Area Activities

Smoky Hills State Forest

Phone
Website http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_forests/sft00048/index.html
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Smoky Hills State Forest is located in eastern Becker County and is traversed by State Highway 34. It is 20 miles east of Detroit Lakes and 10 miles west of Park Rapids. State forests can be accessed from different points; refer to the Minnesota state highway map for directions.

 
•Rolling to moderately steep slopes characterize this nearly 24,000-acre forest.
 
•The Shell River and numerous small shallow lakes dot the area, providing shorebird viewing. A mix of hardwoods and jack pines makes up the forest. The southern half of the forest is good for fall foliage viewing. Pick fruit and mushrooms.
 
•Enjoy 30 miles of snowmobile trails. North Smoky Hills Trail has 13 miles of trail and can be reached from Osage, three miles west on Highway 34. Wolf Lake Trail has 17 miles of trail and is located 3.5 miles south of Osage on County Road 42. Both trails are marked but not groomed.
 
• This state forest is also known for exceptional hunting for deer and grouse during the fall season