There’s a fairy tale trail in Minnesota, or, at the very least, it looks like it was ripped out of the pages of a fairy tale. With a set of stairs in the woods, pine needle-covered pathways, and old-growth trees, the Lost 40 is a trail unlike any other in the state. Come here to experience our magical natural world.

Set within the Chippewa National Forest, the Lost 40 Scientific and Natural Area, or SNA for short, encompasses approximately 144 acres. The forest here is relatively untouched and has become one of the best places in Minnesota to see old-growth trees.
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Back in 1882, a surveying error led to the protection of a forest. Saved from loggers who were led to believe it was swampland, there is now an entire forest full of old-growth pine trees.
Aaron N/Google
The 40 acres here at the Lost 40 SNA are truly enchanting. Take a two-mile loop trail and discover old-growth white pine and red pine trees.
Jessica Sweazey/Google

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Along the hike is a set of stairs that lead straight to some white pines. Take your time and take in the surrounding beauty as you're going up.
Brady Evans/Google
Marvel at the tall trees towering overhead. The ages of some of the red pine trees at the Lost 40 SNA are between 230 and 240 years old!
James Luedtke/Google
There is even one tree here that was measured at 115 inches in circumference and 120 feet tall. The trees in this forest are nothing short of magical.
Lela Goettl/Google

Have you ever been on this fairy tale trail in Minnesota? In the comments, please tell us all about your experience. To learn more about the Lost 40 SNA trail, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.

If you love visiting places that look as though they belong in a fairy tale, consider taking our fairy tale road trip to some of the most magical places in Minnesota.

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Lost 40 Scientific and Natural Area (SNA), Twp, Northome, MN 56661, USA