Deer Season Trail Closures: All You Need to Know

Hunting Traditions Happening on the Range

Each fall hundreds of families head to the woods to spend long hours in the deer stand or walking the woods. It’s a tradition that endures because of the camaraderie, the lure of nature – even on a bitter cold morning –  and of course, the hunt. For two weeks each November, the Minnesota Firearms Deer Season brings sportsmen and women into the state’s fields and forests. To keep both hunters and other recreationalists safe, there are many trail closures and even on open trails, it’s best to wear blaze orange whether you’re a hunter or not.

Find Out if Your Trail is Closed

On the Iron Range, broad trail closures include the Iron Range Off Highway Vehicle Recreation Area and Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm. Both are closed to all user groups during the firearms deer season. And, while licensed hunters are allowed to ride ATVs during restricted hours of deer season and in conjunction with hunting activities, everyone else is completely restricted from riding on certain trails during this time.

For the best and most up-to-date information, check with the Minnesota DNR trail closure listings.

Good Alternatives for Hikers

If you’re feeling the need to hike our trails during deer season, make sure to wear orange! Try the Carey Lake Trails in Hibbing, or hike at Giants Ridge.