NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Learn more about the Gulch Lake Campground and Campsites at dnr.state.mn.us/state_fores… (map: files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/…).

The loop trails are used by trail runners.

Leave the boat launch parking lot heading northwest and pass the intersection with the Lake Twentyone loop trail. Cross the bridge, pass through the Campsite (fee required), and then follow the shoreline heading southwest. Notice the mature jack pine trees that have blown over in recent windstorms. You'll pass the second intersection of the Lake Twentyone loop trail. At the intersection with the North Country Trail (NCT), turn left heading south-southeast on the NCT. Watch for wildflowers along this stretch. At the next NCT intersection, turn left and head east and then northeast. You'll pass by two Campsites (fee required) and then a restroom at the Trailhead parking lot.

The forest is a mixture of oak-pine-aspen. You may see sign of wolves in this area.