25-26 Destinations Final

2 02 5 -2 02 6 M IN N E SO TA SN O WM O B I L I N G

Discover Winter on a Snowmobile Trail

ADVENTURE

AWAITS

EXPLORE THE TRAILS ROUTE MAPPING AND NAVIGATION RESOURCES

RESPECT THE RIDE TRAIL SAFETY AND RESPONSIBLE RIDING

2 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

MINNESOTA SNOWMOBILING

Minnesota Snowmobiling DESTINATIONS is published annually by Midwest Sports Publishing Network 6595 Edenvale Blvd Ste 180 Eden Prairie MN 55346 (952) 473-7870 • Volume Winter Season MSPN Staff Joel Mellenthin President Rachyl Burzinski Editor Corey Friesen Art Director Paula Jones Copy Editor Joel Mellenthin Dwain Stadie Rachyl Burzinski Sales Associates C.J. Ramstad Photo Archives All contents are copyright ©2025 by MSPN Reproduction of any part or whole of this publication in any form or by any mechanical or electronic means, including information and data retrieval systems, is prohibited except by written consent of the Publisher.

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2025-2026 Minnesota Destinations MODERN MAPPING 4 Find your way with the latest navigation tech from Arctic Cat, Polaris, Ski-Doo, and OnX—smart tools built to keep every ride on track.

NORTHEAST 6 Ride early or ride late — the Iron Range, North Shore, and vast wilderness make Northeastern Minnesota unforgettable.

NORTHWEST 12 Ride through Paul Bunyan’s homeland, where deep forests and open prairies tell the story of snowmobiling’s beginnings.

CENTRAL 14 Home to more snowmobilers than anywhere else, Central Minnesota blends famous northern lakes with scenic southern bluffs.

SOUTH 15 Experience a different side of Minnesota. Explore Southern Minnesota’s mix of winding rivers and wide-open trails—ideal for chasing new snow.

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Winter 2025-26 3

WHERE TECHNOLOGYMEETS THE TRAIL F

ew places embrace winter quite like Minnesota. With over 22,000 miles of marked, groomed, and connected snowmobile trails, Minnesota easily ranks among the world’s top snowmobiling destinations. Yet, it’s not just the miles of trail that make the state exceptional—it’s the combination of breathtaking scenery, friendly communities, and a deep passion for the sport that truly sets it apart.

Home to two of the four major snowmobile manufacturers and host to major events like the Midwest Ride-In, Hay Days, and the Blackwoods Blizzard Tour charity ride, Minnesota proudly holds its title as a snowmobiler’s paradise.

While it’s impossible to showcase every single trail, destination, and event, this guide provides an overview designed to help you plan your next snowmobiling adventure. With such an extensive network, there are several ways to navigate Minnesota’s trails—from traditional printed maps to modern digital tools. Using both together ensures you won’t miss out on any must-see routes and keeps you updated on recent changes or reroutes.

To find the most current printed trail maps, check with local chambers of commerce, tourism offices, or nearby businesses in your chosen riding area. At the same time, smartphone apps have become increasingly popular among riders. On the next page, you’ll find a few top recommendations, including Ride Command, Garmin, and OnX. Digital maps and other resources are also available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) website.

STAY ON TRAIL Designated trails are widely recognized as the safest and most reliable places to ride. Across Minnesota, local snowmobile clubs take on the important job of signing, grooming, and maintaining much of the trail network. Most of these trails cross private land, where landowners generously grant clubs permission to establish and care for the routes.

It’s essential to respect this generosity by remaining on the marked trails and avoiding shortcuts or trespassing.

In addition to designated trails, snowmobilers in Minnesota are permitted to ride within the roadside ditches of state and county roads—either along the outer slope of the right-of-way or at the bottom of the ditch. When doing so, it’s crucial to stay alert for oncoming vehicles, driveways, and potential obstacles like culverts or drainage features that may not be immediately visible. Staying cautious and respectful ensures that both riders and landowners continue to enjoy a safe and cooperative snowmobiling environment.

4 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

Photo: Wayne Davis RESPONSIBLE RIDING Show the same level of respect for snowmobile trails that you would for any public roadway. Always keep to the right, follow posted signs and speed limits (the statewide maximum is 50 mph, and slower speeds apply on designated lakes), and ride only as fast as conditions safely allow. Maintain ample space between sleds, avoid stopping in blind curves or in the middle of the trail, and give yourself plenty of distance to react and stop when needed.

Stay aware of your surroundings, and be prepared for icy patches, uneven surfaces, or unexpected obstacles along the way. Riding under the influence of alcohol is never acceptable—snowmobiling requires quick judgment and coordination, and even slight impairment can lead to serious accidents. Remember, a DUI on a snowmobile carries the same penalties as one on the road and can impact your driver’s license.

Clear communication is also an important part of safe riding. Many snowmobilers use hand signals to indicate turns, stops, and the number of riders in their group. A simple raised hand isn’t just a friendly gesture—it’s a vital signal that helps keep everyone safe.

For more detailed information on snowmobile safety and regulations, visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) website and search for “snowmobiling.”

NEW TO SNOWMOBILING? HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW • Snowmobile Safety Course: Anyone born after December 31, 1976, must complete a snowmobile safety training course to operate a sled in Minnesota legally. This course isn’t just a requirement—it’s a valuable resource for riders of all experience levels. It covers essential safety practices, trail etiquette, and operation basics to help ensure every ride is a safe one. To learn more or to get started, visit dnr.state. mn.us/safety/vehicle/snowmobile.

An additional online program is available through saferiderssafetyawareness.org, offering another convenient option for riders to complete their training.

• Guided Rides: Many resorts that rent snowmobiles also provide guided trail rides and full gear rentals, including helmets, boots, and jackets. For new riders, this is one of the best ways to get comfortable with a

snowmobile, learn about proper equipment use, and experience Minnesota’s trail system with the guidance of an expert.

• Contact a Club: Local snowmobile clubs are an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more or explore new areas. Members are often eager to introduce newcomers to their favorite routes and share valuable riding tips. A great way to thank them—and to support trail maintenance efforts—is by joining the club yourself. You can find a complete list of Minnesota snowmobile clubs, organized by county, at mnsnowmobiler.org.

CONNECTED TRAILS: NAVIGATION FOR TODAY’S RIDER ON-X OnX began as a hunting app focused on displaying public and private land boundaries along with access information. Over time, it has grown into one of the most versatile outdoor adventure mapping platforms available—now offering a dedicated version tailored for snowmobilers. The OnX Offroad app allows users to easily toggle between dirt and snow routes, making it simple to locate trails, plan and save custom routes, and track your ride from start to finish.

Polaris Ride Command Polaris led the way in developing digital trail mapping, becoming the first manufacturer to introduce this technology to snowmobilers.

After more than a decade of refinement, Ride Command has earned its reputation as one of the most popular and reliable digital mapping tools available. Along with detailed trail maps, it allows you to track

other riders, plan and share routes, and stay connected while out on the trail. Best of all, Ride Command can be used on your smartphone, through the website, or directly on an in-vehicle display, providing easy access wherever your ride takes you.

ARCTIC CAT G8/GARMIN The Arctic Cat G8 display comes with integrated Garmin mapping, allowing users to preload trails that feature points of interest like restaurants, gas stations, and campgrounds. The maps offer layered views that include topography, public and private lands, along with other various features.

BRP GO Similar to Ride Command, the BRP GO! digital mapping app can be accessed on your smartphone, online, or directly through equipped Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles. Developed in partnership with local snowmobile clubs and associations, the app provides up-to-date trail information and highlights nearby points of interest.

With BRP GO!, riders can plan routes, follow turn-byturn navigation, and easily find scenic overlooks, lodging, restaurants, and other great stops along the way. .

WILDERNESS SNOWMOBILING ON THE GUNFLINT TRAIL It’s a wild place here. You could see moose, wolves, fox and deer...but not too many other people. Trails start just outside your cabin door. All services, food and lounge within a mile.

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NORTHeast Photo: Wayne Davis

Chasing Snow: Minnesota's Must-Ride Trails

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hether you’re a veteran rider or just getting into the sport, Minnesota’s Northeast region is a snowmobiling destination you don’t want to miss. Known for its early and reliable snowfall, this area often boasts rideable trails long before other regions see their first flakes. But it’s not just the snow that makes it special—it’s also home to one of America’s most scenic stretches of shoreline, the legendary North Shore.

North Shore The North Shore, with its cozy towns and beautiful rock formations, is a place worth visiting all year—but it’s especially magical in winter.

Lake Superior helps create some of the best snow in the

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6 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

state. When cold winds blow across the lake, they pick up moisture and drop heavy lake-effect snow on the tree-covered hills of Minnesota’s northeast corner.

Snowmobiling season usually runs from December 1, through the end of March, giving riders a long stretch to enjoy the trails. The famous CJ Ramstad North Shore Trail runs along the edge of Lake Superior and offers an amazing ride with very few road crossings and plenty of chances to see wildlife. You can ride the whole trail in one day, but many riders like to break it up into parts so they can take their time and really enjoy the beauty of the Arrowhead region.

Iron Range Heading inland, the Iron Range is home to some of Minnesota’s most exciting and well-loved snowmobile trails. While the mining days are mostly behind it, this area now shines with small-town charm and friendly locals who love winter riding.

The people here take pride in their trails, which are some of the best groomed and clearly marked in the state.

The Iron Range sits in the middle of more than 2,000 miles of snowmobile trails, including the famous Arrowhead State Trail and Taconite State Trail. Riders can cruise through the Superior National Forest and experience everything from smooth straightaways to fun twists and turns. The trails are kept in top shape by dedicated groomers, and it’s easy to ride right into nearby towns like Hibbing, Chisholm, Virginia, Eveleth, Gilbert, Biwabik, Hoyt Lakes, and more—each offering great trailside bars, restaurants, and hotels to stop and warm up.

The Arrowhead and Taconite trails are the main routes through this area. The Taconite Trail stretches 165 miles from Grand Rapids to

Ely and is shared by snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, dogsled teams, and fat-tire bikers. It winds through quiet wetlands, snowy birch and spruce forests, and across frozen lakes and streams.

At the north end, the Taconite connects with the David Dill Arrowhead Trail, which runs 135 miles from International Falls to Tower and offers several cozy trail shelters along the way. The Aurora Trail, about 25 miles long, links Biwabik and Hoyt Lakes,

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passing two mine pits and a historic CCC camp. A spur to the north leads to the deep snow and rolling hills of the Giants Ridge area— perfect for riders looking for a little more challenge.

Voyageurs Finally, the far Northeast corner of Minnesota holds some of the most remote and rugged wilderness in the contiguous United States. The Voyageurs area is a favorite among snowmobilers for its beautiful scenery, peaceful trails, and the warm hospitality found at nearby resorts and lodges.

This region offers a one-of-a-kind riding experience across wideopen terrain and quiet backcountry trails. Whether you’re winding through the single-track Chain of Lakes Trail, tackling the curves of

8 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

the Arrowhead Trail, or gliding across the frozen waterways of the Voyageur Trail, you’re following in the footsteps of early loggers and fur traders who once explored this wild country.

When the lakes freeze and the snow glows under the moonlight, a nighttime ride here is something special. On clear evenings, you might catch the northern lights dancing across the sky — a sight few places in the lower 48 can match.

Voyageurs National Park is one of the rare national parks that allows snowmobiling, and the tradition runs deep.

Snowmobile use has been part of the park’s history since it was founded, giving riders a truly unique way to experience Minnesota’s winter magic.

300+ miles of snowmobile trails from the Mississippi River through the Chippewa National Forest and on the Taconite Trail.

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Winter 2025-26 9

Trails wind through forests and glide over lake surfaces throughout Voyageurs National Park. The gateway communities of Crane Lake, Orr, Ash River, Kabetogama, International Falls, Ranier and Rainy Lake provide bases for your excursions into the National Park. You will find near pristine wilderness cloaked in the stillness of winter. Voyageurs was established because of the spectacular scenery, rich natural resources and vibrant history of this important piece of the north American waterways. You will not be disappointed.

Each gateway community will have options for food, fuel and lodging. The trails will be clearly marked and well-groomed with staked trails to mark the lake surface portions. Any of the communities would be glad to send you a map. They appear in the advertising adjacent.

10 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

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NORTHwest

SEE MINNESOTA IN MOTION - EVERY TRAIL TELLS A STORY

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hat makes Minnesota such a favorite snowmobiling destination is how different each part of the state is.

From north to south and east to west, you’ll find all kinds of terrain. The Northwest shows that perfectly — thick forests cover the east side, while wide-open prairie stretches out as you head west.

This region is also where Minnesota snowmobiling began. In Roseau, brothers Edgar and Allen Hetteen and their friend David Johnson started building snow machines in their small shop. Their work led to the first Sno-Traveler and the start of Polaris, named after the North Star. Later, Edgar also helped found Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls. Both companies still welcome visitors for factory tours — and yes, you can ride your sled right up to the door! Just call ahead to check tour times.

towns, lodges, and resorts, too. Ice fishing is huge in this area — Lake of the Woods and Upper Red Lake offer some of the best fishing in the state, with guides and resorts ready to help.

The Northwest is also Paul Bunyan country. Statues and landmarks celebrating him and his blue ox, Babe, can be found throughout the lake region. Park Rapids sits at the center of it all — a favorite stop for snowmobilers with great food, lodging, and hospitality.

Water plays a significant role here as well. You can ride almost right up to the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park, then take a short walk to see where the river begins its 2,552-mile trip to the Gulf of Mexico. Don’t forget to grab a photo by the old headwaters sign from the 1930s!

Because it’s so far north, the Northwest gets cold and snowy early and keeps it that way long after other parts of the state start melting. While others are still waiting for trails to open, this area is already grooming and riding. If you want to rack up miles on smooth trails without much traffic, this is the place to go.

At the southern end of the region, Alexandria and Detroit Lakes are bustling snowmobile hubs with numerous accommodations available. The trail between them can get busy, but western Otter Tail County has quieter routes through towns like Pelican Rapids, Elizabeth, and Rothsay — together offering nearly 500 miles of trails.

Here, you’ll find everything from groomed ditches and frozen lake routes to quiet wooded trails. There are plenty of welcoming

Other parks worth checking out include Maplewood State Park, near Pelican Rapids. This 9,000-acre park has high, rolling hills that

12 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

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rise 300 feet above the farmland below, formed by glaciers during the last ice age. It sits along the edge of the Alexandria Moraine, making it a unique ride.

Another highlight is Inspiration Peak, near Urbank. Ride to the top for a beautiful view of the area. Author F. Scott Fitzgerald once said the lakes below looked like “sequins fallen on an old paisley shawl.”

Standing 1,750 feet high, it’s one of the tallest points in Minnesota and the highest in Otter Tail County.

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central Photo: Wayne Davis

THE CENTER OF IT ALL: LAKES, BLUFFS, AND THE HEART OF MINNESOTA SNOWMOBILING

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t first glance, the Central Region of Minnesota seems to revolve around the ever-expanding Minneapolis–St. Paul metro area. While the “Twin Cities” certainly make their presence known, they’ve also helped shape a snowmobiling hub that regularly captures attention far beyond state lines.

Once you break free from the concrete and head north, the scenery changes fast. Trails begin to wind through the countryside, leading to Elk River, the “river city” and home of ERX Motor Park—a 400-acre playground for motorsports enthusiasts. This venue is the site of the famous Midwest Ride-In, the largest antique, vintage, and classic snowmobile gathering in the world.

Every year on the last weekend of January, thousands of riders come together for vintage sled displays, trail rides, races, and a massive swap meet. It’s as much a social celebration as it is a showcase of snowmobile history, with bonfires burning late into the night.

Further north, Mille Lacs, Minnesota’s second-largest lake, offers an unforgettable experience for those who love both snowmobiling and ice fishing. Although no official snowmobile trails cross the frozen expanse, a full loop around its shoreline makes for a

14 Minnesota Snowmobiling Destinations

beautiful 100-mile ride. Trails near the eastern shore connect to diverse routes that wind through the area, but the true highlight awaits in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.

Inside the park, trails weave through wooded ridges, pass along Shakopee Lake, and follow the upper course of the Rum River as it begins its twisting path toward the Mississippi.

Heading east, riders can follow the Soo Line South Trail, a 114-mile route leading toward Hinckley. Along the way, you’ll encounter the Red Top Trails, a collection of old logging paths perfect for exploring. This region—bordered by the Mississippi River to the east—is one of the few corners of Minnesota untouched by ancient glaciers, giving it a distinctive, rolling landscape.

Instead of the flat terrain found elsewhere, you’ll discover gentle hills, wooded bluffs, and quiet creeks winding through farmland. These natural contours make the trails rise and fall like waves beneath your sled. With a fresh coat of snow, the Central Region transforms into one of the most enchanting and diverse snowmobiling destinations in the entire Upper Midwest.

south

To make the most of riding in the south, flexibility is key. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, have your sleds ready to load, and be prepared to chase fresh snowfall. Storm chasers—those who track new snow to claim the first tracks—often find Southern Minnesota to be one of their favorite destinations for that reason.

Among the highlights of the region are the historic Casey Jones Trail, one of Minnesota’s first officially designated state trails, named after the famed railroad engineer, and the Blazing Star State Trail, which stretches from Albert Lea Lake through Myre-Big Island State Park and is set to connect to Austin.

Another gem is the Glacial Lake Trail, a 22-mile multi-use route

@VisitFairmontMN linking Willmar, Spicer, New London, and Hawick. It’s a beautiful ride that showcases the many lakes scattered throughout the region—making Southern Minnesota a hidden treasure for snowmobilers seeking variety and charm.

Photo: Wayne Davis

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA: A SNOWMOBILER'S HIDDEN GEM

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hile many riders instinctively head north in search of prime snowmobiling conditions, venturing off the beaten path can lead to even more rewarding adventures. That’s especially true in Minnesota’s Southern Region. Though the trail network here isn’t as vast as up north, local clubs take great pride in maintaining some of the state’s most well-groomed and scenic routes.

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The Minnesota River, which cuts a striking “V” through the heart of the region, adds to the area’s natural beauty. Trails wind through river bottoms and wooded bluffs that rise above the floodplain, offering an abundance of wildlife and peaceful views.

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