Brainerd:
a Snowmobiling Mecca by Joel Kunz
The local snowmobile clubs provide maps and there is plenty of information available online. The following is a list of “trail towns” and mileage provided by paulbunyantrail.com.
Not just a summertime family vacation destination, Brainerd is a great place to enjoy winter activities and has resources for every winter activity imaginable. Brainerd is a city in Crow Wing County, Minnesota with a population of 14,395 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat, and one of northern Minnesota’s largest cities. Located at the south end of the vast Paul Bunyan Trail, Brainerd is a perfect destination when planning a snowmobiling outing or vacation. Conveniently located in central Minnesota, the Brainerd Lakes area is easy to get to but hard to leave.
Brainerd, MN Mile 0.0 While not located on the trail, Brainerd is the largest city in the trail region, and is located where the trail begins. Brainerd has many services likely to be sought out by trail users. Photo: Mark Kavanaugh
The Paul Bunyan State Trail with its connecting snowmobile trails are a one-of-a-kind resource with endless miles of groomed riding trails that are just right for any level of enthusiast. It has everything a snowmobiler could want in a snowmobile vacation—from beginner to advanced, the Paul Bunyan Snowmobile Trail has something to offer. Weave your way from Brainerd on the south end to Bemidji on the north. Passing through many communities along the way, you’ll always find the perfect place to stop for lunch or dinner and fill your gas tank. If you’re planning a Minnesota winter snowmobiling vacation in the Brainerd Lakes Area, the Paul Bunyan Trail has beautiful and affordable lodging possibilities en route, with over 14 “trail towns” located on the trail. With the vast amount of lodging possibilities available, you won’t find it hard to accommodate what you are looking for; from family vacations, family reunions, girls or guys weekend getaways, as well as a romantic weekend for two! After a long and exhilarating day on a Minnesota snowmobile trail, there’s nothing like curling up in front of a warm fire and relaxing or enjoying dinner at one of the area’s great restaurants.
Baxter, MN Mile 0.0 The southern Trail Head is located in Baxter at the trail’s intersection with Excelsior Road. There is a 150-car lot across the street at the Northland Arboretum! Merrifield, MN Mile 9.0 Merrifield Lions shelter has public bathrooms, as does the North Long Lake public access, which has a large parking lot as well. Nisswa/Lake Hubert, MN Mile 14.8 Located just south of Nisswa is Lake Hubert. The Lake Hubert rest stop has an information board and benches. Nisswa has public restroom facilities adjacent to the trail, housed in the same building as the Chamber of Commerce.
New to snowmobiling and interested in something fun in the outdoors? Travel light and rent your winter gear from one of the many local businesses specializing in snowmobile rental. Many of the Brainerd winter rental companies even have a selection of boots, gloves, and winter snow gear to keep you comfortable while enjoying your new favorite winter activity. 24
Minnesota Snowmobiling
Photo: Mark Kavanaugh
