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Minnesota State Parks

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Scenic State Park
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SCENIC STATE PARK
SCENIC STATE PARK
56956 Scenic Highway 7
Bigfork, Minnesota   56628

Phone: 218-743-3362
Toll Free: 888-646-6367
Reservations: 866-857-2757
Email: park email button icon
With its pristine lakes, virgin pines, swimming beach, and nesting osprey, Scenic State Park is well deserving of its name. Here, visitors can hike the Chase Point Trail for hypnotic views of Coon and Sandwick Lakes and listen to the wind whistle through the the giant pines. The park's overnight facilities include campsites (boat-in, drive-in, backpack), and a guest house. The historic lodge houses interpretive displays.
Nature of the Area
Scenic State Park protects the entire virgin pine shorelands of Coon and Sandwick Lakes, plus part of the Lake of the Isles, Tell Lake, Cedar Lake and Pine Lake. Coon and Sandwick lakes are the most popular places in the park and offer great fishing for walleyes, northerns, bass and panfish. The park is located in the Laurentian Mixed Forest landscape region abundant with aspen-birch, white and Norway pine, jack pine and mixed hardwoods.

During the last glacial period, imagine a sheet of ice hundreds of feet high slowly creeping and gouging the earth. As the climate changed and glaciers began to melt, the retreating glaciers left behind depressions, ridges and deposits of soil that formed the rolling hills throughout the area.

More than 40 species of animals inhabit Scenic State Park including bald eagles, ospreys, loons, jays, pileated woodpeckers and a variety of songbirds. Birders consider this one of the best places in the state to see the hard-to-find spruce grouse. Along the lakes, marshes and streams, you may come across frogs, toads or even snakes. Otters, beavers and an occasional moose share this 3,560-acre habitat.
History of the Area
Although the Ojibwe used this area as part of their hunting grounds, there is little evidence that it was heavily used.
Swimming
1. Scenic State Park offers two sandy beaches for swimming: Coon Lake Beach and Sandwick Lake Beach.
2. Both lakes are surrounded by beautiful forest, providing a picturesque backdrop while you swim.
3. Lifeguards aren't present at the park's beaches; visitors should exercise caution when swimming in these areas.
4. Swimming is not allowed outside of designated beach areas due to safety concerns such as hidden rocks or currents.
5. The water quality at both lakes is regularly tested during summer months ensuring safe conditions for swimmers.
6. The lake temperatures can vary greatly throughout the year so check before planning your visit.
7. Picnic tables and grills near each beach provide an opportunity to enjoy meals after a refreshing swim.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There are boat rentals available, including canoes and rowboats. The two large lakes within the park - Coon and Sandwick Lakes - provide ample space for recreational boating activities such as fishing or simply enjoying the natural surroundings from water level. Boat ramps are also provided at both these lakes to facilitate easy access to waterside fun.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in pristine lakes, home to Northern Pike, Walleye and various panfish. Ice fishing is popular during winter months. The park also offers boat rentals for a relaxing day on the water. Anglers can try their luck at Coon or Sandwick Lake within the park boundaries.


Location
Scenic State Park is

Picnicking
Scenic State Park offers picnic tables, fire rings and grills. It also has a large shelter available for rent.
Bicycling
For biking enthusiasts, there are several options available. The park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels.

The Chase Point Trail is an excellent choice if you're looking for moderate difficulty and beautiful views. It's 1.5 miles long.

If you prefer something more challenging, the Pine Ridge trail might be suitable with its steep inclines over a distance of two miles.

Remember to always wear protective gear when cycling on these paths as they can have uneven surfaces or unexpected obstacles like fallen branches or rocks.

Also note that some areas may not permit bicycling due to environmental concerns so it's best to check before setting off.

Please respect all posted signs regarding bike use in order protect both yourself and the natural environment around you.

It should also be noted that bikes aren't provided by the park; visitors must bring their own equipment along with them.

Lastly, remember weather conditions could affect your ride - wet terrain can make certain routes slippery and potentially dangerous.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with over 100 species, including Bald Eagles and Common Loons. Bird checklists are available at the park office for enthusiasts to use during their visit. The Chase Point Trail is a popular spot for birdwatchers due to its diverse habitats attracting various birds.

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Directions
Located 7 miles east of Bigfork on County Road 7. Also 32 miles north of Hwy 169.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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