Just south of International Falls and the Koochiching State Forest in Itasca and St. Louis counties of Minnesota, the George Washington State Forest is truly one of the most amazing regions in all of northern Minnesota. At over 320,000 acres, forests of white spruce, balsam fir, birch, aspen and pine trees mingle with lower marshy lands filled with black spruce, cedar, elm and ash trees. With such an array of habitats and environments, the George Washington State Forest has served as a protected haven for countless varieties of plant and animal species since its official establishment by the Minnesota legislature in 1931. The forest was officially established in order to commemorate the 200th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. Prior to receiving its official status as a state forest, the forests were largely depleted by the logging industry in the late 19th and early 20th century. Since the 1930′s, vigilant conservation efforts have allowed the forest to re-emerge to its former glory. Visitors today can experience the forest as it once existed; untouched by human development and construction; peaceful, secluded and breath-taking.
With the variety of types of ecological terrain here, wildlife watching is an excellent pastime in the George Washington State Forest. Birds flourish here in the park. Be sure to keep an eye out for bald eagles, wood ducks, red-tailed hawks, owls, sandhill cranes and wild turkies during your stay here. Black bears, badgers, beavers, bullfrogs, salamanders, elk, foxes and deer all make their home here along with numerous other plant and animal species.
Fans of outdoor sports will find no shortage of summer and winter activities here in the George Washington State Forest. Cross-country skiing is a sport tailor-made for the terrain of northern Minnesota. With countless trails for everyone from beginners to more advanced skiers, the George Washington State Forest is a great place to explore via cross-country skiing in winter. Over two hundred miles of trails beckon snow-mobilers eager to explore the pristine, white forests of winter. In summer, boating, hiking, kayaking and canoeing are popular pastimes. Hunting is also an approved activity, subject to restricted times and species throughout the year.
Hardcore hikers might want to plan a journey on the Taconite State Trail. This 165 mile trail extends from Ely, Minnesota all the way down to Grand Rapids, Minnesota and passes directly through the George Washington State Forest. Traversing a variety of ecological terrains, some portions of the trail are appropriate for mountain biking, snow-mobiling and all-terrain vehicles. The first six miles of the trail near Grand Rapids are actually paved, making them perfect for in-line skating or biking in summer.
If you are looking for a spot to camp and immerse yourself in nature, the rolling hills and clear lakes of the George Washington State Forest are excellent for their seclusion and varied ecosystems. In total, there are eight different campgrounds here, all with different, equally desirable features. Button Box, Bear Lake, Owen Lake, Lost Lake, and Thistledew Lake all feature boat launches and fishing. The Togo Horse Campground and the Stony Brook Horse Campground, have picket lines and pull-through campsites, allowing campers to set forth on horseback to explore the trails and scenery of this amazing forest. In total, there are more than sixty miles of horseback trails here. Backcountry camping is also an option for those equipped to carry their tents and supplies through the forests.
If camping is a little too ‘outdoorsy’ for your tastes, check out one of the many resorts and hotels of the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. The George Washington State Forest is approximately an hour’s distance by car from Grand Rapids, making it a convenient spot for a day trip of hiking or boating here in the Minnesota Northwoods. Other local communities include Marcell, Effie, Big Fork and Side Lake, which may be good spots to look for lodging alternatives.
No matter what the season, the George Washington State Forest is the perfect spot to experience all the beauty northern Minnesota has to offer. Whether you are just passing through, or planning an extended stay to this extraordinary region, be sure to plan a visit to the George Washington State Forest.
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