Whether you enjoy a ride cruising over deep powder, dodging through the trees, or climbing the hills, Minnesota is the place for snowboarding action. This winter, check out new destinations or revisit some old favorites here in the North Star State.
Below, we highlight three of our favorite local Minnesota snowmobiling hot spots for sledders. Are any of these on your list?
1. Willard Munger Trail
Hinkley, Minnesota
Located just an hour from the busy suburbs of the Twin Cities deep in the Minnesota woodlands, Willard Munger Trail spans 70 miles from the trailhead in Hinckley north to Duluth on Lake Superior. This popular destination is perfect for riders who enjoy the long haul on flatter terrain. Several well-maintained club feeder trails crisscross in and out of Willard Munger, so you'll have endless options that keep you from planning the same trip twice.
There's plenty of landscape to take in. Some of the more popular scenic areas include the Soo Line Trail, Moose Lake, Willow River, and the Mille Lacs Lake area. Best of all, you'll never have to worry about getting lost or running out of fuel. There are plenty of mile markers along the trail and fuel and food stops to feed both your snowmobile and your appetite. Whether you’re a novice or this is your tenth trip down the trail, there is always something new to do and see at Willard Munger Trail.
North Shore State Trail
Duluth, Minnesota
Aptly named for one of Minnesota’s greatest snowmobile riders, promoters, and preservationists, the C.J. Ramstad/North Shore State Trail stretches 146 miles from Duluth to Grand Marais in some of Minnesota’s most stunning countryside. You can enjoy a panoramic vista on the ridgeline with Lake Superior on one side and the remote Minnesota forest on the other.
Snowmobile extremists will get excited when taking on the rugged terrain for the first time. There's also plenty of relaxing snow surface for beginners or sledders who just want to cruise up and down the trail. The North Shore offers wide open access to club trails and plenty of communities along the way for breaks and gassing up. Since much of the path is remote, don't be surprised if you spot Minnesota's most untamed wildlife. You may encounter native wildlife, such as moose, deer, bear, fox, raptors, grouse, waterfowl, songbirds, and timber wolves. Along with all the wildlife, you may also observe activities that are historically significant to Minnesota such as logging, farming, and even wildlife and fish management.
Soo Line South Trail
Royalton, Minnesota
By the time winter arrives, Old Man Winter dumps at least a foot of snow over the Soo Line South Trail, making it just right for sledders who want to lay down first tracks in the zone. The expansive 126-miles commence at Saunders Junction in Superior Wisconsin and winds its way southwesterly into Royalton, Minnesota.
Of our three picks, the Soo Line South Trail may actually be the most scenic. Riders can experience a blend of wilderness, farmland, and trestle crossings at both Kettle River and Birch Creek. One of the best features of the Soo Line South Trail is its versatility. When you’re done snowboarding in the winter, you can bring out your ATV, mountain bike, and horses throughout the year or just supertramp it deep in the remote area with a nice long hike.
There’s plenty to do and see along the trail, as visitors have quick access to Mille Lacs Kathio State Park near the trail center. The park features bathroom facilities and camper and cabin rentals. There are also opportunities for dining and lodging.
No matter which snowmobile excursion you choose the winter, you'll want to come time and again to re-experience some of Minnesota's most scenic and adventure-filled snowmobile trails. Before you plan your excursion, make sure you contact each destination to find out about safety requirements, amenities, and maps, as well as licensing or registration requirements.
Don’t forget to gear up for your ride! Browse our inventory of snowmobile gear and accessories, or stop in to our showroom to get suited up.
