Rainbow Lake Wilderness

Slightly more than six miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail cross this Wilderness from northwest to southeast, passing close to Rainbow Lake itself. Anderson Grade is the only other maintained pathway, crossing from east to west for about four miles. Rolling terrain stands cloaked in northern hardwoods, balsam fir, pine, and paper birch that provide shelter for deer, black bears, red foxes, and coyotes. Bald eagles, hawks, owls, loons, woodpeckers, and songbirds enliven the skies, waterfowl are often seen on Reynard and Wishbone Lakes, and thousands of migrating birds stop for a rest in spring and fall. Anglers should find the pan fishing excellent on Rainbow Lake, and very good in the 15 other lakes and nine small ponds. The lakes also attract canoeists. Hiking is relatively easy, cross-country skiers come for the winter snow, and the area is tightly bordered by Forest Service roads, providing easy access.