The Mystery of the ‘Lost Forty’ Forest of Minnesota

Deep in the Chippewa National Forest lies the "Lost Forty," a 144-acre swath of pristine old-growth forest that offers a rare glimpse into Minnesota’s untouched wilderness. Its survival is a happy accident, stemming from a surveying error over a century ago.

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The Error That Created The Minnesota Lost Forty

In 1882, during a government survey of the area, cartographers mistakenly marked the land surrounding the Lost Forty as part of Coddington Lake. This error rendered the land seemingly inaccessible and undesirable to loggers, who were primarily interested in areas with easy transportation for felled timber. By the time the mistake was discovered, much of Minnesota's original old-growth forests had been logged. The Lost Forty remained untouched, preserving towering red and white pines that have stood for over 350 years. That's around the same time-period the pilgrims first arrived on the shores of what would become the United States.

The area’s unique status wasn’t fully recognized until the mid-20th century. Today, it’s one of the last remnants of old-growth forest in the state, offering a living time capsule of what Minnesota’s landscape looked like before the lumber industry reshaped it. Some trees in the Lost Forty stand over 120 feet tall and measure more than three feet in diameter, making them true giants of the forest.

Visitors to the Lost Forty can explore its history and beauty through a well-maintained trail system. Interpretive signs along the path tell the story of the surveying mistake and the logging boom that nearly erased such forests from Minnesota. For nature enthusiasts, it’s also a haven for wildlife, including rare bird species that thrive in old-growth habitats.

The Lost Forty serves as a vital reminder of Minnesota's natural heritage and the power of chance in preserving history. It stands as a testament to the resilience of nature and the enduring value of conservation.

To learn more about the Lost Forty and its significance, check out the article from the USDA here.

Story Sources: USDA GOV Website