Minnesota’s Complete Off-Road Trails and Riding Area Guide
MINNESOTA
2012
ATVentures RIDE ON! 93 Top Trails, Parks and State Forests
INSIDE!
• Destination Locators • Maps, Distances & Difficulty • Terrain, Scenery & Wildlife • Parking / Trail Heads / Services • Seasons / Vehicles Allowed PLUS Where to stay and what to do!
Safety Training Requirements Ages 11-15: Training is available to youth ages 11-15. (Certificate is valid when student turns 12 years of age.) Must complete the ATV CD and attend and pass the ATV Safety Training class. Class information can be found at www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/vehicle/atv/index.html. Ages 16 and Older: Anyone who operates an ATV and is born after July 1, 1987 must complete the ATV CD Training Course before operating an ATV. Contact the DNR Information Center to receive a copy at 888-646-6367 or 651-296-6157.
Copyright © 2012, State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources Reprinted with Permission
State Forests Badoura, Battleground, Bear Island, Beltrami Island, Big Fork, Birch Lakes, Blackduck, Bowstring, Buena Vista, Burntside, Chengwatana, Cloquet Valley, Crow Wing, Daughters of the American Revolution, Emily, Finland, Fond Du Lac, Foot Hills, General C.C. Andrews, George Washington, Golden Anniversary, Grand Portage, Hill River, Huntersville, Insula Lake, Kabetogama, Koochiching, Lake Isabella, Lake Jeanette, Lake of the Woods, Land O’Lakes, Lost River, Lyons, Mississippi Headwaters, Nemadji, Northwest Angle, Pat Bayle, Paul Bunyan, Pillsbury, Pine Island, R J D Memorial Hardwood, Red Lake, Remer, Rum River, Sand Dunes, Savanna, Smokey Bear, Smoky Hills, Snake River, Solana, St. Croix, Sturgeon River, Two Inlets, Waukenabo, Wealthwood, Welsh Lake, White Earth, Whiteface River
MINNESOTA
ATVentures
CONTENTS 4 EAST
12 IRON RANGE
7 WEST
14 NORTH
The ever-popular eastern trails, situated along the border of Minnesota not far from the Twin Cities, carry you through state forests and the exquisite scenery along the St. Croix River. Publisher: Joel Mellenthin Associate Publisher: Paula Jones Editorial Director: Cathy Hanson Art Director: Paige Sandvik Advertising Sales: Mark Mastro, Diane Voight Advertising Send all advertising materials to: MSPN Ad Department 7887 Fuller Road #101 Eden Prairie, MN 55433 Phone: 952-473-7870; 800-989-6776 Fax: 952-473-7805 www.mspnads.com The information contained in this publication is not designed for navigational purposes. Its intent is to inform and provide additional sources of information for recreational opportunities. Midwest Sports Publishing Network will be in no way liable for injuries, personal or otherwise, as a result of any and all activities pertaining to the ATV use and the information contained herein. Minnesota ATVentures is published annually. All contents are copyright ©2012 by MSPN. Reproduction of any part or whole of this publication in any form by mechanical or electronic means, including information and data retrieval systems, is prohibited except by the expressed written approval of the publisher. WARNING: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never carry a passenger, except on approved ATVs made specifically for two riders. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Never ride on public roads or pavement. Avoid excessive speeds and stunt driving. Be careful on difficult terrain.
Whether your thing is ATVs, bikes or 4-WDs, the OHV friendly town of Appleton and the Appleton Area Recreation OHV Park are recognized as a premier destination.
8 ARROWHEAD
With miles of scenic trails winding their way through rolling hills and woods, along lakeshores and past scenic overlooks, ATVers can enjoy endless opportunities to ride or relax in the great outdoors.
9 NORTH-CENTRAL
Rich with ore mining history, the Range is now a hotbed of OHV activity. Meander through thick sections of Norway pine, aspen, high ground and bogs or play in the more challenging OHV Recreation Area.
The northern reaches of Minnesota provide over 500 miles of exploration for off-road enthusiasts, with access to food, fuel and lodging all within close proximity to the trailheads.
15 SOUTH
Whether you’re looking for an easy run down a railroad grade or the challenge of narrow single-track routes through tight woods, the 300-plus miles southern trails has have it all.
A multitude of trails awaits you in scenic northcentral Minnesota, from gentle curves through the stunning scenery of the state forests to loops around the abundant lakes in the area.
INDEX STATE FOREST
CAMPGROUND
HISTORIC SITE
WATER
PICNIC AREA
FORT RIPLEY STORE
NON-TRAILS TRAILS CLASS I ATV
PARKING TRAIL SHELTER CLASS I AND II ATV
THE TIN SHED FAMILY CAMPSITE OHM
ORV
Register Your Off-Highway Vehicle All-terrain vehicles (ATV), off-road motorcycles (OHM) and off-road vehicles (ORV) must be registered with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) unless they are registered in another state or country and not in Minnesota for more than 30 days. If a state does not require a registration, it must be registered in Minnesota. All OHVs can be registered at a deputy registrar of motor vehicles office (where automobile licenses are handled) or at the DNR License Bureau in St. Paul. You can also register or renew registrations online at www.mndnr.gov. Many ORVs are licensed for highway use. An ORV license for highway use that is also operated on designated public ORV use areas or trails must have both the regular vehicle license and DNR ORV registration. Non-Resident Trail Passes Non-Minnesota residents operating an ATV on state or Grant-In-Aid trails are required to possess a trail pass. The trail pass does not need to be displayed on the machine, but it must be available for inspection when requested by an officer. The pass is required regardless of the registration status of the machine, and whether registered in Minnesota or another state. Nonresidents do not need a pass if operating on a portion of an ATV trail that is owned by the person or the person’s spouse, child or parent. Duplicate non-resident ATV trail passes are available. The fee for a non-resident ATV trail pass is $21 for one year; duplicates are $2.50. The passes are available through the Electronic License System (ELS). ELS gives you three options for buying licenses: online, by phone or in person. More information is available at www.mndnr.gov.
ATVentures 2012 3
EAST
Chengwatana State Forest OHV Trails Distance: 11.7 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Pine City, go four miles northeast on County Road 9, then nine miles east on County Road 10/Chengwatana Forest Road to parking lot. Season: Open year round, except for designated snowmobile trails December 1 to March 31. Vehicles Allowed:
The 11.7 mile Chengwatana State Forest OHV Trail system is popular for its interesting collection of loops and spurs associated with the Willard Munger State Trail that bisects the main trail area in the forest. Located where the Kettle River and St. Croix River merge on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin, trail users can look forward to rolling terrain, forested uplands and marsh areas.
Chengwatana State Forest
Chengwatana State Forest OHV Trails • Fond du Lac State Forest OHV Trails Gandy Dancer Trail • General C.C. Andrews State Forest OHV Trails Nemadji State Forest OHV Trails • Red Top ATV Trail Soo Pits Trails • St. Croix State Forest OHV Trails • Soo Line South Solana State Forest OHV Trails
Fond du Lac State Forest OHV Trails
Distance: 75 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Cromwell, take Highway 73 north to Krogh Road (Township 122) east two miles to County Road 120. Go north to Ditch Bank Forest Road and east 3.5 miles to Gravel Pit Road parking. Season: Open year round, except for designated snowmobile trails December 1 to March 31. Some of the most varied and interesting Vehicles Allowed:
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Facilities: Pine City: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Moose Lake 218-485-5410
Gandy Dancer Trail Distance: 31.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Hinckley, go east on Highway 48 to north County Road 173 to Tamarack Forest Road. Season: Open year round. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Nickerson: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. Duxbury: food, fuel, restrooms. Danbury, WI: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Moose Lake 218-485-5410
Beginning in Danbury, Wisconsin, and cutting through a portion of Minnesota before driving back into Wisconsin, the Gandy Dancer Trail is open to ATVs, OHMs and ORVs. (Anything over 900 pounds is only allowed on the section between the East Arm Road in the St. Croix State Forest, northward to the Harlis Forest Road in the Nemadji State Forest.) The 31-mile trail, built on an abandoned railroad grade, connects to the St. Croix State Forest OHV Trails and Nemadji State Forest OHV Trails. The forest-covered trail is a popular destination for a wide variety of riders.
4 ATVentures 2012
Facilities: Cromwell: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Moose Lake 218-485-5410
motorized trail riding anywhere can be found in the Fond du Lac State Forest. The 64,000-acre forest area is a complex of wetlands and forest, complemented by several large shallow wild rice lakes, extensive marsh areas and wooded swamp. Trails are located in the northern and southern areas of the forest, with challenging loops connected via forest roads.
General C.C. Andrews State Forest OHV Trails Distance: 39.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Willow River go north on County Road 61 two miles and take a right and head east for two miles and then left (north) to Dago Lake day-use parking area. Season: Open year round, except for designated snowmobile trails December 1 to March 31. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Willow River: food, fuel, restrooms. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Moose Lake 218-485-5410
The General C.C. Andrews State Forest trail system is located near Interstate 35 between the towns of Sturgeon Lake and Willow River. At nearly 40 miles long, the trail is covered with jack and red pine along with stands of birch, aspen and oak. Just a short drive from the Twin Cities, the scenic trail tracks partly along the Willow River and next to the banks of Dago Lake.
Nemadji State Forest OHV Trails
Red Top ATV Trail
Distance: 100 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): To access the Nemadji State Forest OHV -Washington/ Ramsey ATV Club Trails from Nickerson, follow Highway 23 northeast a half-mile and turn right and follow 1.5 miles to Net Lake Forest Road and go about two miles. To access the Straight Arrows Grant-In-Aid OHM Trail from Holyoke, take County Road 145 south to Harlis Road and go 4.5 miles. Season: Open year round except for designated snowmobile trails December 1 to March 31. Vehicles Allowed:
Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Isle, the trailhead is 4.6 miles to the east off the Soo Line South Trail. Season: May 15 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed: Class 2 ATVs allowed on some portions.
This is one of Minnesota’s most popular riding areas. It features the Washington/ Ramsey ATV Club Trail, located in the north-central part of the forest, and the Straight Arrows OHM Trail, in the northeast portion. Trails range from minimum maintenance to narrow singletrack routes through tight woods, with plenty of loops and intersection choices. On the east side, the Nemadji connects to the Gandy Dancer Trail and the St. Croix State Forest OHV Trails to the south. 145
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Facilities: Nickerson: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Moose Lake 218-485-5410
The Red Top ATV Trail is laid out in a series of challenging loops that have developed a reputation for abundant technical backwoods riding and plenty of rocky terrain. Enthusiasts can loop around in this system all day and feel like they’re miles away from civilization, yet it’s a quick ride east to McGrath or west to Isle on the Soo Line South Trail to re-enter populated areas.
Facilities: Isle: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways 320-255-4279 ext. 227 Isle Chamber of Commerce 320-676-8112
TO MCGRATH 65
RED TOP
146 164
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31
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SNAKE RIVER COUNTY PARK (CAMPING)
TO ISLE (PARKING) TO FATHER HENNEPIN STATE PARK (CAMPING) 27
47
65
NEMADJ I STATE FOREST
Cannon Power Sports Cannon Falls 507-263-4532 www.cannonpower.com
Jackson Sports, LLC Jackson 507-847-3977 www.jacksonsports.com
Stacy Do It Best Hardware Stacy 651-462-4342 www.stacyhardware.com
Bristow’s Kawasaki & Polaris St. Cloud 320-253-7878 www.bristowinc.com
Northway Sports East Bethel 763-413-8988 www.northwaysports.com
Tousley Motorsports White Bear Lake 800-TOUSLEY www.tousleymotorsports.com
Frontier Powersports Fergus Falls 218-998-4386 www.frontierpowersports.com
Power Lodge Onamia - 320-532-3860 www.powerlodge.com
Tri-K Sports Maple Plain 763-479-3719 www.tri-ksports.com
Hilltop Sports Hill City 218-697-8188 www.hilltopsport.com
Power Lodge Mora - 320-679-4014 www.powerlodge.com Power Lodge Brainerd - 218-822-3500 www.powerlodge.com
27
Vetter Sales & Service, LLC Kasota 507-934-4628 www.vetterpolaris.com
ATVentures 2012 5
EAST
Soo Pits Trails
Distance: 4.5 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Moose Lake, go a half-mile east on Highway 27. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Moose Lake: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Greg Bernu, Carlton County 218-384-9179
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ET AT ST
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St. Croix State Forest OHV Trails
IL
Distance: 4.5 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Moose Lake, go a half-mile east on Highway 27. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
61
SPRING LAKE
35 61 SOO LINE ATV TRAIL 27
MOOSE LAKE STATE PARK
Riders of the Soo Pits Trails, a former gravel pit, will encounter nearly five miles of loops and spurs that include some rolling terrain and a challenging section here and there that provide a nice variety of riding. Located close to the town of Moose Lake, the Pits is accessible from the Soo Line North Trail making it an attraction for riders looking for an appealing day ride.
Facilities: Genola: food, fuel. Isle: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. Moose Lake: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. Denham: fuel, restrooms. More Information: Aitkin County: Mark Jacobs, 218-927-7364 Mille Lacs/Morrison counties, Russ Nygren, 320-632-0130 Pine County: Terry Peterson, 218-372-3459 Carlton County: Greg Bernu, 218-384-9179
The St. Croix State Forest OHV Trails, situated along the picturesque St. Croix River on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, offer a variety of sights and trails. Riders will enjoy scenic settings, dense forests and rocky sections along this 45 mile trail, plus there is easy access from the Gandy Dancer Trail to the east and from the main trailhead off of Tamarack Forest Road.
Solana State Forest OHV Trails
Soo Line South Distance: 114 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Aitkin, Carlton and Pine counties: Parking is available in the city of McGrath. Mille Lacs and Morrison County: Parking is on the east side of Highway 25 in Genola. Carlton County: Parking is available at the Soo Line Depot in Moose Lake. Parking is available in McGrath, Isle, Genola and Moose Lake. Season: Carlton County: Open year round; Aitkin, Mille Lacs and Pine counties: April 1 to November 30; Morrison County: April 1 to October 31. Moose Lake to Superior, Wisconsin: Open year round. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Moose Lake: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Greg Bernu, Carlton County 218-384-9179
Passing through five Minnesota counties, the 114-mile Soo Line South Trail travels through farmlands, wetlands and woodlands as it follows the former railroad grade. Skirting the southern edge of Mille Lacs Lake, it makes its way eastward from close to Genola nearly to Superior, Wisconsin. Riders can also access the Red Top Trail between Isle and McGrath, as well as the Soo Pits Trail near Moose Lake. The Soo Line South ATV Trail also connects with the 148-mile Soo Line North ATV Trail, southwest of Moose Lake.
Distance: 75 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located 7.5 miles north of McGrath on Highway 65. Season: May 1 to November 30. Vehicles Allowed:
SOLANA STATE FOREST
ARTHYDE
PLINY SOLANA
Facilities: McGrath: food, fuel. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Grand Rapids 218-999-7920
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The 68,000 acre Solana State Forest offers 75 miles of ATV trails, 70 miles of OHM trails and 28 miles of ORV trails. The trails are mostly level with gently rolling terrain and scenic views created by the Snake, Rice and Split Rock rivers. Trails are accessible from the city of McGrath or via the Soo Line South which cuts diagonally across the southeast corner of the forest.
Bee Line Yamaha Superstore Seaberg Power Sports St. Joseph /St. Cloud Detroit Lakes 320-363-1270 218-847-9264 www.beelineyamaha.com www.seabergpowersport.com Century Power Sports Stillwater 651-439-2035 www.centurypower.com
6 ATVentures 2012
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Sette Sports Center Owatonna 507-451-6922 www.settesportscenter.com
St. Boni Motorsports Waldoch Sports Inc. St. Bonifacius Columbus 952-446-1554 651-464-5776 www.stbonimotorsports.com www.waldochsports.com Tousley Motorsports White Bear Lake 800-TOUSLEY www.tousleymotorsports.com
WEST
Appleton Area Recreation OHV Park Distance: 20 miles Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Appleton, go one mile east on Highway 59. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Appleton: Food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Mike Johnson 320-843-5341
The 330-acre Appleton Area Recreation OHV Park opened in 2003 as western Minnesota’s first OHV riding area and was expanded in 2007. It is mostly old railroad line. It is now recognized as a premier destination for all off-road vehicles. Adding to the appeal of the area, the city of Appleton in Swift County is off-road rider friendly, meaning ATVs can travel on posted roads within city limits.
ATVentures 2012 7
ARROWHEAD Red Dot/Moose Walk and Moose Run • Stony Spur II ATV Trail • Soo Line South
Red Dot/Moose Walk and Moose Run Distance: Red Dot: 27.6 miles Moose Walk/Run: 26 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Red Dot: From Beaver Bay the trailhead is located on the north side of Highway 4 a half-mile west of Highway 61. From Silver Bay the trailhead is off Highway 5 on the west side of town. Moose Walk/ Run: From Finland go east on Lake County Highway 7 for two miles to the parking area on the south side of the highway. Season: May 15 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Stony Spur II ATV Trail TO FINLAND
1 402 TETTAGOUCHE ST ATE PARK
4
61 5
Facilities: Silver Bay: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Bill Ylatupa, Trail Administrator - 218-226-4608 MnDNR Trails and Waterways Office, Two Harbors 218-834-1430
Distance: 26 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located just outside downtown Babbitt near the intersection of Highway 21 and Highway 70, one-quarter mile east on the south side of the road near the softball complex. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
SILVER BAY
3
Facilities: Babbitt: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Babbitt ATV and Snowmobile Club 218-827-3504
The 26-mile Stony Spur II ATV Trail begins in Babbitt and goes east just south of Bear Island State Forest and through some of Minnesota’s most remote highland and canyon country. Cruising from Babbitt eastward, riders venture through clusters of giant boulders, cedar and aspen tree stands as well as over streams and rivers. With the trail’s remote location, be sure to pack food, water and fuel.
LAKE SUPERIOR
BEAVER BAY
The scenic Red Dot, Moose Walk and Moose Run trails are hidden jewels of off-road riding in the state. The Red Dot Trail connects Silver Bay and Beaver Bay as it slices through forests with spectacular overlooks. It connects to the northern Moose Walk and Moose Run trails that roll through the Finland State Forest, complete with tall stands of trees and other scenic sights.
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Check out our ATV Packages at: www.americinn.com/hotels/MN/SilverBay
8 ATVentures 2012
ATV’ERS WELCOME ON THE NORTH SHORE Silver Bay, home of the World’s Longest ATV Parade, on June 23, 2012.
100s of miles of well maintained trails through pristine forest and spectacular overlooks. For lodging info: www.heartofthenorthshore.com phone: 218-226-4408 email: info@heartofthenorthshore.com
NORTH-CENTRAL Moose River ATV Trail • Pine Center ATV Trail • Round River Drive ATV Trail/Martineau OHM Trails • Schoolcraft ATV/OHM Trail • Forest Riders ATV Trail Fort Ripley ATV Trail and Ripley Connection • Soo Line North • Spider Lake OHV Trails
Moose River ATV Trail
Pine Center ATV Trail
Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Outing, go seven miles north on Highway 6 and then three-quarters of a mile east on Ben Draper Forest Road. Season: Open Year round. Vehicles Allowed:
Distance: 23 miles Difficulty: Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From junctions County Road 8 and County Road 2 in Pine Center, go 1.6 miles east on County Road 2. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Located within the boundaries of Land O’ Lakes State Forest, the Moose River ATV Trail follows gently rolling terrain through four scenic loops sure to be enjoyed by riders at all skill levels. Dense woods, small lakes and ponds, and the Moose River highlight the start of northern Minnesota’s great pine forest. Campsites are available by White Oak Lake, accessible from the Wren Lake Loop.
Facilities: Food, Fuel, lodging and restrooms are available at the Clinton Converse Campground within the Land O’ Lakes State Forest. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Brainerd - 218-833-8710
506
Harold and Marie Deutsch Wildlife Management Area 138
Pine Center
2
2
8 Whitefish Lake
Facilities: Pine Center: food. More Information: Alex Smude Jr., Trail Administrator 218-764-2281
LAND O’LAKES STATE FOREST
138
Twentytwo Lake 520
Roosevelt Wildlife Management Area
8
161
Platte Lake
20
374
MOOSE RIVER AT V TRAIL
371
393
6
394
The 23-mile long Pine Center ATV Trail, which is rated difficult, is best suited for experienced riders. This trail system rolls through wooded hills and along lakes, with shelters and picnic areas located along the trails where ATV enthusiasts can rest and enjoy the great outdoors. Although located nearby, road ditch riding is necessary to reach the cities of Pine Center and Garrison.
Round River Drive ATV Trail/Martineau OHM Trails
Distance: 29.2 Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): ): From Bemidji, south on U.S. Highway 71, 3 miles west on County Highway 9 crossing the Schoolcraft River, on the south side of Highway 9. Season: May 1 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
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9
9
118
118
118
44
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Facilities: Lake George: food, restroom, lodging More Information: 2606 Madison Ave. SW, Bemidji 218-308-2065
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71 44
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4 205thA ve.
Distance: Round River Drive: 75 miles; Martineau: 105 miles Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Round River Drive: From Martineau OHM Trails, trailhead is 4.5 miles north of Akeley on Highway 64. Martineau OHM Trail: From Walker, go 10 miles west on Highway 34 to Highway 64, then north 5.5 miles to trail marker (loop 1 is on the west and loop 2 is on the east). Season: May 1 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
Schoolcraft ATV/OHM Trail
95 95
Yola 95
Facilities: Martineau OHM Trail parking lot: restrooms. Akeley: food, fuel, restroom, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Bemidji 218-308-2372
2
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The Round River Drive ATV Trail and Martineau OHM Trail, both located within the Paul Bunyan State Forest, provide diverse terrain options for a wide variety of riders. Throughout each trail system, enthusiasts will enjoy a combination of state forest roads and forest trails highlighted by the stunning natural scenery of hills, meadows, moraines, ponds, pothole lakes and dense stands of pines, oaks and more.
71
Paine
Lake George
The 29.2-mile Schoolcraft ATV/OHM trail system is a combination of state forest roads, county forest roads and township, county and state road rights-of-way. It provides enthusiasts with the opportunity to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna within county managed forestlands and the Paul Bunyan State Forest. It also connects with the Forest Riders ATV Trail in Lake George. The trail traverses the Schoolcraft Game Refuge on existing vehicular travel routes, sharing the forest roads, or located in the bottom, benched into the slope, or on extreme edges or ditches of Hubbard County roads.
ATVentures 2012 9
NORTH CENTRAL Forest Riders ATV Trail Cities Edge Motorsports Shakopee 952-224-2054 www.citiesedge.com
Bristow’s Kawasaki Northway Sports St. Boni Motorsports & Polaris East Bethel St. Bonifacius St. Cloud 763-413-8988 952-446-1554 320-253-7878 www.northwaysports.com www.stbonimotorsports.com www.bristowinc.com
Distance: 101 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Highway 71 go three miles west on County Road 41 to Two Inlets Town Hall. Season: May 1 to November 1. Vehicles Allowed:
117 71 ITASCA ST ATE FOREST 122
113
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Facilities: The trails provide connections to services in Two Inlets, Lake Alice, Lake George and Emmaville. Food, fuel, lodging and restrooms available. More Information: Tim Eischens, Trail Administrator 218-732-5235
24 46
40
4
32 71 TWO INLETS STATE PARK
The 101-mile Forest Riders ATV Trail curves through Two Inlets, Smoky Hills and White Earth state forests on a combination of state forest minimum maintenance roads, county forest rights-of-way and some township rights-of-way interspersed with winding trail sections. To the south, it cuts through the Becker County managed forest while to the northeast of Two Inlets State Forest the trail winds through the Hubbard County managed forest.
Fort Ripley ATV Trail and Ripley Connection
Near Paul Bunyan Trail Head • Indoor Pool • Sauna • Jacuzzi • Free Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Free HBO • Handicap Rooms Available • Most Credit Cards Accepted • Lobby with Fireplace Gathering
[218] 829-3080 1-800-634-3444 14466 Dellwood Drive Brainerd/Baxter
Cities Edge Motorsports Shakopee - 952-224-2054 www.citiesedge.com
10 ATVentures 2012
ATV Association of Minnesota
www.atvam.org
Sette Sports Center Owatonna - 507-451-6922 www.settesportscenter.com
Tousley Motorsports White Bear Lake - 800-TOUSLEY www.tousleymotorsports.com
Distance: 22.9 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Little Falls, two miles north on Highway 371. From Brainerd, one mile south. Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Brainerd/Little Falls: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. Camping and picnic facilities available in Crow Wing State Park. More Information: Jim Schilling, Trail Administrator 320-745-2637 or 320-745-2697
The 23-mile Fort Ripley ATV Trail, located near the town of Fort Ripley, winds through oak and pine covered rolling hills near Sebie Lake in part of the Crow Wing County Memorial Forest. It is a spur of the Fort Ripley Connection, which ties together Little Falls and Brainerd. This was the site of some of the first releases of wild turkey in the Brainerd area.
Moose River ATV Trail • Pine Center ATV Trail Round River Drive ATV Trail/Martineau OHM Trails • Schoolcraft ATV/OHM Trail Forest Riders ATV Trail • Fort Ripley ATV Trail and Ripley Connection Soo Line North • Spider Lake OHV Trails
Soo Line North Distance: 148 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located in Lawler, Shovel Lake, Palisade and McGregor. Season: Lawler to Shovel Lake and Shovel Lake to Cass Lake: April 1 to November 30. Moose Lake to Lawler: Aitkin County: April 1 to November 30. Carlton County: Open year round. Vehicles Allowed:
CASS LAKE
2
REMER
371
HILL RIVER STATE FOREST
LAND O’LAKES STATE PARK
6 TO MOOSE LAKE
Facilities: Moose Lake, Lawler, McGregor, Palisade, Swatara, Remer, Federal Dam and Boy River: food, fuel, restrooms. Moose Lake, McGregor and Remer: Lodging. More Information: • Cass County 218-947-3338 • Greg Bernu, Carlton County 218-384-9179 • Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Dept. 218-927-7364
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210
New EXTREME OFF-ROAD ATV/UTV Axles 210
The 148-mile Soo Line North Trail encompasses three sections: from Moose Lake to Lawler, from Lawler to Shovel Lake and from Shovel Lake to 5 miles east of Cass Lake. This former railroad grade features stands of trees, several large bogs and opportunities to ride through portions of the Hill River and Bowstring state forests. The trail also connects with the Soo Line South trail just southwest of Moose Lake.
All New ATV Complete Axles Fully assembled outboard and inboard joints installed on a 4340 chrome-moly steel axle bar. All internal precision ground components are assembled using high-temperature, high load bearing moly grease.
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Spider Lake OHV Trails Distance: ATV only: 14.9 miles; ATV, OHM, ORV: 11.4 miles Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Pine River go 12 miles west on County Road 2 (24th Street SW) and then south 1.5 miles on Spider McKinley Forest Road to parking area. Season: A 14.1-mile section is open for ATV and OHM use all year; another 11.47-mile section is open for ATV, OHM and ORV use from April 1 through November 30. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Pine River: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Brainerd 218-833-8710
The popular 26-mile Spider Lake OHV Trail system loops around lakes and through a forest of mixed trees and other vegetation in Cass County’s Foothills State Forest. Located just west of Pine River and Pequot Lakes in central Minnesota, the trail system provides for the perfect day trip or weekend destination for off-road riders eager to take advantage of the nearby camping accommodations.
Leo’s South Lakeville 952-435-5371 www.leossouth.com
Seaberg Power Sports Detroit Lakes 218-847-9264 www.seabergpowersport.com
Miller Sellner Sleepy Eye 507-794-2131 www.millersellner.com
Snell Powersports & Equipment Mankato 507-304-6786 www.snellpse.com
Northwood Equipment Aitkin 218-927-2140 www.northwoodequipment.com Power Lodge Onamia 320-532-3860 www.powerlodge.com
St. Boni Motorsports St. Bonifacius 952-446-1554 www.stbonimotorsports.com Tousley Motorsports White Bear Lake 800-TOUSLEY www.tousleymotorsports.com
ATVentures 2012 11
RANGE
Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail • Genoa OHV Trail Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area Rabey Line ATV Trail • Thistledew ATV Trail
Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail
Genoa OHV Trail
Distance: 42 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Highway 169 north of Pengilly head south for a half-mile on Highway 65. Trail access is on the right. To the south, access is in Alborn off Highway 7. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Distance: 3.4 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Located in Eveleth at the intersection of U.S. Highway 53 and State Highway 37. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
65
Gillbert
169
Bro
NASHW AUK
Facilities: Eveleth and Gilbert: Food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Iron Range Off Highway Vehicle Recreation Area 218-748-2207
The 3.4-mile Genoa OHV Trails begin at Eveleth just east of the highway 53/37 intersection and ends in Gilbert at the Sherwood Forest Campground. They provide a direct connection between Eveleth and Gilbert in St. Louis County, while traversing the old Genoa mining operation. From Gilbert, riders can access the popular Iron Range Off Highway Vehicle Recreation Area via the Gilbert Trail around Lake Ore-Be-Gone.
adw ay Str eet
Facilities: Pengilly and Meadowlands: food, restroom, fuel. Alborn: food, restrooms. Silica: food. More Information: Margaret Barr, Trail Administrator 218-263-5367
Following an abandoned railroad grade between the cities of Alborn, in St. Louis County, and Pengilly, in Itasca County, the Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail guides riders past the wooded Whiteface River State Forest near Alborn and meanders through open areas and shaded woods with almost no road crossings between the two towns. The Range Riders ATV Club is credited for the development and maintenance of the trail.
PENGILL Y
169 37
7
65
Spa rta
73
MEADOWLANDS
WHITEF ACE RIVER STATE FOREST
Roa
d
Sparta
Eveleth
37 Fayal Road
Point
ALBORN
ding Differ
CLOQUE T VA LLEY STATE FOREST
Road
Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area Distance: 36 miles Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Gilbert, go east on Highway 135 to the entrance on Enterprise Trail. From Highway 53 in the city of Eveleth, exit at the Gilbert/Biwabik interchange onto Highway 37 and follow Gilbert directions above. From I-35 take Highway 33 (exit 237) through Cloquet. Exit Highway 53, north to Highway 37 east, then follow Gilbert directions above. Season: May to October: open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to one hour before sunset. Late November to April: open Friday through Sunday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The recreation area is closed during firearms deer season. Vehicles Allowed:
Minnesota’s premier off-road park, located in the Gilbert area, is well known among enthusiasts for its exquisite varied terrain and boundless opportunities for fun. As a result of active mining until 1981 and the well-planned development of the 1,200 acre site, this recreation area is the ideal setting for spectacular offroad riding for everyone. OHVs must be registered however, there is no charge for admission.
Rabey Line ATV Trail Distance: 19.1 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Grand Rapids, go 18 miles south on Highway 169 to Highway 200 and east one mile to parking area. Season: May 15 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Hill City: food, restroom, fuel, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Grand Rapids 218-999-7923
VEHICLE WASH
65
HILL CITY
Facilities: Eveleth and Gilbert: Food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Iron Range Off Highway Vehicle Recreation Area
12 ATVentures 2012
The Rabey Line ATV Trail winds its way through sections of the Hill River and the Savanna state forests, and meanders along the old Hill City and Western Railroad grade between Hill City and Jacobson. Alternating between sections of high ground, swamps and bogs, the eastward trek takes you to the beautifully wooded region along the south flowing Mississippi River near scenic Jacobson.
200 JACOBSON MISSISSIPPI RIVER
169
HILL RIVER ST ATE FOREST BOUNDA RY
SAVANNA ST ATE FOREST BOUNDA RY
65
Thistledew ATV Trail Distance: 30 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Togo, take Highway 1 to County Road 562 and go west. Park at intersection of County Roads 562 and 542. Season: May 1 to November 30. Vehicles Allowed: Class 2 ATVs allowed in most areas, but watch for signs.
Facilities: Thistledew: Campground, Buttonbox Campground. Nashwauk: Nashwauk Campground. Food, restrooms and fuel in Nashwauk, Keewatin, Hibbing and Grand Rapids. Lodging in Hibbing and Grand Rapids. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Grand Rapids 218-999-7923
BUTTONBOX LAKE
FIVE ISLAND LAKE
MIRROR LAKE
THISTLEDEW LAKE
Located in Itasca County, the 30 mile Thistledew ATV Trail features two meandering loops through thick sections of large Norway pine and aspen regeneration areas at varying stages of development. The densely forested north loop winds past Five Island, Buttonbox and Crumb lakes, while the south loop directs riders near the north end of Thistledew Lake. Both loops are shared with horseback riders.
Cannon Power Sports Cannon Falls 507-263-4532 www.cannonpower.com
RV Sports, Inc. Thief River Falls 218-681-1007 www.rvsports.com
Century Power Sports Stillwater 651-439-2035 www.centurypower.com
Sette Sports Center Owatonna 507-451-6922 www.settesportscenter.com
Cities Edge Motorsports Shakopee 952-224-2054 www.citiesedge.com
Snell Powersports & Equipment Mankato 507-304-6786 www.snellpse.com
Country Cat Sauk Centre 320-352-3534 www.CountryCat.net Frontier Powersports Fergus Falls 218-998-4386 www.frontierpowersports.com Hamm’s Repair Warren 218-681-1067 / 800-889-5967 www.hammsrepair.net Lighthouse Motorsports and Marine Rosemount 651-322-4420 www.lighthousemotorsports.com
Thomas Sno Sports Ogilvie 320-556-3467 www.ThomasSnoSports.com Waconia Farm Supply Waconia 952-442-7326/ 1-888-741-FARM www.waconiaarcticcat.com Westside Sports, Inc. Wadena 218-631-1113 Windom Farm Service Windom 507-831-2793 www.windomfarmservice.com
MotoProz, Inc. Mazeppa 507-843-2855 www.motoproz.com Northwood Equipment Aitkin 218-927-2140 www.northwoodequipment.com
ATVentures 2012 13
NORTH Agassiz Recreational Trails Distance: 52 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is available in Fertile. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Fertile: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Gordy Gudvangen 218-574-2501
Built on a former railroad grade, the Agassiz Recreational Trail, provides ATV enthusiasts with an easy, scenic 52-mile ride that includes impressive river crossings. This multi-use trail parallels state highways 32 and 102 between Ulen and Crookston, passing through the towns of Twin Valley and Fertile along the way, where support facilities for users can be found.
Blue Ox ATV Trail Distance: 64 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is available in Northome, Big Falls and International Falls. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Big Falls, International Falls, Northome: food, fuel, lodging, restrooms. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Grand Rapids 218-999-7923
The Blue Ox ATV Trail, developed on an abandoned railroad grade with a narrow top, slices a 64-mile northeasterly swath from near Funkley to International Falls, passing through Little Fork, Big Falls and Northome. Riders will enjoy stretches of upland aspen stands and black spruce swamps as well as impressive scenic crossings over the Little Fork and Big Fork rivers.
Agassiz Recreational Trails • Beltrami Island State Forest Blue Ox ATV Trail • Fourtown/Grygla/Consolidated Conservation ATV Trails
Beltrami Island State Forest Distance: 238 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Wannaska, take State Highway 89 south 1 mile to County Road 4. Turn left and go 8.6 miles to Thompson Forest Road. Take the forest road 6.2 miles. Season: Seasonal closures occur. Check the Forest Road Closures at www.mndnr.gov. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Baudette, Roseau, Warroad: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Hayes Lake State Park 218-425-7504
LAKE OF THE W OODS
Warroad ToRoseau
To nt I ’l Falls
BELTRAMI IS LAND STATE FOREST
RED LIKE W .M.A
UPPER REDLAKE
Beltrami Island State Forest is Minnesota’s second largest state forest consisting of stands of Norway pine, aspen, jack pine, birch, elm, ash and oak. For motor vehicles, it is classified as “managed,” meaning highway licensed vehicles are allowed on roads/routes unless posted; ATVs, ORVs and OHMs are allowed on roads, routes and designated trails; and ATV travel off routes, roads and designated trails is prohibited except when hunter/trapper exceptions applies.
Fourtown/Grygla/Consolidated Conservation ATV Trails Distance: 156 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Fourtown, go two miles west and then one mile south. Follow the dirt road. Season: Roads as signed, open year round. Trails open May 1 to October 31. Seasonal restrictions on routes as signed. Some trail segments are not accessible for use. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Fourtown: food, fuel. Grygla: food, fuel, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Thief River Falls 218-681-0889
Several state Wildlife Management Areas located just west of Beltrami Island State Forest provide plenty of riding opportunities on segmented ATV trails. The Fourtown-Grygla Grant-InAid trails connect to the Con-Con lands. The majority of the trails follow existing trails, county and township roads or ditch banks. County ordinances allow ATVs to operate on the far right side of the travel lane; highway licensed vehicles share the route so travel with caution.
ADVENTURE ISN’T PAVED. RV Sports, Inc. Thief River Falls 218-681-1007 www.rvsports.com Tousley Motorsports White Bear Lake 800-TOUSLEY www.tousleymotorsports.com
14 ATVentures 2012
working to bring you and your family off road riding opportunities in the state of Minnesota
www.atvam.org
SOUTH
• Chatfield ATV Trail • Elm Creek ATV Trail Richard J. Dorer Snake Creek and Trout Valley OHV Trails Southeast Minnesota ATV Trail • Tri-County ATV Park
Chatfield ATV Trail
Elm Creek ATV Trail Distance: 7 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Trimont go west on County Road 38 one mile to County Road 44. Turn right on County Road 44 and go seven miles to Township Road. Turn left and parking is a half-mile down the road. Season: December 22 to September 30. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Chatfield: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: Mitch Bublitz, 507-459-1572
TRAIL HEAD
Facilities: Trimont: food, fuel, restrooms. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Windom 507-831-2900, ext. 225
Nestled in the southeast corner of the state, the 16-mile Chatfield ATV Trail is developed entirely on private land. This region features many rolling hills and the trails lead riders across the edges of fields and pastures, along streams and through the woods providing an enjoyable ride for all ages. The site also has a scramble area in an active sand quarry for those looking for a challenge.
TO TRIMONT
190thSt.
Located entirely on private land, the seven-mile Elm Creek ATV trail is the southern most ATV trail in the state. Narrow, meandering woodland trails follow the Elm Creek, crossing the creek several times. On the south side of the 52-acre site is an open field practice track that adds to the fun riding experience for the entire family.
Richard J. Dorer Snake Creek and Trout Valley OHV Trails Distance: Snake Creek: 13.5 miles Trout Valley: 7.4 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Snake Creek: From Kellogg, go three miles south on Highway 61. Trout Valley: From Winona go 15 miles northwest on Highway 61 and then 1.7 miles southwest on County Road 29. Season: May 1 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
61
SNAKE CREEK
Southeast Minnesota ATV Trail Distance: 12.7 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Trail access and parking is available off Highway 14 near Stockton at trailer court. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Stockton: food, fuel, restrooms. More Information: Lee or Tami Potter, Trail Administrators 507-689-2039 (evenings)
SNAKE CREEK
The Southeast ATV Trail covers nearly 13 miles between Stockton and Altura, much of which is private property, and is set among rolling hills and heavily forested areas along Rollingstone Creek and Garvin Brook. Nearby are the Snake Creek, Trout Valley and Chatfield off-road trails. Also, the Southeast ATV Trail is just eight miles west of Whitewater and John A. Latsch state parks. WHITEWATER STATEPARK (CAMPING)
RATTLESNAKE RIDGE
Facilities: Wabasha: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging. More Information: MnDNR Trails and Waterways, Rochester 507-285-7176
61 29
WHITEW ATER WILDLIFE MAN A GEMENT AREA
Rolling through the Mississippi River bluffs are the Snake Creek and Trout Valley OHV Trails. The trails are highlighted with towering slopes that overlook the surrounding countryside. Several lookouts are available along the Snake Creek Trail system. The Trout Valley area to the south offers a section of trail that spans parts of two counties, and provides scenic overlooks of the Trout, Whitewater, and Mississippi Rivers.
SCRAMBLE AREA
10thAve.
Distance: 16 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking/Trailhead Location(s): One mile north of Chatfield on State Highways 74 and 30. Parking is on the right side. Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
WA BASHA CO. WINONA CO.
TROUT VALLEY
ROLLINGS TONE
248
ALTURA
27
25 TO MINNES OTA CI TY
33
27
110
20
23 STOCKTON
20
14
14
Tri-County ATV Park/Trout Valley OHV Trails Distance: 25-acre scramble area Difficulty: Easy to difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Faribault, go four miles north on Highway 3 to Landfill Road (County Road 75), then go one-quarter mile east to Cabot Avenue and one-quarter mile south. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Restrooms in the park. More Information: Ray or Joan Trahan, Trail Administrators 507-332-8901
Located just north of Faribault, the 25-acre Tri-County ATV Park is one of southern Minnesota’s few riding areas for ATVs. Formerly a gravel pit, it is open to class 1 and 2 ATVs. The facility has a shelter and picnic area that also doubles as an observation area that overlooks abandoned gravel pits. There is also a safety training center on site that opened in 2007.
ATVentures 2012 15
Northwoods ATV Trail
AITKIN COUNTY AITKIN COUNTY
TRAIL TOWNS: McGrath Lawler
The ATV Friendly Trail Towns of Aitkin County welcome you to the Northwoods ATV Trail.
· Over 200 miles of connected, marked and maintained ATV Trails over an area the size of Delaware.
McGregor
· Trails traverse the Scenic Beauty of Aitkin County and surrounding areas, providing all the North Woods have to offer.
Palisade
· Designed to provide an enjoyable experience for riders of all experiences.
Hill City
· Designed and built for low impact on the environment.
Jacobson
www.northwoodsatvtrail.com for more information on maps, lodging and ammenities.
