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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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USA Parks
Minnesota
Heartland Region
Huntersville State Forest
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HUNTERSVILLE STATE FOREST
HUNTERSVILLE STATE FOREST
Huntersville State Forest, located in Minnesota, is a heaving expanse of natural beauty where moss-covered trees tower overhead and delicate wildflowers dot the forest floor. The forest enchants visitors with its tranquil atmosphere, offering countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and immerse themselves in its thriving ecosystem. Hiking through its winding trails, one can witness the diverse wildlife that calls this place home, from elusive deer to soaring birds. The Forest's diverse terrain includes picturesque wetlands, sparkling lakes, and babbling streams, making it a haven for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. With its breathtaking scenery and serene ambiance, Huntersville State Forest holds a special place in the hearts of nature lovers seeking solace in the beauty of the great outdoors.
History of the Area
1. Native American Presence: The land in and around Huntersville State Forest has been home to various Native American tribes for centuries. The Ojibwe people, also known as the Chippewa, were the predominant tribe in this region. They relied on the forest's resources for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

2. Treaty of 1855: In 1855, the United States government signed the Treaty of Washington with the Ojibwe Nation. This treaty ceded millions of acres of tribal land, including the area that now encompasses Huntersville State Forest. Displacement and forced removal of the Ojibwe people followed, leading to the establishment of European settlements in the region.

3. Logging Era: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the timber industry played a significant role in the development and exploitation of the forest. The area underwent extensive logging operations, with large-scale mills established nearby. It led to the creation of logging camps and timber towns, attracting people seeking work opportunities.

4. Establishment of State Forest: As logging activities depleted the forest's resources, a push for conservation emerged. In 1901, the Minnesota State Legislature passed a law authorizing the creation of state forest reserves. This legislation laid the foundation for the establishment of Huntersville State Forest and other similar forests across the state.

5. Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the federal government established the CCC as part of the New Deal initiative. The CCC provided employment to unemployed young men by engaging them in conservation projects. In Huntersville State Forest, CCC crews worked to construct roads, plant trees, build trails, and develop recreational facilities, which still remain in use today.

6. Forest Management and Preservation: Over the years, the state forest has been managed for sustainable timber production and recreational use. Extensive efforts have been made to strike a balance between economic utilization and ecological preservation. Huntersville State Forest currently provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
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Trails
1. Huntersville Out-and-Back Trail: This is a moderate 4-mile trail that starts at the forest entrance and leads to an old logging site, offering hikers glimpses of local wildlife along with remnants of Minnesota's lumbering history.

2. Pine Point Loop: A relatively easy 3-mile loop perfect for beginners or families with children. The path winds through dense pine forests and offers several scenic overlooks onto nearby wetlands.

3. Shell River Pathway: An intermediate-level hiking route stretching approximately six miles alongside the beautiful Shell River, providing opportunities for fishing or picnicking by its banks.

4. Wetland Wanderer's Route: As implied in its name, this unique trail takes you on a journey around various types of wetlands within the state forest over five miles; it can be quite muddy during certain seasons but provides excellent bird-watching prospects throughout the year.

5. Old Logging Road Hike: For those interested in longer hikes, this challenging ten mile hike follows one of Hunterville State Forest's historic logging roads which are now reclaimed by nature.

6. Deer Stand Climb: Short yet steep two mile climb leading up to an abandoned deer stand giving panoramic views across large swathes of woodland area.

7. Bear Creek Crossing: A seven mile long moderately difficult trek following bear creek as it meanders through diverse landscapes including marshy areas, hardwood stands and open prairies.

8. Fire Tower Lookout: This strenuous four-miles round trip includes climbing steps upto fire tower lookout point where visitors get rewarded with sweeping aerial view spanning entire length & breadth huntersville state park.

9. Tamarack Bog Boardwalk: Easy half-a-mile boardwalk stroll taking walkers right into heart tamarack bog without getting their feet dirty ; great place spot rare plants like pitcher plant sundew carnivorous species native region.

10. Wildflower Way: Two-Mile springtime hike showcasing wide variety wildflowers bloom across forest floor ; interpretive signs along trail help identify different species encountered.

11. Huntersville Canopy Walk: A unique three-mile walk that takes hikers through a series of elevated boardwalks and suspension bridges, offering an unparalleled view of the forest canopy.

12. Shell River Bluff Trail: This challenging 5-mile trek offers stunning views from atop bluff overlooking shell river valley; it's particularly beautiful during fall when leaves change color.

13. Big Pine Loop: An easy two mile loop leading to one oldest largest pine trees within state park, aptly named "Big Pine".

14. Wildlife Watcher's Path: Four-Mile moderately difficult path featuring several wildlife viewing platforms strategically placed observe various animal bird species native area .

15. Huntersville Forest Night Hike: Unique guided night-time hiking experience covering about three miles under starlit sky with opportunity spot nocturnal creatures like owls bats.

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Directions
1. Start by heading north on MN:5 W and continue onto I-494 W.
2. Take exit 4B to merge onto US:10 W toward St Cloud.
3. Continue driving for approximately 120 miles until you reach Staples.
4. In Staples, take a right turn onto County Road 9/State Hwy 210 E and drive for about 8 miles.
5. Turn left at Co Rd 23 N/N Central Ave/Wadena Cass Line Rd NW and continue straight for another mile or so.

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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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