Lake Carlos State Park
Hiking Club Trail
Trail Overview
Region
Central
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Distance
2.9 miles (loop)
Estimated Hike Duration
1 – 1.5 hours
Elevation Gain
Around 120 feet
Best Season To Visit
Late spring through fall
Rolling Hills and Lakeside Forest
Photo above of Lake Carlos State Park is courtesy of McGhiever via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).
The Hiking Club Trail at Lake Carlos State Park winds through a variety of terrain including wooded ridges, wetlands, and open hills overlooking Lake Carlos.
Along the route, you’ll encounter boardwalks, gentle climbs, and several scenic lake overlooks that make this trail one of Central Minnesota’s most beautiful park hikes.
In summer, expect songbirds and wildflowers. In autumn, the forest bursts into brilliant shades of gold and orange.
Badge for this hike:
Trailhead location
