Island Lake Loop

This hike is a 1.7-mile lollipop loop through Anoka County’s Martin-Island-Linwood Lakes Regional Park. The trail takes hikers past a lake and through hardwood forest and wetland habitats. Dogs are allowed on the trail when on leash.

The trailhead is located on the north end of the parking lot for the Island Lake beach and picnic area which is located off Martin Lake Road NE near Linwood, Minnesota. Look for the metal gate with the “No Unauthorize Motor Vehicles” sign on it. The trail is not marked but is easy to follow.

The trail starts as a wide grassy path that roughly parallels the shore of Island Lake for about a third of a mile. This portion of the trail is wooded and provides views of Island Lake through the trees. Next the trail follows a boardwalk over wetlands for about 0.2 miles. A good portion of the boardwalk is floating and is quite wobbly so be careful. Shortly after leaving the boardwalk the trail comes to a T, take a right here; this begins the loop. After a short walk you will see a sign for Camp Salie which is a group Camp. Do not take the bridge here, stick to the trail to the left which follows a stream that flows from Island Lake to Martin Lake. The trail next takes the hiker to the Martin Lake Picnic Area; stay left by the trees here. The trail that leaves the park is very wide. Follow this wide trail for about 0.2 miles until you come to a fork.  Do not take the very wide trail that continues to the right, instead take a left. After a few hundred yards the loop is complete; head right at the intersection back to the boardwalk and retrace your steps back to the parking lot.

This trail is pretty much flat except for one hill to climb early in the hike. This makes it suitable for most abilities. Although, those that don’t like the feeling of an unstable floating boardwalk should avoid this trail.