The Chippewa National Forest is itself a relic that has survived the clear-cuts that devastated most of the Eastern forests. It has many old growth trees that are 200-300 years old. They are easily located on the National Forest nature trails where signs describe them and their age. Minnesota's cold winters divide its forests into pine, spruce, and balsam fir in the North while hardwoods of aspen, birch, oak, and maple are found in warmer areas to the South.

Chippewa National Forest has the distinction of having the largest population of bald eagles in the Lower 48 states. At present there are over 200 nesting pairs of bald eagles in Chippewa. Eagles less than 5 years old are about as large as the adults, but can be distinguished by their lack of the characteristic white head.

Nature excursions to view Chippewa's beautiful scenery via the roadways can be easily accomplished on the National Forest Scenic Byways. The Northwoods byway extends north and south of Marcell for 20 miles in either direction on Rt 38. Dense forests of red oak, paper birch, and quaking aspen line the highway. Two of the forest's most scenic campgrounds are located along this road ie. North Star and Clubhouse Lake. Both campgrounds are excellent choices for fisherman. North Star has 38 lakeside campsites ($10), boat ramp, and docking adjacent to your campsite on the shore of its 90 feet deep lake. The lake is managed for muskie. North Star is located three miles south of Marcell on Rt 38 (25 miles north of Grand Rapids).

The Clubhouse Lake Campground is another excellent choice for a remote wilderness adventure. Located on the west shore of Clubhouse Lake in a stand of red and white pine with 48 campsites ($10). Clubhouse Lake is 80 feet deep and has excellent fishing for northern pike and bass. Clubhouse is located six miles east of Marcell on Rt 45, then north 1.5 mi on forest road (FR) 2181, and east 1.5 mi on FR 3758 to the campground (for reservations at Clubhouse www.reserveusa.com/nrrs/mn/club).