WINTER RECREATION

Winter

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WINTER ACTIVITIES

Cross-Country Skiing

Miles of well-groomed trails await your skinny skis. Try the trails at Cowling Arboretum at Carleton College, River Bend Nature Center, or Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.

Ice Skating and Hockey

Indoor open skating is available at the Northfield Ice Arena from November through March. Outdoor facilities can be found at five city parks, Northfield High School and Carleton and St. Olaf colleges.

Sledding hills on either side of the Cannon River

Most folks are aware of the two prestigious colleges that anchor Northfield’s east side (Carleton College) and west side (St. Olaf College). But did you know both colleges sport outstanding hills for premium sledding? For years, locals have taken advantage of the easy-to-access hills to wear out their kids and get the best sledding south of the river. Head over to Old Main at St. Olaf (off of Lincoln St. S.) or Bell Field at Carleton (east side of campus) to sled the winter away. Enjoy it while you can, because the trek up the hills will catch up with you.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing trails are abundant when snow conditions are right. The natural lands at St. Olaf College and the Arboretum at Carleton College are great spots right in town, or head out to nearby Caron Park, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, or River Bend Nature Center. Snowshoe rentals available from

The Gear ReSource

201 Railway St. N., Dundas 507.407.4327 thegearresource.com

Snowmobiling

Believe it or not, a snowmobiler can travel all the way to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula from Northfield! But we recommend sticking to the 42.5-mile Waterford Trail that begins at Sechler Park and winds through scenic forests, open fields and pastures. facebook.com/Waterford-WarriorsSnowmobile-Club