Bally Creek Ski Trails
A multiple short loop cross country ski trail system with several access points.
The connector trail to the Norpine/Cascade State Park trails will be groomed to the access at Cook County 45 and ungroomed from Cook County 45 south to the Norpine/Cascade State Park trails. You will need to be prepared for backcountry ski conditions on the ungroomed portion of this trail.
Heavy snows will limit grooming some trails..
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Safety
You have the responsibility to be adequately prepared for a trip in the forest with
- good footwear,
- ample water,
- emergency supplies, and
- sufficient time to make the trip.
You should be self sufficient: there is no cell phone coverage, and due to the nature of the trail, there is no easy way to get assistance in, nor any easy way to get people out in emergencies.
Travel
- A compass and accurate map are essential.
- Bring reliable maps. Maps can be purchased at some Forest Service offices, area businesses and outfitters, or directly from the map companies.
- If you get lost, don’t panic. Sit down, relax and think. Chances are that you will figure out your location in a few minutes.
- If you plan to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for navigating, be sure you also bring a map and compass as a back up in case your GPS unit fails.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for every kind of weather situation.
Georeferenced Bally Creek Ski Trails Map (PDF)
Note: Georeferenced PDF (GeoPDF or Avenza) maps are digital maps made to download and use with geolocation wayfinding apps such as Avenza. Once downloaded into a phone or digital device, a wayfinding app can place a dot on the map right where you are, even without a cell or wifi connection.
Digital maps are not intended as primary sources of navigation. Always bring a hard copy map with you. Batteries will go dead, especially in cold weather.
Purchase of the Great Minnesota Ski Pass is required. Funds from this pass go directly to maintenance and grooming of the trails.
When visiting, please remember
- Trails are for non-motorized use only.
- Only use facilities that are provided.
Pets/Dogs
- Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife.
Address: 2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604
Phone: (218) 387-1750
Hours: October 1, 2025-April 30, 2026, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. No BWCAW permit issuance and no Eastern National Forests Interpretative Association retail sales products. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
Getting There
Parking
The main access is a parking area off of FR 158 just short of Bear Track Camp.
Directions
The main access is from the south.
- Get on County 7 either from Grand Marais or from MN61 south of Grand Marais.
- Take County 48 a very short distance to FR 18 Bally Creek Road.
- Take FR 158 to the large parking lot on the left side of the road, just short of the rental cabins.
- The small parking area with the arch over the trail is for cabin users only; if you find yourself there, please turn around and park in the main lot.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service
