Spectacular Views Of Two Secret Lakes Hidden By A Forest Await Those Who Hike Bean and Bear Lake Loop In Minnesota

Minnesota is filled with a seemingly endless collection of nature trails. They're in every corner of the state, and they lead to towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and many of the state's other natural wonders. Northern Minnesota is especially full of excellent trails, many of them cutting through the region's acre upon acre of forested wilderness. While there are many trails that deserve to be highlighted, today we'd like to introduce the Bean and Bear Lake Loop trail. Along it, you'll find incredible views of two lakes hidden by a forest. Read on below to learn more:

The Bean and Bear Lake Loop Trail is a 6.5-mile trail through northern Minnesota. It's near Silver Bay, a few miles off Highway 61 on the North Shore.

This hike through the woods is considered moderate in difficulty. The trail is unpaved, though there are boardwalks in some areas. You may run into fallen branches or exposed roots.

The trail is also steep in some areas. You'll definitely want to bring sturdy shoes, drink plenty of water, and step carefully.

As you walk along the trail, you'll soon be surrounded by nature. Not only are the swaying trees filled with wildlife. In their shade, you'll also find wildflowers and other interesting foliage. This trail is a nature lover's dream!

Soon, you'll find the trail climbing higher. Glimpses of the surrounding landscape will come into view...

...and then you'll see everything all at once. The nearly 360-degree view from above includes the tops of thousands of beautiful trees. This forest is absolutely beautiful.

But the beauty doesn't end with the trees. Near the top of the trail, a rocky overlook offers views of the two stars of the show: Bean and Bear Lakes.

Both of these lakes are completely surrounded by the thick forest. The aerial view offered by the trail brings the tree-ringed lakes into focus. It's a unique view of two lakes completely hidden by trees!

The lakes become even more beautiful in the fall, when the surrounding trees are all shades of red and gold. This trail is an absolutely beautiful way to see a secret part of the northern Minnesota woods!

Have you hiked the Bean and Bear Lake Loop? Do you have any other favorite hiking trails in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments above! And if you're looking for a similar - but shorter - trail, check out our past article on the Oberg Mountain Loop.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories