Recreation Region: Cook and US Highway 53 - Duluth to International Falls

Herriman Lake Trail

The Herriman Lake Trail is 13 miles with loops. More than half of the trail is in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The Dovre Lake loop passes through mature red and white pines among rock outcrops. The Herriman Lake loop is a blaze of fall colors at the end of September. The Echo River stretch has scenic views of oxbows along the river.

From the parking lot, it is 0.4 mile to the Echo River Picnic Site. This scenic day-use site is not in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. However, if you hike on to Little Vermilion, Dovre, or Herriman Lakes, or south along the Echo River, you will enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. By following a few simple rules, you can help to preserve the area’s wilderness character.

The main trail that runs east to Little Vermilion Lake ends on a sandy beach. The Dovre Lake loop passes through mature red and white pines among rock outcrops. The Herriman Lake loop is a blaze of fall colors at the end of September. The Echo River stretch has scenic views of oxbows along the river. Please wear proper footwear. There are lots of exposed rocks and roots, and parts of the trail have been rerouted around beaver ponds. In places, the trail may cross a beaver dam. Be especially careful where there is long grass covering the dam. In ledge rock areas, watch for rock cairns that mark the trail.

There are lots of exposed rocks and roots and the trail may cross a beaver dam. Be especially careful where there is long grass covering the dam. In ledge rock areas, watch for rock cairns that mark the trail. Map and compass skills are recommended for users of this trail.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

60244

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Features

13 miles of hiking trail, more than half in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
3 wilderness campsites
Scenic overlooks at Echo River,
Herriman and Dovre Lakes
Walk-in picnic site at Echo River
Fall colors

Safety

You have the responsibility to be adequately prepared for a trip in the wilderness with

good footwear,
ample water,
emergency supplies, and
sufficient time to make the trip.

You should be self sufficient: there is no cell phone coverage, and due to the nature of the trail, there is no easy way to get assistance in, nor any easy way to get people out in emergencies.

Travel

A compass and accurate map are essential.
Bring reliable maps. Maps can be purchased at some Forest Service offices, area businesses and outfitters, or directly from the map companies.
If you get lost, don’t panic. Sit down, relax and think. Chances are that you will figure out your location in a few minutes.
If you plan to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigating, be sure you also bring a map and compass as a back up in case your GPS unit fails.
Dress in layers and be prepared for every kind of weather situation.

This trail is open year-round.

You will need a permit to enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

BWCAW entry point #13.

Boil or filter water

When visiting, please remember

Trails are for non-motorized use only.
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.

Pets/Dogs

Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
Do not allow them to interact with wildlife.

Make sure to thoroughly read the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness page and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip Planning Guide for tips on wilderness trip preparation.

Prior to reserving your permit, please also review the following:

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