Moose Viewing Trail

The Moose Viewing Trail is a 1/4 mile hike. The trail is in an area which is perfect moose habitat. A short easy hike takes you to a overlook platform, but keep your eyes open for moose the whole way.

The moose viewing wildlife observation area was developed to provide you with a viewing platform in prime moose habitat. The best time to look for moose is at dawn and dusk, but they can also be seen in the day and night. Of course, this is no guarantee that you’ll be lucky enough to see one of these spectacular animals.

Your chances are good though that you may see one on your visit to the Superior. Look in low places along the sides of the Gunflint Trail, or along Hwy 1 going to Ely. Moose are also frequently seen crossing Hwy 61, so be cautious when one of these 1200 pound animals decides to venture out into the road. Moose can be defensive, particularly in spring when cows are with calves and in fall when bulls are in rut.

When taking photos or observing, don’t approach the animals, particularly at those times. Please respect wildlife. If the animals start to pay attention to you or appear to alter their behavior, it is time to back off. Stay on the trails and platform to reduce the chances of disturbing the animals.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

22000

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

Wildlife viewing
1/3 mile hiking trail
Interpretive signs along the trail
Viewing platform

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.

When visiting, please remember

Trails are for non-motorized use only.
Only use facilities that are provided.

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.

Address: 2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Phone: (218) 387-1750
Hours: April 28 – September 30, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed weekends. No BWCAW permit issuance and no Eastern National Forest Interpretative Association retail sales products. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov

Getting There

Parking

There is parking for approximately 15 cars.

Directions

The moose viewing trail and platform are located north of Grand Marais off the Gunflint Trail (County 12).

From MN 61, turn north on County Road 12 (Gunflint Trail) in the center of Grand Marais.
Follow Cty 12 about 24 miles north.
Parking is located on the left side of the road just opposite FR 316.

Hike down the snowmobile trail northwest for 1/4 mile to a narrow path that leads off to the right to the viewing platform.