge rock. Watch for rock cairns marking the trail here.
Boating - Non-Motorized Info
Portages
From Forest Road 200, between Maude and Astrid Lakes:
- 80-rod portage into Astrid Lake
- 120-rod portage into Maude Lake
From Echo Trail about ½ mile east of 200 Road:
- 15-minute paddle to Pauline Lake or 30-minute paddle to Astrid Lake (no portages)
- From Pauline, 20-rod portage into Nigh Lake
- From Astrid, 200-rod portage across Forest Road 200 to Maude Lake
Echo Trail about 1 mile east of Hunting Shack River:
- 20-rod portage into Pauline Lake
Fishing - Lake & Pond Info
Permit:
See current Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rules and regulations.
OHV Trail Riding Info
ATV’s are allowed on the portages to Astrid Lake and Maude Lake, but not beyond the portages to the lake.
Recreation Groups
Put your canoe in the Hunting Shack River on the south side of the Echo Trail.