Chippewa National Forest:  USDA Forest Service, Cass Lake Minnesota.

Located in the heart of northern Minnesota, the Chippewa National Forest encompasses 1.6 million acres. The forest and surrounding area are a celebration of seasons, culture, and nature that offers visitors countless recreation opportunities. Originally known as the Minnesota National Forest, the forest changed its name in 1928 to honor its original inhabitants. Today, the forest and the Leech Lake Indian Reservation share boundaries and offer visitors an opportunity to experience Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) culture. Today, 90% of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation is within the forest boundaries and 45% of the forest is within the reservation. This unique overlap provides the opportunity to implement a shared stewardship strategy and enhance the relationship between the Forest Service and the Tribe. 

The forest consists of mixed northern conifer and hardwoods and an abundance of water. It features 3 of the 10 largest lakes in Minnesota and is home to the highest breeding population of bald eagles in the lower 48 States. As part of the Mississippi River headwaters region, there are over 1300 lakes, 923 miles of rivers and streams, and 400,000 acres of wetlands within the forest boundary. To learn more, visit Chippewa National Forest Website.

Attendees will tour the Norway Beach area and stop in to see the Supervisor’s Office – a log building built by CCC.  Please wear appropriate slip resistant hiking shoes!

Lunch provided by USDA Forest Service.