Bird Lake Trail

Bird Lake Trail is 12 miles (19 km) one way and meanders through beautiful northwoods country with black spruce bogs and hills of aspen and birch. The picnic area overlooks Bird Lake. A canoe carrydown access to Bird Lake is provided.

Bird Lake Trail Photo Gallery

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

10284

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

12 miles of trails
Beginner and intermediate cross-country ski trails
Hiking
Adirondack shelter on Lillian Lake
Picnic site at Bird Lake

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.

None required.

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: 318 Forestry Road Aurora, MN 55705
Phone: (218) 453-8650
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

Parking

Two parking lots offer easy access from Hoyt Lakes.

Directions

The Bird Lake Recreation Area is located southeast of Hoyt Lakes.

Trail Access: Take County Highway 110 to the parking lot at the east edge of Hoyt Lakes.
Picnic Area and Trail Access: Take County Highway 110 to the parking lot at the Bird Lake Recreation Area, 4 miles southeast of Hoyt Lakes.