Lost 40


Area Status: Open
Looking up the trunk of an evergreen tree.

Experience the forest of yesteryear at the Lost 40. Minnesota was one of the largest timber-producing states in the country in the late 1800s, but 144 acres of red and white pines went untouched by loggers when a surveying error mapped the area as part of Coddington Lake. The survey crew's error in 1882, became one of Minnesota's greatest treasures. Today, less than two percent of Minnesota's forested land contains old growth timber. The Lost 40 pines are 300-400 years old, originating when the pilgrims came to America. The trees remain as remnants of the natural resources that drew people to new frontiers and shaping America’s character. A one-mile, self-guided trail winds its way through the towering pines of the Lost 40.

Informational Flyer | Interpretive Trail

Lost 40

At a Glance

Current Conditions: There is something about walking among this old growth Forest in the winter that makes the Lost 40 trail a favorite ungroomed hiking or snowshoe trail. Many people visit in the summer, but just a hardy few trek to the north central edge of the Forest to visit in winter. Get out there and enjoy this short beautiful trail!
Fees: None
Open Season: January - December
Usage: Light
Closest Towns: Blackduck, Alvwood
Water: None
Restroom: Vault
Operated By: Operated by the Forest Service
Information Center: Blackduck Ranger District Phone: 218-835-4291

General Information

Directions:

From Blackduck take County Roads 30/13 to Alvwood, travel north on State Highway 46 for 1/2 mile to County Road 29. Follow 29 east for about 11 miles to Dora Lake and County Road 26. Travel 2 miles north on 26 to Forest Road 2240. About 1 1/2 miles west of this intersection you will find a sign for the Lost 40.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

This trail takes you through trees that are up to 350 years old and between 22 and 48 inches in diameter. The Lost 40 is considered a unique area in the Chippewa National Forest and will be managed to maintain its old growth character.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Viewing Plants

Viewing Scenery

Interpretive Areas

This trail takes you through trees that are up to 350 years old and between 22 and 48 inches in diameter. The Lost 40 is considered a unique area in the Chippewa National Forest and will be managed to maintain its old growth character.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Picnicking

This trail takes you through trees that are up to 350 years old and between 22 and 48 inches in diameter. The Lost 40 is considered a unique area in the Chippewa National Forest and will be managed to maintain its old growth character.

Sleeping Shelter No
Difficulty Level: Easy

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
.5 miles

  Latitude : 
47.766

  Longitude : 
-94.089