MINNESOTA’S ANNUAL OFFROAD TRAIL RIDER’S GUIDEBOOK
MINNESOTA HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE
2017-18 ATVentures
WHAT’S INSIDE! New Trails & Offroad Riding Areas
ADVENTURE & OFFROAD THRILLS ARE YOURS TO DISCOVER
What to Know Before You Go Riding in State & National Parks Trail Maps & Regional Resources
MINNESOTA REGION LOCATOR 2017-18 ATVentures
6 ARROWHEAD Publisher: Joel Mellenthin Associate Publisher: Paula Jones Editorial Director: Lindsey Fontaine
9 IRON RANGE
Answer the call of Gitchie Gumee on the Arrowhead trails. Several trails give the full North Shore experience with big elevation changes, Lake Superior vistas and a true northwoods experience. It’s a unique way to see the Arrowhead, and several new trails make it even more exciting.
Red dust on your machine is a tell-tale sign that you’ve been riding the Iron Range. Terrain is some of the most varied in the state, with woods, wide open area, lakes and elevation changes. It’s here you’ll find the popular Iron Range OHV State Recreation Area and the Mesabi Mountain ORV Trail.
Art Director: Valerie Pherson Advertising Sales: Mark Mastro, Diane Voight
12 NORTH CENTRAL
Advertising Send all advertising materials to: MSPN Ad Department 16315 Terrey Pine Dr Ste 300 Eden Prairie MN 55344
Clubs in this area put in the ground work for connected clusters of trails — many new in the past few years, including the new Axtell Technical Riding Area. There are more than 500 miles of trail here.
Phone: 952-473-7870; 800-989-6776 Fax: 952-473-7805 www.mspnads.com
17 EAST CENTRAL
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 ©2017 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. For additional travel information:
One of the first dry areas in the spring, this area offers a robust network of trails and surprising remoteness. Straddling either side of Highway 35, between Duluth and the Twin Cities, the network includes long stretches and shorter loops, rivers and several state forests populated with northern hardwoods.
25 SOUTHERN
Roll your way through the picturesque prairies, bluffs and the Mississippi River Valley in the southern region of the state. From the ups and downs of the river valley to the technical scramble area in Appleton, southern Minnesota provides variety and fun.
This area isn’t just made for off-roading, it’s where many four-wheelers are made thanks to Arctic Cat and Polaris. This is also a place to explore tall-tree forests, flat prairie lands and lakes.
> INDEX STATE FOREST
CAMPGROUND
HISTORIC SITE
WATER
PICNIC AREA
FORT RIPLEY STORE
NON-TRAILS TRAILS
www.exploreminnesota.com 888-VISITMN (847-4866)
22 NORTHWEST
CLASS I ATV
PARKING TRAIL SHELTER CLASS I AND II ATV
THE TIN SHED FAMILY CAMPSITE OHM
ORV
ATVentures 2017 • 3
Warroad/ Roseau
Baudette
Bemis Hill 75
Fourtown-Grygla Consolidated Conservation 71
59
53
Blue Ox
Thief River Falls
NORTHEAST
NORTHWEST 2
Thistledew
Wilton Northwest
Little Moose
Bemidji
Agassiz Schoolcraft Forest Riders
75
Soo Line North
Round River Martineau
59
Moose River and Connector
Park Rapids
Moorhead
Spider Lake
10 71
94
10
Crow Wing Southern Loop
Red Dot
Duluth
Soo Line North Lawler Loops
Soo Pits Nemadji and Matthew Lourey
General C.C. Solana Andrews Loop
169
Soo Line South
Gandy Dancer St. Croix
35
ATV All-Terrain Vehicles
CENTRAL 52
75
OHM Off-Highway Motorcycles
St. Cloud
94
71
ORV Off-Road Vehicles (4X4)
12
ATV/OHM
Willmar
12
Meeker County
212
Moose Run
Wild Country
Chengwatana
Alexandria 59
Appleton
53
Goodland
Pine Center Red Top
Fort Ripley and Ripley Connection
Moose Walk
Hill City
Miller Hills
Brainerd
Jackpot
Rabey Line
Blind Lake Connector and Loop
Miller-Black Bear
Stony Spur II
AlbornPengilly
Emily-Outing
Huntersville
52
UPM Blandin
Iron Range
Genoa
169
Grand Rapids
2
Mesabi Mountain
Chisholm
Hovland Woods
Ely
Minneapolis
ATV/OHM/ORV
St. Paul
State Forests 212
35 61
Tri-County Park 14 75
52
Mankato
59
71
SOUTHERN 169
14
Snake Creek Trout Valley
Rochester
Southeast 90
35
Chatfield Elm Creek 90
90
Worthington
Copyright © 2017, State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources Reprinted with Permission
4 • ATVentures 2017
STATE FORESTS ALPHABETICALLY BY NAME WITH CLASSIFICATION Badoura- Limited Battleground- Closed Bear Island- Limited Beltrami Island- Managed Big Fork- Managed Birch Lakes- Closed Blackduck- Managed Bowstring- Limited Buena Vista - Limited Burntside- Limited Chengwanta- Limited Cloquet Valley- Closed/Limited/Managed Crow Wing- Limited D.A.R.- Limited Emily- Limited Finland- Closed/Limited/Managed Fond du Lac - Limited Foot Hills - Limited General C.C. Andrews - Limited George Washington- Closed/Limited/Managed Golden Anniversary - Limited Grand Portage - Limited/Managed Hill River- Limited Huntersville - Limited Insula Lake- Closed Kabetogama- Managed Koochiching- Managed Lake Isabella- Closed Lake Jeanette - Limited Lake of the Woods- Managed Land O’Lakes - Limited Lost River- Managed Lyons - Limited Mississippi Headwaters – Managed Nemadji - Limited Northwest Angle- Managed Pat Bayle - Limited Paul Bunyan - Limited Pillsbury- Closed Pine Island-Managed RJD Memorial Hardwood - Limited Red Lake - Managed Remer - Limited Rum River - Limited Sand Dunes- Closed Savanna - Limited Smokey Bear- Managed Smoky Hills - Limited Snake River- Closed/Limited Solana - Limited St. Croix - Limited Sturgeon River- Closed/Limited/Managed Two Inlets - Limited Waukenabo - Limited Wealthwood - Limited Welsh Lake- Closed White Earth - Limited Whiteface River- Closed
STATE FOREST LANDS Off-highway vehicles are generally permitted on state forest roads and trails, though vehicle drivers need to pay attention that their particular vehicle is allowed on each road and trail. ROADS AND ACCESS LEVELS ARE CLASSIFIED AS SUCH: • Managed: Off-highway vehicles (ATVs/ORVs/OHMs) are allowed on roads, routes and on designated trails. ATV travel off routes, roads and designated trail is prohibited except when hunter/trapper exception applies. • Limited: Off-highway vehicles (ATVs/ORVs/OHMs), may be operated on signed roads and trails designated for a vehicle type. ATV travel off of signed motor vehicles trails or forest roads is prohibited except when hunter/trapper exception applies. • Closed: Off-highway vehicles are prohibited in this forest. REGISTER YOUR OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) OHV includes ATV, OHM and ORV. ORVs are a separate vehicle type with their own registration requirement belonging to Minnesota residents and must be registered with the DNR to operate in Minnesota, with very few exceptions. This includes ORVs licensed for highway use, such as motorcycles and trucks, that are also operated on designated trails. Machines can be registered at any DMV office, at the DNR office in St. Paul or online at www. mndnr.gov. The cost for registration varies, and is valid for three years. ATV CLASSIFICATION Since July 1, 2015, an ATV’s width determines how ATVs are classified and where they can be ridden. Class 1 is an ATV with a total width of 50 inches or less. Class 2 is an ATV with a total width that is greater than 50 inches but not more than 65 inches wide. Vehicles not considered ATVs include golf carts, mini-trucks, dune buggies, or go carts or a vehicle designed and used specifically for lawn maintenance, agriculture, logging or mining purposes. NON-RESIDENT TRAIL PASSES A trail pass is required for all non-Minnesota residents with vehicles registered in another state. The trail pass grants access to Minnesota’s state or Grant-in-Aid trails. Trail passes are not required if the machine is limited to riding on property owned by the machine owner, spouse, child or parent. Non-resident passes may be purchased by phone, online or in-person. For 2017, the fees are $21 for an annual pass. Offroad vehicles (trucks) have the option of a three-year pass for $31. Some processing fees may apply, and duplicate passes are available. Ways to purchase: • Online at www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/ohv • By phone at 888-665-4236 • In person at the DNR central office, or at any place that sells DNR licenses (including many convenience stores). SAFETY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS ATV Safety training is mandatory for anyone born after July 1, 1987. Those 16 and older can complete an online safety class. Youth age 11 to 15 must complete both an online course and hands-on safety. For more information, go to www.dnr.state. mn.us/safety/vehicle/atv. Off-Highway Motorcycle OHM drivers under 16 years old are required to have an OHM Certificate to operate on public lands, frozen waters, and state or Grant-in-Aid trails in Minnesota. Students 11 and older can earn the certificate through an online safety course. Students 10 and under need to complete a special DNR Safety CD course. For more information, go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/vehicle/ohm. Off-Road Vehicle ORVs may not be operated by anyone under age 16. An ORV environmental and safety training course is available on USB flash drive for persons 16 or older. The course covers ORV familiarization, operation procedures, laws, towing procedures, ethics, safety hazards and environmental considerations. For a flash drive, contact the DNR Information Center at 1-888-646-6367 or 651-296-6157.
ATVentures 2017 • 5
ARROWHEAD
Hovland Woods Trail • Jackpot Trail • Wild Country Trail • Moose Run Trail • Red Dot Trail • Stony Spur II Trail • Moose Walk Trail • Tower Multi-Use Trail
NEW! Hovland Woods Trail
This new, remote trail traverses through hardwood forests, overlooks bog areas and offers riders a glimpse of the Hovland Woods Scientific Natural Area within the Grand Portage State Forest. It also provides access to Moose Horn, Tom and Stevens lakes with a crossing over the Swamp River.
TO FINLAND
Distance: 16 miles Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is available at the beginning of
1 402 TETTAGOUCHE ST ATE PARK
Boyd Road. Season: May 15 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: None More Information: Rhonda Silence, 218-370-0378
4 5
NEW! Jackpot Trail
Access this new 30-mile loop from its start at the Dunka River Road parking lot, or connect from the Stony Spur II Trail. Encounter a variety of scenery including aspen, maple, pine and birch trees, plus the Roaring Stony River, which the trail parallels. Be prepared to ride some forest roads before getting into the thick of the loop. Distance: 30 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located west of Isabella; travel
13.5 miles on Highway 1, then turn south onto Highway 2. Turn west on Dunka River Road after 1.5 miles. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Food, fuel, restrooms; Babbitt: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Dave Soular, 218-827-3504
NEW! Wild Country Trail
Get the best of it all with this new addition to the Arrowhead region, including overlooks of Lake Superior, bogs, rivers, streams and more. Start at the trailhead at the Lake Country Demonstration Forest, with options to connect to the Moose Walk and Red Dot trails. A portion of the trail follows the Alger Grade Logging Railroad bed, and Lake County gravel roads are also open to ATV use. Distance: 30 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located east of intersection of
County Highway 2 and Alger Grade. Season: May 15 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
61
SILVER BAY
3
Silver Bay Links
LAKE SUPERIOR
BEAVER BAY
Red Dot, Moose Walk and Moose Run Trails
The trail system in the neighboring towns of Silver Bay, Beaver Bay and Finland areas offers more than 60 miles of scenic opportunity along Lake Superior’s North Shore. The Red Dot links Silver Bay and Beaver Bay and then makes a swing through Tettegouche State Park. It offers high, vast vistas over the great lake. There are picnic areas, shelters, restrooms and camping locations throughout the network, as well as lodging and fuel in the towns. The Moose Walk Trail heads north from Red Dot toward Finland and the Moose Run Trail. These are remote, hilly and winding trails through the Sawtooth Mountains. Distance: Red Dot: 30 miles; Moose Walk: 22 miles; Moose Run: 12 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult on Red Dot and Moose Walk; Easiest
on Moose Run
Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Red Dot: From Beaver Bay the trailhead is located on the north side of Highway 4, a half-mile northwest of Highway 61. Silver Bay hosts two parking areas on Highway 5 on the west side of town and the other in town. Moose Walk/Run: From Finland/ Highway 1 drive east on Lake County Highway 7 or west on County Road 701 for about 2 miles. Season: May 15 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Silver Bay/Beaver Bay/Finland: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging,
camping Facilities: Silver Bay: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Bill Peterson, 218-834-3350
6 • ATVentures 2017
More Information: Red Dot and Moose Walk: Bill Ylatupa, Trail Adminis-
trator, 218-220-8189; Moose Run: LeRoy Teschendorf, 218-353-7337
ARROWHEAD Tower Multi-Use Trail
A short-but-sweet trail, this connects the city of Tower and the public beach and campground at McKinley, on Lake Vermilion. The trail leaves Tower on both the east and west sides. Distance: 2 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access is in the city
of Tower at Poplar St. and at the trail’s north end on Township Road 4596. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Tower: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: 218-300-7843
ATVentures 2017 • 7
ARROWHEAD Stony Spur II Trail
Take a backwoods jaunt from Babbitt east to a trail shelter at the end of the 25-mile route. Bring food and water for a picnic, and consider extra fuel as the only services are in Babbitt as the primary road crossings are minimum-maintenance forest roads. The trail runs along the southern boundary of Bear Island State Forest and features some stream crossings. You can also connect to the new Jackpot Loop to tack on more miles. Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is located west of Babbitt, 1 mile
from the intersection of County Road 21 and 70.
Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities:
Babbitt: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information:
218-300-7841
8 • ATVentures 2017
IRON RANGE Iron Range with Genoa Spur
Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area • Genoa Trail • Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail • Goodland Trail • Chisholm Trail • Little Moose Trail • Mesabi Mountain Trail • Thistledew Trail
Pengilly-Goodland Connection
Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area - Gilbert
Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail
The 4,046-acre Iron Range OHV State Recreation Area in Gilbert is Minnesota’s premier OHV experience. This huge park is devoted to riders and machines of every type, ranging from motorcycles to Hummers and everything in between. In the heart of Minnesota’s mining country, riders of all skill levels can enjoy 36 miles of trails and a multi-purpose event area, 4x4 rock crawl and obstacle course, toughtruck competition course, sand and mud drags, hill climbs, motorcycle track and more. The rugged landscape is framed by huge mountains of iron ore, stretching for more than 20 miles around the play zone. All OHVs must be registered but there is no admission fee. Distance: 36 miles Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Gilbert, go east on Highway 135
The Alborn-Pengilly Railroad Trail runs for 39 miles along an abandoned railroad grade between the towns of Alborn and Pengilly. It’s a great place for beginners to get comfortable with their machines while enjoying quiet northwoods bog scenery and making fun river and stream crossings on former railroad trestles. The trail runs past the Whiteface River State Forest, alternating between shaded woods and open areas. Distance: 39 miles Difficulty: Easiest 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:
to the entrance on Enterprise Trail. Season: Open year round but with reduced winter hours
Facilities: Pengilly/Hibbing: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Meadowlands: food, fuel, restroom; Alborn: food, restrooms More Information: Jack Benolken, 218-885-1250
Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Eveleth/Gilbert: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation
Area, 218-735-3830
Genoa Trail
From Gilbert, zip over to Eveleth on the three-mile Genoa Trail. This quick and easy way begins east of the highway 53/37 junction and ends at the Sherwood Forest Campground, which also connects to the popular Iron Range OHV State Recreation Area. The Genoa Trail runs parallel to the Mesabi Trail and cuts through the old Genoa mining operation. Distance: 3 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Located in Eveleth at the
Gillbert
adw ay Str eet
intersection of U.S. Highway 53 and State Highway 37.
Bro
Season: Year-round Vehicles Allowed:
37
Facilities: Eveleth/Gilbert: food, fuel, restrooms,
lodging
More Information: 218-300-7843 Spa rta
Roa
d
Sparta
Point
Fayal Road
ding Differ
Eveleth
37
Road
ATVentures 2017 • 9
IRON RANGE Goodland Trail
Winding through the northern hardwood forest, the Goodland Trail is a popular place to leaf peep via ATV in the fall. The 19-mile trail offers pleasing views of woods, lakes and bogs, and those who wish to explore further can link up to the Alborn-Pengilly Trail. Distance: 19 miles Difficulty: Easiest 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. Access in Goodland on Highway 65. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Pengilly: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Goodland: fuel, rest-
rooms
More Information: Jon Korpi, 218-969-4297
Chisholm Trail
The city of Chisholm allows responsible riding in town from 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m., but if you just need to get out of civilization for a while, take the 11mile Chisholm Trail straight out of town and into the Superior National Forest. Here, mixed pines and hardwoods give you a proper wilderness backdrop for a satisfying course of tight turns and challenging hills. Distance: 11 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Half mile north of Chisholm to Sever
Road, or access the trail at the intersection of Highway. 5 and Connors Road. Season: Year-round, with selected areas closed for deer hunting season Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Chisholm: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: 218-300-7843
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10 • ATVentures 2017
IRON RANGE Little Moose Trail
The 18-mile Little Moose Trail will get an extension in 2017. It’s no surprise people asked to see more of this appealing area, and we’re looking forward to continuing deeper into the mixed northern woodlands of the George Washington State Forest. Look for wildlife as you pass Hartley, Scooty and Wolf lakes, which border the trail, and take in some sweet vistas over the Prairie River. If you want to stick around a while, the Wolf Lake county campground is accessible from the trail. Distance: 18 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): The West Lot is north of County Highway 7 on
County Road 337. The East Lot is on Highway 65, near the Taconite State Trail. Season: May 15 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Grand Rapids: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Balsam: food, fuel, rest-
rooms
More Information: Ron Houwman, 218-326-6045
Thistledew Trails
Itasca County is known for its towering pines and vast forests, and the Thistledew ATV Trails take full advantage of this special landscape of mature Norway pines and aspen. The 25-mile system consists of a north and south loop through the George Washington State Forest that are shared with horseback riders. The north loop showcases Five Island, Buttonbox and Crumb lakes, while the south loop winds around Thistledew Lake. Riders can camp at the Buttonbox and Thistledew campgrounds in the George Washington State Forest. Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Nashwauk go north on Highway 65 for
Mesabi Mountain Trail
It’s only four miles long — but what a four miles. The Mesabi Mountain ORV Trail, Minnesota’s first Grant-in-Aid ORV trail, covers some of the state’s most gripping terrain, including rocky gorges, granite boulders and a ridge along part of the Laurentian Divide. Distance: 4 miles Difficulty: Most difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Eveleth, take Highway 53 to
Industrial Park Drive, follow to Progress Park Parkway and turn right. Season: Year-round, with selected areas closed for deer hunting season Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Gilbert/Eveleth: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: 218-300-7843
NEW! Alvwood Squaw Lake Trail The newest trail to make its entry into the Arrowhead region is the 159-mile Alvwood Squaw Lake Trail. This Grant-in-Aid trail utilizes county and forest service roads for an easy ride through both the Chippewa and Bowstring forests, where you’ll be treated to pine plantations and aspen trees. Watch for two additional trails currently under development to offer connections in the summer of 2017. Distance: 159 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking at many businesses in
32 miles, then left on Highway 1 for three and a half miles. Continue north on County Road 452 to parking. Season: April 1 to November 30
Alvwood and Squaw Lake, including Leino’s Resort, Hill Restaurant, Gosh Dam Place, Hoot n Holler, Fish Tales Bar & Grill and more. Season: Year-round except for forest service road closure March 15 – May 2
Facilities: Grand Rapids: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Togo: food More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails – Grand Rapids,
Facilities: Alvwood/Squaw Lake: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Sarah Thompson, Itasca County Land Depart-
218-328-8983
ment, 218-327-7393
Vehicles Allowed:
Vehicles Allowed:
ATVentures 2017 • 11
NORTH CENTRAL
Soo Line North Trail • Lawler Loops • Blind Lake Connector and Loop • Hill City Trail • Rabey Line Trail • UPM Blandin Trail • Emily-Outing Trail • Moose River Trail and Connector • Axtell Technical Riding Area • Miller - Black Bear Trail • Spider Lake Trails • Fort Ripley Trail and Ripley Connection • Blue Ox Trail • Pine Center Trails Crow Wing Southern Loop Trail • Meeker County OHV Park
Blind Lake Connector and Loop
Northwoods Regional ATV Trail System
Soo Line North Trail
UP
Remer
169
ssi
din
an Bl
6
Mi
M
200
Big Rice Lake
200
Hill City
Moose River and Connector
169
ty
Hi
i ll C
pp
i
tor
ec
nn
Co
y
e Rab
ssi
Line
River
ake
Co
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65
Big Sandy Lake
dL Blin
This is the place to start if you never want to stop riding. The Soo Line North series of trails passes through Aitkin, Carlton and Cass counties, with stretches from Moose Lake to Lawler, from Lawler to Shovel Lake and from Shovel Lake to five miles east of Cass Lake. The Soo Line North connects with the 115-mile Soo Line Trail southwest of Moose Lake, which connects to six more riding areas, and an additional 100-plus miles. The trails follow the former railroad grade, curving through flat portions of the Hill River and Bowstring State Forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially around remote ponds along the way.
Continuing northwest on the Soo Line North, the next diversion is the Blind Lake Connector and Loop. This trail takes you into deep wilderness forest and pond habitat where grouse, fox, deer and turkey are commonly spotted. There are several restrooms and picnic spots along the trail, and a rustic shelter with a woodstove where the trail ends at Brown Lake.
169
and south ends of the loop.
Palisade
Blind Lake Loop
Distance: 33 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): On the north
So
o
Li
ne
No rth
Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Distance: 150 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access is located in Shov-
County Land Dept., 218-927-7364
el Lake, Swatara, Palisade, McGregor, Lawler, Moose Lake and Remer. Season: Carlton County: year round; Aitkin and Cass counties: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed: (no OHM for Moose Lake-Lawler)
Hill City Trail
Facilities: Lawler, Palisade, Swatara, Remer, Federal Dam and Boy River: food, fuel, restrooms; Moose Lake, McGregor and Remer: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Aitkin County, Mark Jacobs, 218-927-7364; Carlton County, Jim Gassert, 218-485-4486; Cass County, Kirk Titus, 218-947-7501
Lawler Loops The scenic, heavily wooded Lawler Loops Trail consists of a three-loop detour off the Soo Line North. Boardwalks crisscross over wetlands for an interesting ride, and picnic areas equipped with grills invite you to stop and enjoy a break in nature. Distance: 16 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): In Lawler along the Soo Line North Trail. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Lawler: food, fuel, restroom More Information: Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Dept., 218-927-7364
12 • ATVentures 2017
Facilities: Swatara: food, fuel, restroom More Information: Mark Jacobs, Aitkin
The Hill City Trail offers some of the most satisfying challenges in the Aitkin area, with steep hill climbs and tight turns through the hardwood forest surrounding the Quadna Mountain Park. Stop and take in views of the Willow River from a 600-foot-high bridge and connect to the Rabey Line and the UPM Blandin trails to add miles. The trail can also be accessed at the Quadna Mountain Resort and Convention Center. Distance: 16 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking in Hill City and Swatara Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Hill City: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Swatara: food, fuel,
restroom
More Information: Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Dept.,
218-927-7364
NORTH CENTRAL Rabey Line Trail The Rabey Line Trail runs smoothly along the old Hill City and Western railroad grade and links the towns of Jacobson and Hill City. The scenic terrain includes jaunts through the Savanna and Hill River state forests, tours of swamps, bogs and sections of high ground. Traveling east, riders will also cruise along the mighty Mississippi River. In the middle of the Rabey Line is the UPM Blandin Trail, and near Hill City, the Hill City Connector meets the Rabey. Distance: 19 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access east of Hill City
and north of Jacobson.
Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Hill City: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Jacobson: food, fuel,
restroom
More Information: Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Dept., 218-927-7364
UPM Blandin Trail The UPM Blandin Trail travels through northern hardwoods and tall upland spruce, making it an especially beautiful place to ride in the fall. Spurring north off the Rabey Line, the route includes several small stream crossings, a picnic area and a scenic overlook. The UPM Blandin ends halfway between Hill City and Grand Rapids on Highway 169. Distance: 21 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park at trail access point seven and a half
Emily-Outing Trail
The 56-mile-long Grant-in-Aid-funded Emily-Outing Trail connects with the Moose River Trail and is surrounded by ATV-friendly communities where ATVs are allowed to travel within city limits. Terrain includes flat open trail as well as more challenging rocky and hilly areas. Some sections of the trail share the road with vehicle traffic. Distance: 56 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Available in Emily and Outing. Trail access
from Moose River Trail.
Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Outing: food, fuel More Information: Meri Lysne, 218-792-5365
Moose River Trail & Connector
Linking the Soo Line North with the Moose River Trail, the seven-mile Moose River Connector is a straightforward ride toward the Land O’ Lakes State Forest, where it meets the Moose River Trail. Thanks to old logging roads, the Moose River Trail is smooth and flat, and suitable for all experience levels. Dense pine woods surround the trail, and small lakes and ponds provide wildlife watching along the way. Camping is available at White Oak Lake, off the Wren Lake Loop. Distance: 36 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Available in Swatara, Remer for the connec-
miles north of Hill City or seven and a half miles south of Grand Rapids on Highway 169. Season: May 15 to October 31
tor; trail access seven miles north of Outing on Highway 6 and then east on Ben Draper Forest Road. Season: Open year round; Connector open May 15 to October 31. Vehicles Allowed: (no OHM for Moose River ATV Trail)
Facilities: Hill City, Grand Rapids: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Jacobson:
Forest
food, fuel, restroom More Information: Mike Hilla, 218-259-5339
or MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-308-2367
Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Outing, Remer: food, fuel; camping in Land O’ Lakes State More Information: Mark Jacobs, Aitkin County Land Dept., 218-927-7364
ATVentures 2017 • 13
NORTH CENTRAL NEW! Axtell Technical Riding Area Have a huge sand pit just taking up space in your backyard? Do what Aitkin County did; make a technical riding area! Housed on 40 acres, the newest addition to the Northwood’s ATV Trail System offers serious fun. With multiple bowls, hill climbs, a variety of terrain crawls and even a mud pit, you’ll never get bored here. Take a break from your ride and enter Axtell via the Soo Line North Trail. Distance: 40 acres Difficulty: Easiest to Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park in Mc-
Gregor or Palisade, or make your entrance from the Soo Line North Trail. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: McGregor/Palisade: food, fuel, restroom, lodging More Information: Mark Jacobs, 218-9277364
Miller – Black Bear Trail
The 19-mile Miller – Black Bear Trail is the perfect choice for a day trip with new riders. The trail winds through forests and gently rolling hills covered with wildflowers and wild berries, and picnic tables and grills can be found at scenic high points along the trail overlooking the Mississippi River. Stop and savor the seasons, or stay overnight and make the trip last; primitive camping is available near Section 6 and the Mine Pit Lake. Distance: 19 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Travel north from Ironton for three miles
on County Road 30 before turning south onto County Road 31. After 1.3 miles go south on County Road 128 and take the first right; follow one mile to parking. Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Lawler: food, fuel, restroom More Information: Russell Heitola, 218-825-0441
Spider Lake Trails
The Spider Lake OHV trail system offers a diverse array of trail challenges, making it an ideal spot to hone your skills. With nearby camping accommodations and a swimming spot on Spider Lake accessible, it’s also a great choice for families who enjoy getting outside to play. Nestled west of Pine River and Pequot Lakes, this trail climbs and dips through the Foothills State Forest and curves around lakes and ponds. It is open year-round but riding on groomed snowmobile trails is prohibited. Distance: 29 miles Difficulty: Easiest to Most
Difficult
Parking/Trailhead Location(s):
From Pine River go 12 miles west on County Road 2 (24th Street SW) and then south a mile and a half on Spider McKinley Forest Road to parking area. Season: Open year-round, except on groomed snowmobile trails. Segments of trail leading to #314 may be closed due to logging activities. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Pine River: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Leader: food, fuel,
restroom
More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails - Bemidji, 218-308-2367
14 • ATVentures 2017
NORTH CENTRAL Fort Ripley Trail and Ripley Connection The easy, enjoyable Fort Ripley ATV Trail is made up of three loops that run through part of the Crow Wing County Memorial Forest. The trail follows old Burlington Northern railroad grade, winding through easygoing hills through oak and pine forests between Sebie Lake and the historic town of Fort Ripley, gateway to the Camp Ripley military training facility. The Ripley Connection runs between Little Falls and Brainerd. Distance: 31 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Locations: Access in Brainerd, Little Falls and Fort
Ripley
Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: OHM on loop trail only as designated
Facilities: Brainerd/Little Falls: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Fort Ripley: food, lodging; camping and picnic facilities available in Crow Wing State Park More Information: Darrel Palmer, 218-828-0353
Blue Ox Trail Running along an abandoned railroad grade through the Pine Island and Koochiching state forests, the Blue Ox ATV Trail is a truly scenic trail, with crossings over the Little Fork and Big Fork rivers, and views of swamps, black spruce and upland aspen stands. Wildlife is abundant in this richly forested region. Camping is available in Big Falls. Distance: 74 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking is available in Northome, Funkley and Big Falls
(south of International Falls). Season: April 11 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Northome: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Big Falls: food, fuel, restroom; Funkley: food, restrooms More Information: Jack White, 218-897-5764
ATVentures 2017 • 15
NORTH CENTRAL Pine Center Trails The 20-mile Pine Center ATV Trail includes straightforward routes on level ground as well as mud runs and bountiful inclines and declines to thrill experienced riders. The route winds through large hardwood stands of oak and maple, and shelters and picnic areas along the way provide plenty of opportunities to take a break. Connect to the Crow Wing South Loop to ride to Brainerd or reach the Fort Ripley Trail and Ripley Connection. Distance: 20 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park at the Pine Center community park
located at the intersection of County Roads 2 and 8.
Season: April 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: OHM on trail loops as designated
Facilities: Garrison: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Pine Center: food More Information: Alex Smude Jr., 218-764-2281
Crow Wing Southern Loop Trail Whether coming from Brainerd or that’s your end-destination, the Crow Wing Southern Loop Trail is the ticket. With access to the city and connections with the Fort Ripley Trail and Connection, and Pine Center Trail, this loop showcases some of the region’s finest country and agricultural scenery. Distance: 52 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park at the Brainerd Lakes Chamber of
Commerce rest stop, located eight miles south of Brainerd on Highway 371. Season: May 1 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: None More Information: Darrel Palmer, 218-828-0353
Meeker County OHV Park With a nearby restroom, picnic shelter and youth training area, the Meeker County OHV Park is a great place to spend the day, or two, with the family. Nestled on 40 acres of maple, elm, ash and oak trees, you can also take advantage of the scenery via five miles of designated ATV trails or the six miles of motorcycle trails. There’s even a mud pit, too. Distance: 40 acres Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Travel west from Darwin on Highway 12
and go south on County Road 9. Park entrance is six miles down on east side of road. Season: Year-Round, with temporary closures due to weather Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: None More Information: Alvin Bertram, 320-587-9505
16 • ATVentures 2017
EAST CENTRAL
Soo Line South • Soo Pits Trail • Red Top Trail • Solana Loop/Solana State Forest • Gandy Dancer Trail • St. Croix State Forest Trails • Nemadji State Forest Trails • Matthew Lourey State Trail • Washington/Ramsey Trail • Straight Arrows Trail • Fond du Lac State Forest Trails • Chengwatana State Forest Trails • General C.C. Andrews State Forest Trails
Soo Line South + Spur Trails
Soo Line South
53
Duluth
The Soo Line South Trail, stretching through five counties and two states, is the longest single trail in the state at 126 miles. The Minnesota section is 115 miles long with one end in Morrison County near Royalton and the other at Saunders, south of Superior, Wis., where it is called the Saunders State Trail. The trail is built primarily on former railroad grade for a flat trail with sweeping turns. The eastern portion of the trail, in Carlton County, is especially scenic with a trestle bridge over the Kettle River and woodsy terrain. Its trail cousin, Soo Line North, bisects the north-central area of Minnesota. The two intersect in Moose Lake. The Soo Line South also connects to the Red Top Trail, Solana State Forest and Loop, the Soo Pits ATV Trails and Foxy Loop. 2
33
Proctor
73
So
Cloquet
o
169
65
Jay Cooke State Park
e
McGregor
210
Mille Lacs Lake
Harding
27
Genola
35
Onamia
W ahkon
Isle
27
Onamia Lake
Pierz
Nemadji State Forest
23
D.A.R. State Forest
Finlayson
Askov
Banning State Park
Sandstone
Snake River State Forest
Rum River State Forest
Hillman
65
Hinckl ey
48
St. Croix State Forest
PINECO.
Nemadji State Forest ATV Trails
Gandy Dancer OHV Trail
2 53
Distance: 115 miles in Minnesota; 8 miles in Wisconsin Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Aitkin County: park in McGrath; Carlton
County: park in Moose Lake; Mille Lacs County: parking in Isle; Morrison County: parking in Genola and Hillman; Pine County: parking in McGrath and Moose Lake. Season: Aitkin, Mille Lacs and Pine counties: April 1 to November 30; Carlton County: year-round; Morrison County: April 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: OHM in Aitkin and Carlton counties
23
BrookPark
47
Buckman
169
Rum River State Forest
Quamba
Ann
25
35
107
M ora
Royalton
General Andrews State Forest
Rutledge
18
65
Red Top ATV Trail
MILLELACS CO.
27
Last rup
10
23
Denham
River
Mille Lacs Kathio State
35
PINECO.
McGrath
47
Father Hennepin State Park
169
25
27
CARLTON CO.
ke Sna
Pine Center ATV Trail
18
Little Falls
Pits Soo Trails ATV Nemadji
Moose Lake State Park
Garrison
Fort Ripley ATV Trail and Ripley Connection
371
M oose Lake
27
Solana State Forest
18
Barnum
Trail
AITKIN CO.
Wealthwood State Forest
18
WISCONSIN
73
AT V
27
47
25
Saunders
35
North
65
169
35
105
210
Fond du Lac State Forest
23
Aitkin
Crow Wing State Park
23
210
210
Lin
210
Superior
35
23
Olgilvie
Henriette
65
PineCity
Facilities: Isle, Moose Lake, Willow River and Superior, Wis.: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Genola: food, fuel; Denham: fuel, restroom; McGrath: food More Information: Aitkin County: Mark Jacobs, 218-927-7364; Carlton County: Jim Gassert, 218-485-4486; Mille Lacs County: Tina Chapman, 612-676-8664; Morrison County: David Lanners, 320-360-4927 or danlan1@live.com; Pine County: Mike Weske, 218-461-6040 or weskemike2002@gmail.com
ATVentures 2017 • 17
EAST CENTRAL Soo Pits Trails Those who want a bit of a challenge should veer off the Soo Line South Trail between Highway 61 and I-35W to the Soo Pits area. It features five miles of twisties, with the highlight of a pit with piles, steep walls and rims for climbing and scrambling. This area is suited to a more experienced rider, or those who want to build skills. Distance: 5 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Moose Lake, go a half-mile east on
Highway 27. Season: April 1 to November 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Solana State Forest OHV Trails & Solana Loop
Distance: 15 miles in the
Distance: 22 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park at the Drift Skippers Clubhouse, at
Facilities: Isle: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Mark Jacobs, 218-927-7364
Gandy Dancer Connections
Gandy Dancer Trail SOLANA STATE FOREST
ARTHYDE
PLINY SOLANA
SO
O
LIN
ES
OU
TH
MCGRATH
O
L
Loop; 48 miles of signed forest roads Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From McGrath, go north on Highway 27 for 6.5 miles, east on County Road 2 for 6 miles, south on County Road 26 for 1.3 miles, and left on 150th Place to parking. Access also available via the Soo Line South trailhead on the west side of Highway 65, south of the Snake River bridge. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: OHM on the Loop; ORV on forest roads Facilities: McGrath: food More Information: Mark Jacobs, 218-927-7364
18 • ATVentures 2017
This technical diversion off the Soo Line South Trail between Isle and McGrath offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, including some challenging stretches. Within the Red Top trails, the Adventure Trail lives up to its name with rocky sections, steep hills and marshy areas. Beginners will enjoy the sandy main loop, as well as the sand dunes, gravel piles and a water hole. There is a trail shelter near Bergman Brook and a campground along the Snake River.
a trailhead 4.5 miles northeast off the Soo Line North Trail. Access also available at Snake River Campground on Highway 65. Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Class 1 on the Ten Bruins and Adventure trails
Facilities: Moose Lake: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: 218-460-7020
The Solana Loop is adjacent to the Soo Line South Trail and within Solana State Forest. The entire state forest, though, is open to off-highway vehicles on signed roads only. Temporary closures may happen after major rains. The forest is wooded with mature oaks, featuring gently rolling hills and many swampy areas. The Snake, Rice and Split Rock rivers run through this forest.
Red Top Trail
Named for those who originally built the railroad in this area, the Gandy Dancer Trail stretches 98 miles on a south/north trajectory through Wisconsin and Minnesota. It crosses into Minnesota at St. Croix State Forest and continues north for 30 miles, including the eastern edge of Nemadji State Forest before cutting back into Wisconsin. While this trail is mostly arrow-straight, it offers access to the two forests and a wide variety of landscape and trails. Distance: 30 miles in Min-
nesota; 68 in Wisconsin
Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s):
Parking and trail access available east of Nickerson, outside Kingsdale or within the St. Croix State Forest. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Nickerson/ Danbury, Wis.: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Duxbury: food, fuel, restrooms More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
EAST CENTRAL St. Croix State Forest Trails
Nemadji State Forest OHV Trails
There are two ways to see the 42,000-acre St. Croix State Forest: on forest roads or on the St. Croix State Forest Trail specifically designated for ATVs. This forest experienced a major blow-down in 2011, so part of the experience is witnessing the rebirth of a forest. There is a trail exclusively for winter use. Some trails are near the winding Tamarack River, which can become deep and fast after heavy rains. Trails here also connect to the Gandy Dancer.
The Nemadji may be close to Duluth and the Twin Cities, but it’s an intensely remote state forest with minimal services and real roads. With its proximity and trails in excess of 100 miles, it’s a popular area to get away from it all. This area welcomes all kinds of off-highway vehicles, with some trails exclusively for Class 1 ATVs and some single-track off road motorcycle trails. The south of the forest is gently rolling land; the forest gets a decidedly more northwoods feel the farther north one rides. Connect to the Matthew Lourey, Gandy Dancer, Straight Arrows and Washington/ Ramsey trails to expand your adventure.
Distance: 26 miles on St. Croix State Forest Trail; 45 miles on marked
forest roads
Difficulty: Easiest
Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Hinckley go east on Highway 48, then north on County Road 173 to Tamarack Forest Road. Season: Year-round Vehicles Allowed:
Distance: 100 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Nickerson, go north on Delong
Road/Highway 23 and continue onto County Road 146 to Gafvert Dayuse Area. Season: Open year round except during deer hunting season 145
23
Vehicles Allowed:
146
164
31
Facilities: Danbury, Wis.: food, fuel, restroom, lodging; Duxbury: food, fuel, restroom More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
Facilities: Nickerson: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
NEMADJ I STATE FOREST
ATVentures 2017 • 19
EAST CENTRAL Matthew Lourey State Trail The Matthew Lourey State Trail connects three state forests, though ATV use of the trail is not continuous. Instead, designated parts of the trail in Nemadji, St Croix and Chengwatana state forests are for ATV and OHM summer use, with a longer trail connecting St. Croix and Nemadji for winter use. The trail sections within each forest provide access to a greater network of trails. The trail is named in honor of local Marine Matthew Lourey, who was killed on duty in Iraq in 2005. Lourey and his family enjoyed this trail. Distance: 47 miles Difficulty: Easy to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking in
both Nemadji and St. Croix State Forest. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Nickerson: food, fuel, rest-
rooms, lodging; Gafvert Campground: parking, camping, restrooms More Information: MN DNR Information Center, 888-646-6367
NEW! Washington/Ramsey Trail
Over 70 miles of challenging new trail join those already existing in the Nemadji State Forest. The Washington/Ramsey Trail narrowly twists, turns and climbs through the forest with amazing overlooks of stream valleys as the reward. Extend your trip by easily connecting to the Matthew Lourey and Gandy Dancer trails. Distance: 71 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Nickerson go east, parking off Net
Lake Forest Road in Nemadji State Forest.
Season: Year-Round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Moose Lake/Nickerson/Duquette: food, fuel, restrooms,
lodging
More Information: Terry O’Rourke, 651-247-4898
NEW! Straight Arrows Trail
Contributing to the already impressive trail system located within the Nemadji State Forest, the new Straight Arrows Trail offers up a mix of 35 miles of single-track OHM and 18 miles of multi-use trails. Even experienced riders will face challenges here, as the trail blends steep climbs and close-quarters curves with a series of straight stretches as a reprise. Border hop into Wisconsin to enjoy trails in the Douglas County Forest. Distance: 53 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Nickerson go east, parking off Harlis
Road in the Nemadji State Forest.
Season: Year-Round, depending on weather conditions Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Moose Lake/Nickerson: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Ken Fastner, 651-456-0224
Fond du Lac State Forest Trails
These trails are a newer addition to the state’s offerings. The 37-mile network is located primarily in the Fond du Lac State Forest, following ridges throughout the land, bordering wetlands, marshes and shallow lakes. There’s a wide variety of trail types for all skill levels. For those wanting to hone in on their riding skills, there is also a large gravel pit, which provides a perfect practice space. Distance: 37 miles; 16 miles of forest roads Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and
trail access north of Cromwell, off County Road 120 as well as Gravel Pit Road. Season: Open year-round Vehicles Allowed:
20 • ATVentures 2017
Facilities: Cromwell, Cloquet: food, fuel, restroom, lodging More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
EAST CENTRAL Chengwatana State Forest OHV Trails Trails in this state forest are primarily for Class 1 ATVs Chengwatana and off road motorcycles, State Forest though the section of the Matthew Lourey Trail within this forest accommodates Class II ATVs. This area of Wisconsi n connecting trails has fun names like Redhorse Trail, Grouse Trail and Ramblee Trail. They skirt the Kettle River as it enters the St. Croix, as well as Redhorse Creek. The wide, gentle curves are especially nice for new riders. Forest roads, when marked, are also open to ATV use. St .
Cr o
ix
Ri
ve r
10
Distance: 15 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Pine City, go 4 miles northeast on
County Road 9, then 9 miles east on County Road 10/Chengwatana Forest Road to parking lot. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Pine City: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Beroun: food, fuel,
restrooms
More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
General C.C. Andrews State Forest OHV Trails Trails in this forest straddle I-35 and give multiple possibilities for loops. It’s a great place for early spring riding, as the soil drains quickly. Terrain rolls gently, and trails on the forest’s southern side meander along Willow River. Forest roads are also open to off-road vehicles, as marked. Distance: 24 miles designated trail Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Park at a trailhead on Dago Lake Road, just
east of I-35, or head farther east to Dago Lake day-use parking area. Parking and access also available at McCormick Lake day-use area. Season: Open year round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Willow River: food, fuel, restrooms; Sturgeon Lake: food, fuel,
lodging
More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, 218-460-7020
ATVentures 2017 • 21
NORTHWEST Prairies & Pines
Schoolcraft Trail
Forest Riders Trail
The 100-mile Forest Riders ATV Trail cuts through four state forests: Two Inlets, Smoky Hills, Paul Bunyan and White Earth. All those miles mean you’ll get a little bit of everything, from mild-mannered state forest roads winding through the forest to more difficult terrain that will challenge experienced riders. This trail also connects to the Schoolcraft and Round River trails on the north end. Distance: 100 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Park Rapids, take Highway 34 east
to County Road 4. Travel north to the intersection at County Road 24.
Season: May 1 to October
71
Highway 71. Turn west on County Road 9 for three miles then south for one block on Reverse Trail. Parking is also available at the trailheads near Lake George on Highway 71 or off of Highway 9. Season: May 1 to October 31
122
Facilities: Lake George: food, restrooms, lodging More Information: Hubbard County, 218-732-4750
Facilities: Two Inlets/ 46 89
Beltrami Island Area 24
46
40
4
32 71 TWO INLETS STATE PARK
Round River Drive Trail/ Martineau Recreational Trails
The Paul Bunyan State Forest features not one but two huge off-roading opportunities. The Round River Drive and Martineau trail systems provide over 200 miles of trails showcasing the area’s unique post-glacial moraine landscape. Amid deep pine and oak forests, riders can expect ever-changing challenges and vistas, including rocky hills, smooth meadows, moraines, ponds and pothole lakes. Martineau is OHM only and features technical and narrow single-track trails, as well as some suitable for beginners. Plan to spend at least a day exploring this beautiful part of Minnesota. Distance: Round River Drive: 107 miles; Martineau Recreational: 97 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Five and a half miles north of Akeley off
Highway 64. Turn left on Blue Trail/Steamboat Trail
Season: May 1 to October 31, with occasional closures for logging
operations
Vehicles Allowed: Round River Drive: Class 1 & 2 ATVs, OHM; Martineau
Recreational: OHM Facilities: Akeley: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Martineau Recreational Trail parking lot: restrooms More Information: Hubbard County, 218-308-2367 or 218-732-4270
22 • ATVentures 2017
Distance: 29 Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Bemidji, travel six miles south on
ITASCA ST ATE FOREST
113
Emmaville: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; camping in Paul Bunyan State Forest (near Emmaville) and in Two Inlets State Forest More Information: Tim Eischens, 218-732-5235
The 29-mile Schoolcraft ATV/OHM trail serves as a connector route between the Forest Riders ATV Trail in Lake George and the northern Paul Bunyan State Forest. But this trail has its own charms, traversing forest and township roads through hilly terrain peppered with ponds and bogs.
Vehicles Allowed:
117
31
Vehicles Allowed:
Forest Riders Trail • Round River Drive Trail/Martineau • Schoolcraft Trail • Recreational Trails • Beltrami Island State Forest • Bemis Hill Trails • Fourtown-Grygla / Con-Con Trail System • Warroad/Roseau Trails • Huntersville Trail • Agassiz Recreational Trail • Wilton Trails Northwest
Beltrami Island State Forest & Bemis Hills Trails The second-largest state forest in Minnesota offers an impressive 238 miles of off-roading trails through the deep northern woods, with 96 miles highlighted in the Bemis Hill Trails system. Once an island on glacial Lake Agassiz, Bemis Hill Trails take riders on a scenic ride through pine forests, along rocky glacial ridges and past peat bogs. The forest is classified as “managed” for motor vehicles, 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 apply. Distance: 238 miles; of which
Warroad
LAKE OF THE W OODS
ToRoseau
96 miles are Bemis Hills Trails Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): BELTRAMI IS LAND STATE FOREST From Warroad, take County Road 5 south for 11.5 miles to the Clear River Day-use Area. Access also available at Bemis RED LIKE W .M.A Hill Campground and Hayes Lake State Park. Season: Open year-round, except on groomed and signed snowmobile trails. Vehicles Allowed: (ORV allowed on forest roads)
To nt I ’l Falls
UPPER REDLAKE
Facilities: Baudette/Roseau/Warroad: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Wannaska: food, fuel More Information: Mike Klein, 218-463-4464
NORTHWEST Fourtown-Grygla & Consolidated Conservation (Con-Con) Trails On the southwest side of the Beltrami State Forest, an interconnected network of trails, including Grant-in-Aid trails, county and township roads, and ditch banks, add up to 170 miles of town-to-wilderness riding. The Fourtown-Grygla Grant-in-Aid trails, located within several state Wildlife Management Areas, connect to the Con-Con lands. Check trail conditions before you ride: This largely flat area is prone to unstable soil. Distance: 170 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): In Grygla at the intersection of Marshall
Avenue and West State Street; in Fourtown at the intersection of Highway 89 and County Road 18. Season: June 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Grygla: food, fuel, lodging; Fourtown: food, fuel More Information: Ryan Petersburg, 320-815-1996
Warroad/Roseau Trails The Warroad/Roseau Trail system provides riders with a second option through the Beltrami Island State Forest (east of the Bemis Hill Trails). Easygoing rides through the region’s low flatlands, peat bogs and pinecovered ridges make for a great way to pass the time. A picnic area and restrooms are located at the Carp’s Pit Recreation area. Distance: 89 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Warroad, take County Road 5 south
for 11.5 miles to the Clear River Day-use Area. From Roosevelt, go two and a quarter miles south on County Road 141 to Cole Forest Road. Turn west for two miles to Roosevelt-Norris Forest Road. Turn south for three miles to Carp Forest Road, then east two miles to parking area. Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Warroad: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging, camping; Williams: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Myles Hogenson, 218-689-6889
ATVentures 2017 • 23
NORTHWEST Agassiz Recreational Trails
Huntersville Trails
The Agassiz Recreational Trails are a multi-use route used by ATVs, cyclists and horseback riders. The route follows an abandoned railroad corridor between the towns of Ulen, Gary, Twin Valley and Fertile, and offers pastoral, rural and lightly wooded landscapes. Bridge crossings over the Wild Rice and Sand Hill rivers are among the highlights of this easygoing day out.
The Huntersville Trails provide a less technical alternative to the nearby Martineau Recreational Trail. This ride through the skinny pine forests is known for its rolling hills and sandy terrain. ATVs are allowed on 52 miles of area road. While much of the trails are single-track, there are two-track and service roads that make for less of a challenge, and all trails are marked with their difficulty.
Distance: 52 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access in Ulen, Twin Val-
Distance: 59 miles Difficulty: Easiest, More Difficult, Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Parking and trail access west of Hunt-
ley, Fertile and Crookston. Season: April 1 to November 30
ersville off County Road 24 or east off County Road 18. Season: Year-round
Facilities: Fertile: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Twin Valley/Ulen: food, fuel, restroom More Information: Clay County: David Overbo, 218-784-7126; Norman County: Jerilyn Swenson, 218-784-7126; Polk County: Richard Sanders, 218-470-8253
Facilities: Menahga: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Tom Umphress, 612-965-8618
Vehicles Allowed:
Vehicles Allowed:
Wilton Trails Northwest Wilton Trails Northwest provides yet another connection to the Soo Line North Trail, and runs through the towns of Wilton and Pinewood. The trail features scenic valley overlooks and several loops off the main route, including one that rides through a portion of the Mississippi Headwaters State Forest. Distance: 37 miles Difficulty: Easiest Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Bemidji: take Highway 2 west for
three miles, and turn south on Pete Lane.
Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Bemidji: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging, camping More Information: Beltrami County, 218-333-4165
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24 • ATVentures 2017
SOUTHERN
Appleton Area Recreational Park• Chatfield Trail• Elm Creek Trail • Snake Creek Trail• Southeast Minnesota Trail• Tri-County Park • Trout Valley Trail
Appleton Area Recreational Park
Elm Creek Trail
The 330-acre Appleton Area Recreational Park is located in a former gravel mine, which makes it a perfect playground for ORV enthusiasts. The park includes 20 miles of trails, many technical, as well as a motocross practice track, a training course and dunes, rock climbs and a water pit for muddy fun. The city of Appleton also allows ATVs to travel on posted roads within city limits.
The Elm Creek Trail offers a combination of five miles of gentle rural trails and an extensive open field practice area. Situated on 52 acres of private land in the prairies of southwestern Minnesota, the Elm Creek ATV Trail is suitable for riders of all levels in a picturesque setting that includes multiple crossings over Elm Creek.
way 59.
Season: Year-round Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Appleton: Food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Michael Johnson, 320-843-5341
Chatfield Trail
The 19-mile Chatfield ATV Trail is entirely on private land within the southeast corner of the state. This easy rural trail travels through farming landscapes, along streams and through hardwood forests. Please respect the local landowners who allow trails to pass through their property by riding only on the marked trails. A scramble area in an active sand quarry along the way offers additional challenges. Distance: 19 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): One mile north of Chatfield on State
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Distance: 20 miles Difficulty: Easiest, More Difficult and Most Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Appleton, go one mile east on High-
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Distance: 5 miles, 52 acres Difficulty: Easiest TO TRIMONT 190thSt. Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From I-90, take Alpha exit 80 and go 8.5 miles north on
County Road 29. Then turn right on County Road 28 for 1 mile, then right on Township Road for half a mile. Season: December 22 to September 30 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Trimont/Sherburn: food, fuel, restrooms; Jackson: food, restrooms, fuel, lodging More Information: Pat Murphy, 507-363-3151
Season: May 1 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed:
Snake Creek and Trout Valley Trails
Facilities: Chatfield: food, fuel, restrooms; Rochester: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Bernie Hammell, 507-867-4410
These trails, located in the section of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest that extends along the Mississippi River Valley, offer some of the state’s best off-road overlooks, with some of southern Minnesota’s most scenic high points along the trail. Outcroppings, rubble and a 300foot climb make this a challenging day out for more experienced riders.
Highways 74 and 30. Parking is on the right side.
ATVentures 2017 • 25
SOUTHERN Distance: Snake Creek 13 miles, Trout Valley 9 miles Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): Snake Creek: From Kellogg, go three miles
south on Highway 61. Trout Valley: From Winona, go 15 northwest on Highway 61 and then 1.7 miles southwest on County Road 29. Season: May 1 to November 1 Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Wabasha/Kellogg: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging; Minneisha: food; Winona: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: MN DNR Parks and Trails, Rochester, 507-206-2847
Southeast Minnesota Trail Capture the true essence of this region in the 13 miles the Southeast Minnesota Trail has to offer. Take in heavily wooded ravines, undulating farmland and of course, valleys. Respect the trails and signage, as portions of the trail pass through private property; be sure to also beware of cattle. Distance: 13 miles Difficulty: More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Stockton, go one mile west on High-
way 14 to parking area
Season: May 15 to October 31 Vehicles Allowed: Facilities: Stockton: food, fuel, restrooms; Winona: food, fuel, restrooms
lodging
More Information: Lee Potter, 507-450-7190
Tri-County Park An old gravel pit with steep sides near Faribault makes an ideal scramble area in which riders can practice their skills. This 25-acre park includes a safety training area and a shelter and picnic area that make a good observation deck. Distance: 25 acres Difficulty: Easiest to More Difficult Parking/Trailhead Location(s): From Faribault, go 4 miles north on Hwy. 3
to Landfill Rd. (145th Street E.), then .6 miles east to parking lot on right.
Season: Year-round Vehicles Allowed:
Facilities: Faribault/Northfield: food, fuel, restrooms, lodging More Information: Joan Trahan, Trail Administrator, 507-210-0997
26 • ATVentures 2017
SUPERIOR AND CHIPPEWA NATIONAL FORESTS Superior National Forest has more than 2,000 miles of recreational trails for all types of uses, including off-highway vehicle. The Motor Vehicle Use Maps are four separate, double-sided maps showing motorized riding trails and roads. If a road or trail you find in the forest is not on the map, it is not legal for you to ride it, regardless if others have done so. Cross-country travel is not permitted. You can also visit the website below to learn how to download a copy of the map for mobile use.
Contact information www.fs.usda.gov/superior Main Office, Duluth 218-626-4300 Chippewa National Forest has 315 miles of motorized trails. Within the Chippewa National Forest: • OHV use is allowed only on roads that are designated open for such use, as marked on the Motorized Vehicle Use Map. • Forest Service roads are identified and signed with a number at their main intersection with other roads. • Designated roads include both low standard and higher standard roads. Please show caution when sharing a road with passenger vehicle traffic.
Contact information www.fs.usda.gov/chippewa Main Office, Cass Lake 218-335-8600
Offroad Friendly Communities Each year more counties and communities open their roads to offroad vehicle traffic, allowing riders to access fuel, lodging and dining establishments. It’s a great way to support those who support offroad recreation. Places such as Gilbert, Chisholm, Silver Bay and many others allow a variety of offroad vehicles to travel within city limits. While you plan your next trip, be sure to research local rules and requirements for communities you will be visiting. Local tourism offices are a great resource, as is exploreminnesota.com.
ATVentures 2017 • 27
