Overview
The Migis Trail is one of the quieter options in Chippewa National Forest, a 6-mile lollipop loop through the northern forest units where jack pine uplands dominate and small fishing lakes appear without fanfare around each bend. The trail is in the northernmost part of the forest, where it blends toward the Leech Lake Reservation and the lake country of Beltrami County.
The name comes from the Ojibwe migis shell tradition: small, white, cowrie-like pebbles found on northern Minnesota lake shores that were central to Midewiwin (Grand Medicine Society) ceremonies. The Ojibwe have deep historical ties to this landscape.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 1.2: Stem of the Lollipop
From the trailhead pullout, the trail heads north through open jack pine with a sandy, bare understory. Jack pine forests in Minnesota often feel parklike due to the sparse canopy and light sandy soil: this section has that quality. A small lake is visible to the right at mile 0.8 before the loop junction at mile 1.2.
Miles 1.2 to 4.8: Loop
Taking the loop counterclockwise, the trail circles two more small lakes before returning to the stem junction. The most attractive lake: a roughly 5-acre pond with a sandy point: is on the north side of the loop at mile 2.5. The shoreline here is accessible and the water is clear. Pike and crappie are reportedly present. The east side of the loop passes through older aspen and birch before returning to the jack pine character of the stem.
Miles 4.8 to 6.0: Return on Stem
Retrace the stem back to the trailhead parking.
When to Hike
June through October: The trail is accessible the full season. Early June brings wildflowers in the jack pine openings. Late September brings gold aspen color. The trail is dry and sandy throughout, draining quickly after rain.
Winter: Ungroomed snowshoe terrain. No facilities or services nearby. Deep snow years make this section beautiful and very remote-feeling.
What to Bring
Carry all water from home: the lake water requires treatment and no facilities exist at the trailhead. Bug repellent in June. A fishing rod if you want to fish the small lakes. The trail has no technical challenges, but bring a map as the blazing can be sparse in the loop sections.
Trailhead Access
The Migis Trailhead is in the northern Chippewa, accessed via county roads north of Cass Lake. The roads are unpaved gravel. No fee, no permit required (as of 2026). Dogs welcome on leash. No restrooms or water at the trailhead.
Nearby
The Norway Beach Loop is about 20 miles south and offers a more developed experience with facilities. The Cut Foot Sioux Trail is about 30 miles east with historic ranger station access. Check current road conditions before driving unpaved county roads to the trailhead in wet seasons, and review Leave No Trace principles.