Subsequent Event (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	0 Months Ended
	Feb. 20, 2013
LinnCo, LLC | Common Class A
Subsequent Event
Number of Shares Issued Upon Merger	1.25
Subsequent Event | LinnCo, LLC
Subsequent Event
Minimum Shares, Percent	33.33333%
Cash Distributions, Years	3 years
Other Ownership Interests, Cumulative Cash Distributions	$ 6
Subsequent Event | LinnCo, LLC | Common Class B
Subsequent Event
Number of Shares Issued Upon Merger	1.25
Subsequent Event | HoldCo | Common Class A
Subsequent Event
Number of Shares Issued Upon Merger	1
Subsequent Event | HoldCo | Common Class B
Subsequent Event
Number of Shares Issued Upon Merger	1