XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

Skiing and Snowshoeing

The sound of skis gliding through the trees across new snow and the scent of balsam while rushing down hills are some of what visitors will experience skiing on the Chippewa National Forest. There are more than 373 miles of non-motorized trails on Forest that are perfect for skiing and snow shoeing. These trails give skiers a sense of the diversity of the Forest, whether in the birches of Suomi Hills or hilltops and wetlands of Shingobee. Some cross-country trails may require a ski pass. Skiers are advised to inquire at national forest offices about local conditions and to bring area maps, drinking water, warm emergency clothing, and high calorie snacks.

* Dog sledding is not allowed on groomed cross country ski trails on the Chippewa National Forest. Dog sledding is allowed on trails not groomed for skiing and on unplowed forest roads.
As with any activity on the Chippewa National Forest a reminder to “Leave No Trace”.

Winter Spots to Visit:

Shingobee Recreation Area

The Shingobee Recreation Area is nestled along the rolling hills of the Shingobee River Valley five miles southwest of Walker, Minn., along State Highway 34. Shingobee offers six miles (9.4 km) of cross-country skiing trails in the heart of Minnesota's Northwoods. These ski trails are intermediate to advanced and groomed intermittently (single-track) through the winter. But Shingobee is best known for sledding. The chalet is available for community group use.

Suomi Hills

The remote setting of the Suomi Hills area is graced with rolling hills and clear lakes. Suomi Hills is located about nine miles south of Marcell, Minn., and 14 miles north of Grand Rapids, Minn., off State Highway 38, along the Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway. Suomi is one of the most popular cross-country trails for intermediate and advanced skiers. The trails are groomed and track-set.

Migizi Trail

The Migizi trail is located four miles east of Cass Lake. The trail section through Norway Beach is groomed only for special winter events at the visitor center. All levels of skiers will enjoy skiing through the red and white pines in the Norway Beach Recreation Area. The gentle terrain and beautiful forest along the Migizi around Pike Bay makes for a great day of skiing or snowshoeing.

Simpson Creek

The 13-mile Simpson Creek Trail system is located on State Highway 46, about 17 miles northwest of Deer River, Minn. Access to the trail can be gained at the Cut Foot Sioux Visitor Center off Highway 46 or off Eagle Nest Road (FR 2198).

Trout Lake, Joyce Estate

Trout Lake semi-primitive non-motorized area is located one mile east of Hwy 38, 16 miles south of Marcell. Start at the parking area off Co. 335, south of Trout Lake. This short three-mile groomed trail ends at the historic Joyce Estate, a 1920s Adirondack-style estate. Interpretive signs tell the story of this lumber baron’s retreat.

Lost Forty
Visitors can strap on snowshoes and enjoy a one-mile self-guided trail that winds its way through the majestic pines of the Lost Forty. Most of the mature red and white pines are found on the east end of the Lost Forty. These trees are up to 350 years old and between 22 and 48 inches in diameter.