Nigh Lake
Nigh Lake is a tiny, 41 acre lake with 1.61 miles of shoreline and is only 12 feet deep at its deepest point.
General Information
Camping
There is 1 site 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.
Boating
When boating with your dog, follow all Minnesota State boating laws.
- Use care when getting your dog in and out of the boat to ensure their safety.
- Consider both you and your dog wearing a life jacket.
- Provide shade for your pet.
- Remember to bring their food and water as it may be unsafe for them to drink lake water.
Camping
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a 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.
- Keep your dog in your tent at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Trail Use
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.
Wildlife
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife
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
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
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Wilderness-style latrines at backcountry campsites
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.
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.
Fish species: northern pike, walleye, yellow perch, white sucker
Area: 41.26 acres, Maximum depth: 12 feet
Recreation Groups
Put your canoe in the Hunting Shack River on the south side of the Echo Trail (County 116).