Near NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail
The spot between Lake Twenty-one and Nelson Lake
Near NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail
The trail passes through a grassy ironwood stand
Near NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail
The oak forest - can you spot the sign of beavers?
Near NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail
Be sure to wear blaze orange in the fall during hunting season

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

NCT - Lake Nelson Loop Trail

4.0 (1 Rating)
Hike this loop trail around this scenic lake and enjoy views, wildlife, and maybe even some fishing.
1.3
mi
Distance
112
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyLakeLakefrontSwimmingViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
Closed during deer rifle season in early November.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.34mi
Distance
112ft
Elevation Gain
107ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
1,529ft
High Point
1,427ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
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.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Lakes Nelson & Twentyone Loops

Hike Route

Lakes Nelson & Twentyone Loops

Birding
moderate
3.67 mi
+263 ft
Aiton Heights Fire Tower

Hike Route

Aiton Heights Fire Tower

easy
0.88 mi
+101 ft
Hallaway Hill

Hike Route

Hallaway Hill

Lake
easy
0.44 mi
+148 ft
Annie Battle Lake Trail

Hike Route

Annie Battle Lake Trail

Lake
easy
3.27 mi
+16 ft
The Big Bog

Hike Route

The Big Bog

Birding
easy
2.31 mi
+0 ft
Buffalo River State Park Hiking Club Trail

Hike Route

Buffalo River State Park Hiking Club Trail

Dogs Allowed
easy
2.62 mi
+42 ft
Contributors
Matthew Davis