Overview
The Foothills Trail Connector is one of the longer and less-traveled routes in southern Chippewa National Forest, running 8.5 miles from the national forest boundary south into the adjacent Foothills State Forest. The trail was designed to link the two public land trail systems for hunters, horseback riders, and hikers who want a longer through-route in the southern lake country.
The terrain is more varied than much of the Chippewa: a mix of recent aspen clearcuts (which support excellent ruffed grouse and woodcock populations), mature hardwood stands, and several creek crossings through low, wooded riparian zones.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 2.5: National Forest Entry
From the northern trailhead in the Chippewa, the trail passes through a section of recent aspen management (clearcut regrowth from the past 10 to 15 years) where young aspens form a dense thicket. Ruffed grouse are common in this section in fall. The trail is well-marked with blue blazes through the clearcut sections.
Miles 2.5 to 5.0: Mature Hardwood Section
As the clearcut gives way to older forest, the trail character changes noticeably. The mature hardwood canopy provides shade and the understory opens. Two small creek crossings on stepping stones or log bridges occur at miles 3.2 and 4.1. The second crossing can be knee-deep during spring runoff: plan accordingly.
Miles 5.0 to 8.5: State Forest Approach
Crossing the Chippewa–Foothills boundary (marked with signs), the trail continues south through the state forest to the southern trailhead. The state forest section has slightly more maintained footing. The terrain rolls more in the final miles before the trailhead.
When to Hike
June through August: Pleasant forest hiking. The clearcut sections are exposed and hot on sunny summer days: bring sun protection and extra water.
September and October: Excellent fall color and the height of ruffed grouse season. Blaze orange recommended. The mature hardwood section is at its most beautiful in early October.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water from the trailhead: creek water requires treatment and the hike is long enough to demand hydration. Waterproof boots are wise for the spring creek crossings. Blaze orange in fall hunting season.
Trailhead Access
Both trailheads are accessible via county roads south of the main Chippewa forest roads. Unpaved gravel roads. No fee, no permit required on the national forest portion (as of 2026). State forest regulations apply on the southern half: check Minnesota DNR for current rules. Dogs welcome on leash.
Nearby
The Shingobee Recreation Area Trail is the most popular developed trail in the southern forest and a good alternative for those who prefer a loop with facilities nearby. The Norway Beach Loop on Leech Lake is about 45 minutes north for a completely different shoreline experience. Always review Leave No Trace principles and check current conditions before a longer backcountry outing.