The best walks and hikes in Sand Dunes State Forest
4.3
(7)
38
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking in Sand Dunes State Forest offers a network of trails through a landscape characterized by pine forests, sandy terrain, and gentle elevation changes. The region provides accessible outdoor experiences, with many routes suitable for various skill levels. These trails navigate through wooded areas, offering opportunities for quiet walks and wildlife observation.
Best hiking trails in Sand Dunes State Forest
- The most popular hiking route is Sand Dunes State Forest - Blue Loop, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5
hikers
5.18km
01:19
20m
20m
The Sand Dunes State Forest - Blue Loop invites you on an easy hiking adventure through a surprisingly diverse landscape. You will experience stretches of open prairie, dense pine plantations,…
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
6.59km
01:41
30m
30m
Embark on an easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) hike along the Blue Hill Trail, a route that guides you through a varied landscape of wetlands, prairies, and oak savannas. You will…
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5.0
(1)
8
hikers
4.59km
01:10
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Mahnomen Trail, a gentle 2.9 miles (4.6 km) loop that takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. You will experience a…
1
hikers
2.84km
00:43
10m
10m
If you are looking for a gentle outdoor experience, the Old School House Loop Trail offers an easy hike through the natural landscapes of Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. This route…
8.36km
02:06
10m
10m
Embark on the Great Northern Trail, a moderate hike spanning 5.2 miles (8.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 36 feet (11 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours…
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Tips from the Community
This hike is comprised of two separate loops joined by a short connecting trail. There used to be an old wooden country schoolhouse located on the School House Loop, which then was repurposed as a visitor center. Sadly, the original schoolhouse has been torn down. However, it was replaced by a modern visitor center that has information about the refuge as well as plenty of parking and bathroom facilities.
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The location of this highlight has an observation hide, as shown in the photos. When we visited the site, the hide was open and available.
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Sand Dunes State Forest is a great 2,700 acre nature preserve. It is a mix of pine forest and open prairie. There are miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the park.
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Interesting, old lookout tower in the Uncas Dunes SNA. The tower was probably used in the past as a fire lookout tower. It is not open to climb to the top, but it is interesting to see from the base.
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Lion's Park is a beautiful green space on the edge of Zimmerman. The park has ball fields, a disc golf course, several walking paths and picnic areas.
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The Great Northern Trail is an 8.5 mile long trail from Zimmerman to Elk River. It is fully paved and flat, so it is not a challenging trail to walk. This section takes you into Zimmerman. It is a beautiful section through woodland and past several ponds.
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The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is a 30,000 acre nature preserve. The preserve was created to protect migratory birds and other endangered species native to the area. There are miles of hiking trails through the park and several lakes.
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The Mahnomen Trail is a great trail in Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. It is a loop trail that takes you through prairie, oak savanna and wetland habitats. The trail is popular for hiking and snowshoeing in the winter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Sand Dunes State Forest?
Sand Dunes State Forest offers a network of 7 hiking routes. The majority of these, 6 out of 7, are rated as easy, making the area very accessible for various skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Sand Dunes State Forest?
Yes, Sand Dunes State Forest is ideal for beginners, with 6 out of its 7 routes classified as easy. Trails like the Sand Dunes State Forest - Blue Loop offer straightforward paths through the forest, perfect for those new to hiking.
What is the typical length of trails in Sand Dunes State Forest?
The trails in Sand Dunes State Forest vary in length. For example, the Old School House Loop Trail is about 1.8 miles (2.8 km), while the longest route, the Great Northern Trail, extends to 5.2 miles (8.4 km).
Are there any loop trails in Sand Dunes State Forest?
Yes, several trails in Sand Dunes State Forest are loops, providing a convenient hiking experience. A popular option is the Sand Dunes State Forest - Blue Loop, which is 3.2 miles (5.2 km) long and takes about 1 hour 19 minutes to complete.
Is Sand Dunes State Forest suitable for family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. With 6 out of 7 trails rated as easy and featuring gentle elevation changes, Sand Dunes State Forest is well-suited for families. The sandy paths and pine forests offer a pleasant environment for children and adults alike.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Sand Dunes State Forest?
While the guide data does not specify dog restrictions, state forests in Minnesota generally allow leashed dogs on trails. It's always recommended to check local regulations or signage at the trailhead for the most current information.
What is the best time of year to hike in Sand Dunes State Forest?
The best time to hike in Sand Dunes State Forest is typically during spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the pine forests and sandy terrain. Fall is particularly scenic with changing foliage, while spring brings new growth.
Can I hike in Sand Dunes State Forest during winter?
Winter hiking is possible in Sand Dunes State Forest, offering a quiet and serene experience. Trails may be covered in snow, so appropriate winter gear, such as waterproof boots and warm layers, is recommended. Some trails might also be used for cross-country skiing.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails in Sand Dunes State Forest?
The terrain in Sand Dunes State Forest is characterized by pine forests, sandy paths, and gentle hills. You can expect mostly flat or gently rolling trails, making for a comfortable hiking experience through wooded areas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Sand Dunes State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 5 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the accessible nature of the trails, and the opportunity for peaceful walks through the unique sandy forest landscape.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
While specific named viewpoints are not detailed in the route descriptions, the trails wind through scenic pine forests and open sandy areas, offering picturesque natural views throughout your hike. The gentle elevation changes provide varied perspectives of the forest.
What wildlife might I spot while hiking in Sand Dunes State Forest?
Sand Dunes State Forest is home to various wildlife. Hikers often have the chance to spot white-tailed deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. The quiet nature of the trails provides good opportunities for wildlife observation.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Sand Dunes State Forest?
Yes, parking facilities are generally available at the main trailheads and access points within Sand Dunes State Forest. These areas are typically well-marked to accommodate visitors.
Most popular routes in Sand Dunes State Forest
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