Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Midwest Region

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Mille Lacs NWR

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2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest

Contact Us

Phone: 218-768-2402
V/TTY: 800-877-8339
Address:
36298 State Highway 65
McGregor, MN 55760

Trails:

Picture of Twin Lakes from the hiking trail

 

Trail Information

hiking mapAll trails pass through a mixture of upland and lowland hardwood forest, small grasslands and marsh. 

Songbirds are the most abundant wildlife seen and heard on the trails.  Users may occasionally see raccoon, owls, hawks, bald eagles, waterfowl, deer, skunks and bears.

The slope for most trails ranges from level to gently sloping. 

Some muddy and wet areas may be encountered.

Viewing Wildlife

Binoculars and a field guide will improve your chances of seeing wildlife; both are available for loan at the Refuge Headquarters during office hours, Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Restrooms

Restrooms are located at the:

bullet Refuge Headquarters (office hours)
bullet Rice River bridge
bullet Rice Lake observation tower

Hiking trail near Mandy LakePicnic Tables

Picnic tables are located at Mandy Lake and Twin Lakes.

If you encounter a bear on the trail, remain calm, for these are black bears, the least aggressive of the bear species. 

You may be surprised to know that most bears fear people as much as you fear them- and will flee when they hear or see you!  If you see a bear which does not leave, make some noise and give it an easy escape route. 

Remember seeing a bear is an uncommon, yet memorable experience!

Cross-Country Skiing

Mandy Lake, Civil Conservation Corps Camp, Twin Lakes, and North Bog Trail loops are groomed for skiing in the winter months.  Parking is available at Mandy Lake.

Insects!!

Ticks are abundant from late May through early July.  Mosquitoes and deer flies are abundant from June through August.  Insect repellent and other precautions should be taken.

Twin Lakes hiking trail


Last updated: July 17, 2008