Big Moose Trail
The Big Moose Trail is 2 ½ miles one way. From the parking lot, the trail follows an old roadbed for about ½ mile, then turns right and traverses a forest of jack pine and aspen for most of its length. The last ½ mile passes through mature red, white and jack pine and aspen with areas of ledge rock.
Watch for piles of rocks, called cairns, to guide you on the ledge rock. The last portion of the trail near Big Moose Lake is in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).
Map and compass skills are recommended for users of this trail.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Features
- 2½ miles of hiking trail (one way) to Big Moose Lake
- 3 hours hiking time for round trip
- Enters the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
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 #76.
Boil or filter water along the trail.
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: October 1, 2025-April 30, 2026, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
Big Moose Trail is located 47 miles northeast of Orr, MN.
- From Orr, take St. Louis County 23 to Buyck (16 miles).
- At Buyck, County 23 turns into County 24. Continue on County 24 for 4 miles to the Echo Trail (County 116).
- Turn right for 25 miles to the east end of Forest Road 464 (Moose Loop Road).
- Turn right on Forest Road 464 for 1½ miles. Trailhead and parking are on the left.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service
Nearby Recreation Sites
Recreation Groups
