When it comes to winter activities, Minnesota is the place to experience it all. From ice fishing to snowmobiling, once the snow hits, there’s unlimited fun to be had. One activity that gets you into the outdoors for some unique travel and immersed into the Minnesota wilderness is hitting the cross country ski trails! So bundle up, because we want to introduce you to an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Finding Cross Country Ski Trails in Mille Lacs
Minnesota is home to a plethora of hiking trail networks that turn into snow-covered trails for a different style of traverse – cross country skiing. The miles of once lush and vibrant nature trails setup for hiking boots morph into sparkling winter wonderlands fit for skis and snowshoes. It’s not hard to find places to go cross country skiing, but there are a couple areas around Lake Mille Lacs that offer some great cross country ski trails.
Father Hennepin State Park has roughly 5 miles of trails for those that prefer the trail less traveled as these cross country ski trails are not groomed, creating a challenge for those looking to push the limits. You won’t need a ski pass for these trails and there is a trail shelter for warming up by a wood burning stove. This is a great adventure for those looking for more of a rugged outing.
The top rated cross country ski trails are found at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park with about 20 miles of groomed trails winding through the lake country. If you don’t have your own skis, there are rentals available as well as a trail center with everything you need to warm up and take care of your needs throughout the day. These trails are well-maintained and a favorite among locals and visitors alike that want to get outside and experience the Minnesota winter firsthand. You will need a ski pass for these trails.
Cross Country Ski Lake Adventures
Though many of the cross country ski trails wind through wooded areas that are fantastic for bird watching, experiencing nature, and traversing a variety of terrain, there are trails that give you breathtaking views of the lake. Each winter, Lake Mille Lacs freezes over and local resorts in Minnesota create ice roads that create an interesting patchwork across the surface. Certain trails offer a birdseye view of the lake to get a panoramic view of all the different activities commencing below. Some will even take their skis to the lake’s ice roads to explore the frozen landscape, we just suggest being aware of traffic as there will be vehicles and snowmobiles traveling along the same routes.
Easy Trail Access from Resorts in Minnesota
When going on any adventure, convenience is typically key to deciding where you are looking to stay in the area. If you are looking for someplace with easy access to the lake, cozy accommodations, a hop and skip from miles of cross country ski trails, and plenty of amenities and activities to choose from, The Red Door Resort is the perfect match. Get the full Minnesota winter experience with ice fishing, winter hikes, cross country skiing, and so much more! Your next Minnesota winter adventure awaits on Lake Mille Lacs.
