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Stroll the Big Bog Boardwalk

Big Bog State Recreation Area has the largest peat bog (500 square miles) in the lower 48 states. This is a unique landscape to explore and a great place to examine plants and animals, including rare specimens. A mile-long boardwalk gives visitors an immersive view and experience of the sprawling bog while protecting the bog ecosystem.

Visitors may encounter orchids and rare plants such as yellow-eyed grass and carnivorous sundews and pitcher plants. More than 300 species of birds make their home in the bog, including the great gray owl, Nelson’s sharp-tailed sparrow, and the Connecticut warbler. Other animals include bobcats and bald eagles.

The bog boardwalk begins at Ludlow Island, which features three hiking trails and a picnic shelter. The bog is located in the northern unit of the Big Bog State Recreation Area. The southern unit features other amenities, including a visitor center, observation tower, camping, swimming, and canoe and kayak rental.

Big Bog State Recreation Area is located near Waskish in northwest Minnesota.