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Minnesota
52

Minnesota State Parks

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Minnesota
Heartland Region
Smoky Hills State Forest
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SMOKY HILLS STATE FOREST
SMOKY HILLS STATE FOREST
The Smoky Hills State Forest in Minnesota is a breathtaking natural haven that boasts a diverse landscape of rolling hills and verdant forests. Its picturesque trails wind through dense woodlands, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors. The forest is characterized by its towering oak and maple trees, creating a vibrant display of colors during the fall season. Visitors can indulge in a multitude of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, and wildlife observation, spotting animals like white-tailed deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. With its serene ambiance, stunning vistas, and abundance of natural wonders, the Smoky Hills State Forest is an idyllic destination that captivates the hearts of all who explore its enchanting trails.
History of the Area
The Smoky Hills State Forest, located in western Minnesota, has a rich history that stretches back centuries. Here is a brief overview of its historical background:

1. Indigenous People: The region that now encompasses Smoky Hills State Forest has been home to various Native American tribes for thousands of years. The Dakota Sioux people, in particular, inhabited the area, utilizing the land for hunting, gathering, and cultural activities.

2. European Settlement: During the 19th century, European settlers, primarily from European countries like Germany and Sweden, began to immigrate to the area. They established small farming communities and began cultivating the land for agriculture and livestock.

3. Logging Era: In the late 1800s, the pristine forests of the area attracted lumber companies. Logging became a significant industry, with large-scale harvesting of timber for building materials and fuel. Railroads were built to transport the logs, and logging camps sprung up across the region.

4. Fire Suppression and Reforestation Efforts: Fires were a common occurrence in the forests, often stemming from logging operations. However, in the mid-20th century, as concerns grew about the depletion of forest resources, fire suppression efforts were initiated. Reforestation programs were also implemented, aiming to restore the forested lands.

5. Creation of Smoky Hills State Forest: The State of Minnesota recognized the value of preserving this unique forest ecosystem and established the Smoky Hills State Forest in 1962. It was designated as a "multiple-use" forest, which means it serves various purposes, including recreational activities, wildlife habitat, and sustainable timber harvesting.

6. Recreational Development: Over the years, the state forest has seen the development of recreational amenities to cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Campgrounds, trails for hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, as well as fishing and hunting opportunities, have been established to promote the enjoyment of the area's natural beauty.

Smoky Hills State Forest continues to serve as an important natural and recreational resource in Minnesota, providing opportunities for both conservation and outdoor activities.
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Trails
1. Smoky Hills State Forest Loop: This is a 4-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the forest and its diverse wildlife. The path winds through dense woods, open meadows, and along several small streams.

2. Bad Medicine Lake Trail: A moderately challenging hike stretching about 5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of around 400 feet; it takes you to one of Minnesota's most beautiful lakes - Bad Medicine Lake.

3. Shell River Pathway: An easy-to-moderate level hiking route spanning approximately six miles in length which follows alongside the picturesque Shell River offering stunning riverine landscapes throughout your journey.

4. Pine Cone Hill Trail: Approximately three-and-a-half mile long moderate difficulty trail featuring lush pine forests on rolling hillsides leading up to panoramic viewpoints atop Pine Cone Hill.

5. Wolf Creek Falls Hiking Route: It's a short but steep two-mile trek down into Wolf Creek Valley where hikers can enjoy viewing cascading waterfalls surrounded by verdant greenery during spring or fall foliage colors during autumn months.

6. Smoky Ridge Overlook Track: About four miles out-and-back track taking you across varied terrains including hardwood forests before culminating at an overlook providing breathtaking vistas over Smoky Hills State Forest landscape especially mesmerizing during sunrise or sunset hours.

7. Bog Walk Nature Trek: Easy half-mile boardwalk stroll ideal for families introducing them to unique bog ecosystems within this state forest showcasing rare plant species like carnivorous sundews & pitcher plants besides various birdlife inhabiting these wetlands areas.

8. Cottonwood Lakeside Stroll: One mile flat walking pathway skirting Cottonwood lake perfect for leisurely walks while enjoying serene waterscapes against backdrop towering trees lining shores.

9. Smoke Signal Peak Climb- Challenging five: odd mile uphill climb towards Smoke Signal peak rewarding climbers with sweeping aerial perspectives over entire parkland and beyond.

10. Hidden Valley Exploration Trail: A 7-mile trail that takes you through a hidden valley, offering glimpses of the forest's rich biodiversity including deer, foxes, birds among others.

11. Fire Tower Lookout Path: Approximately two miles long path leading to an old fire lookout tower which once climbed offers panoramic views over Smoky Hills State Forest's dense tree canopies stretching till horizon line.

12. Wildflower Meadow Walk: Easy one mile loop walk across open meadows dotted with seasonal wildflowers adding vibrant colors to your hiking experience during spring or summer months in this state parkland.

13. Bear Den Woods Wander: An adventurous three-and-a-half mile trek taking hikers deep into woods known for frequent bear sightings besides other wildlife like coyotes, raccoons etc making it thrilling yet cautious hike within these forests.

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Directions
The Smoky Hills State Forest is located in north-central Minnesota. To get there from Minneapolis, follow I-94 W for about 100 miles until you reach Alexandria. Take exit 103B to merge onto MN-29 N and continue on this road for approximately 35 miles.

Once you pass Parkers Prairie, turn left onto County Road 38/State Hwy 235 and drive for around six miles. Then take a right onto Co Rd A42/N Lake Miltona Dr NE and proceed straight ahead for another five miles.

Next, make a slight left turn to stay on Co Rd A42/E Lake Miltona Dr NE before turning right again after half a mile to remain on the same road. Continue driving eastward along E Lake Miltona Drive Northeast (Co Rd A42) until you reach the entrance of Smoky Hills State Forest.

Upon arrival at the forest's entrance, park your vehicle in designated areas if available or as instructed by signs or staff members present onsite.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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