Twin Lakes

The Forest Wins

State: Minnesota County: Carlton County Founded: 1890s Abandoned: 1940s Peak Population: 400

Twin Lakes was a logging camp that became a small town as workers brought families. When the timber was gone, so was the reason for Twin Lakes. The forest grew back, covering the ruins.

Logging Era

Loggers harvested white pine around Twin Lakes. The town served as a supply point for camps in the surrounding forest.

Return of the Forest

After logging, the land was abandoned. New forest grew over the townsite, hiding ruins that emerge only when you know where to look.

Timeline

  • 1890s - Founded Logging began
  • 1910s - Peak Timber harvesting at maximum
  • 1940s - Abandoned Timber gone

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Summer

Difficulty: Difficult - finding ruins

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Quick Facts

  • Forest has reclaimed the site
  • Foundations hidden in second-growth woods
  • Typical of Minnesota logging ghost towns

Location

Address: Near Cloquet, Minnesota

Coordinates: 46.85, -92.5833