Hiking on trail

National Scenic Trail · Michigan, Minnesota +6 more

North Country National Scenic Trail

Come to the North Country. Trek the hills and valleys. Stand on the shores of lakes & streams from glaciers 10,000 years before. Clear-flowing water, red/gold of autumn, a fairyland of snow, open prairies, and distant horizons paint the land. Historic sites along the way tell how America settled and grew as a nation. From North Dakota to Vermont, adventure is never far away.

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Things to do

  • Biking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Camping
  • Backcountry Camping
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Hiking
  • Backcountry Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Skiing
  • Cross-Country Skiing
  • Snowshoeing
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Shopping
  • Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Weather & when to go

With the trail going through more than 4,800 miles through eight states from the Northeast to the Great Plains, weather along the trail can be highly variable. You could be subject to any kind of weather or temperature related emergency depending on your location and the season. Be careful to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses and hypothermia while out on the trail. Be mindful of lightning, severe storms, and other environmental hazards common to the “North Country.”

Operating hours

Trail Hours

The North Country Trail is generally open at all times and during all seasons. There may be area or seasonal closures at the discretion of the local land owner or manager. Please contact local managers or the North Country Trail Association at (616) 897-5987 x1 for the latest trail closures.

FAQ

Is North Country National Scenic Trail free to visit?
North Country National Scenic Trail does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
What are the hours at North Country National Scenic Trail?
The North Country Trail is generally open at all times and during all seasons. There may be area or seasonal closures at the discretion of the local land owner or manager. Please contact local managers or the North Country Trail Association at (616) 897-5987 x1 for the latest trail closures.
Do I need a reservation for North Country National Scenic Trail?
No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter North Country National Scenic Trail. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.