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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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Minnesota
Arrowhead Region
Solana State Forest
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SOLANA STATE FOREST
SOLANA STATE FOREST
Solana State Forest is an enchanting expanse of natural beauty that captivates visitors with its serene atmosphere and diverse wildlife. This lush forest is characterized by towering conifers and deciduous trees, creating a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors throughout the year. The forest is home to numerous picturesque hiking trails, offering an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature while exploring its hidden treasures.
History of the Area
Solana State Forest is located in northern Minnesota and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here's an overview of its history:

1. Native American Presence: The area surrounding Solana State Forest was historically inhabited by indigenous peoples, most notably the Ojibwe (also known as Chippewa) tribe. They utilized the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering natural resources.

2. European Settlement: In the 19th century, European settlers began moving into the region. The area was part of the Northwest Territory and later became part of Minnesota Territory when it was established in 1849.

3. Logging Era: The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a booming logging industry in Minnesota. Solana State Forest, known for its rich timber resources, was heavily targeted during this period. Loggers would harvest trees and float them down rivers to nearby sawmills. The logging activities were instrumental in the development of many nearby towns.

4. Establishment of Solana State Forest: The state of Minnesota began acquiring land in the area to establish a state forest in the 1930s. Solana State Forest was officially designated in 1935 and covers approximately 15,000 acres.

5. Conservation Efforts: Over the years, the state forest has been managed for multiple uses, including timber production, wildlife habitat, and recreation. Conservation efforts have focused on sustainable forestry practices to maintain the health of the forest ecosystem.

6. Recreation and Public Access: Today, Solana State Forest provides various recreational opportunities for visitors, including hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, birdwatching, and snowmobiling. Numerous trails and campsites have been developed within the forest to accommodate outdoor enthusiasts.
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Trails
1. Spider Lake Trails: This is a 29-mile trail system that offers hikers the opportunity to explore various terrains, including forests and lakeshores. The trails are well-marked with difficulty levels ranging from easy to moderate.

2. Foot Hills State Forest Trail: A moderately difficult hiking path spanning about 6 miles within Solana State Forest, this trail provides stunning views of rolling hills and dense forest areas filled with pine trees.

3. Moose River Hiking Trail: Known for its wildlife sightings especially moose, this approximately five mile long loop takes you through lush greenery along the river bank providing an immersive nature experience.

4. Pine Tree Loop Trail: An easier option suitable for beginners or families with children; it's around two miles in length offering serene woodland scenery peppered by towering pine trees throughout your hike.

5. Solana Logging Tract Pathway: It's not just a pathway but also serves as historical insight into Minnesota logging history while traversing through mixed hardwoods over gentle terrain making it perfect choice even for novice hikers having distance less than three miles round trip.

6. Huntersville Outback Trails: These multi-use trails spread across vast area offer challenging hikes due their uneven surfaces & steep inclines however reward lies in panoramic vistas they provide at several points during journey which makes all effort worthwhile.

7. Bowen Lake Loop: One of few lake loops available inside state park, Bowen Lake loop covers roughly four mile stretch encompassing beautiful shoreline view alongside rich flora fauna native region.

8. Wild Rice River Walk: As name suggests, Wild rice river walk follows course wild rice river presenting unique aquatic ecosystem on display besides usual terrestrial landscapes seen other parts.

9. Crow Wing Chain Of Lakes Route: For those who love water bodies more than anything else Crow wing chain route would be ideal pick since it passes multiple lakes interconnected giving ample opportunities bird watching fishing apart regular hiking.

10. Solana State Forest Birding Trail: This trail is a paradise for bird watchers, as it's home to numerous species of birds including warblers and woodpeckers. The path winds through various habitats making every step interesting.

11. Woodtick Fields Trails: These are set in open fields filled with wildflowers during spring summer season offering refreshing change from typical forest trails . They're relatively flat thus suitable all age groups fitness levels.

12. Solana ATV Loop: Though primarily used by off-road vehicle enthusiasts, this loop also welcomes hikers who don't mind sharing space motorized vehicles . It's longer side covering around ten miles but can be shortened using multiple cut-off points available along route.


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Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:35W N.
2. Take exit 38B to merge onto MN:36 E towards Stillwater.
3. Continue on MN:36 E for about 10 miles and then take a slight right onto Manning Ave N/County Rd 15.
4. Follow County Rd 15 for approximately 20 miles until you reach US:8 W/MN-95 S/Washington St S in Taylors Falls.
5. Merge onto US Highway 8 West/MN Highway Southbound (MN Hwy) toward Center City/St Croix Falls WI.
6. Continue driving west on US HWY /Mn hwy south bound.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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