14 Best Minnesota MN Snowmobile Trails: Winter Adventure

Staying up to date on Minnesota snowmobiling laws ensures a safe, legal, and hassle-free ride.

Snowmobile Safety Tips and Precautions

In addition to following the law, practicing smart snowmobiling keeps riders safe in Minnesota’s unpredictable winter conditions. Important safety guidelines include:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet and goggles or face shield to prevent head injuries.
• Choose proper protective clothing like jackets, bibs, boots, gloves, and layers rated for sub-zero temps.
• Ride within your abilities and comfort level based on conditions.
• Watch your speed based on visibility, crowds, corners, and hills.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs which impair judgment.
• Ride in groups and share your route with someone. Carry emergency supplies.
• Check trail reports and weather forecasts before heading out.
• Look out for hard-to-see fences, wires, and road crossings hidden under snow.

Staying alert, riding defensively, and putting safety first ensures you’ll have many more epic Minnesota sledding adventures for years to come. Now let’s look at 14 of the best places to snowmobile in Minnesota this winter!

1. C.J. Ramstad/North Shore State Trail

The C.J. Ramstad/North Shore State Trail follows the scenic shoreline of Lake Superior for 194 miles, making it one of Minnesota’s most beautiful snowmobiling trails.

Starting just outside Duluth, this groomed trail runs the entire North Shore up to the Canadian border. Riders cruise along cliffs overlooking the frigid Lake Superior waters and pass thundering waterfalls pouring over rock ledges. You’ll traverse thick forests dotted with historic lodges and charming towns that serve as rest stops along the way.

With long stretches right along the lakeshore, you can’t beat the views on the C.J. Ramstad trail. The challenging terrain offers everything from steep climbs to narrow lake crossings. Make sure to stop at popular sights like Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Palisade Head.

The North Shore’s frequent lake effect snow and cold temps make for excellent snowmobiling conditions into spring. Just be ready for potential whiteout visibility during storms off the Big Lake. This spectacular trail should top every Minnesota snowmobiler’s bucket list!

2. Paul Bunyan State Trail

At over 100 miles long, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is one of the longest groomed snowmobile trails in Minnesota.

This scenic trail runs from Brainerd up to Bemidji, following the old railroad route of the Paul Bunyan line. Most of the trail is on state-owned land with a well-packed, wide base perfect for cruising.

The Paul Bunyan Trail winds through classic northern Minnesota terrain of lakes, wetlands, and thick forests. Snowmobilers share sections of the trail with cross-country skiers, offering a family-friendly atmosphere. Numerous road crossings provide access to small towns with restaurants, gas stations, and lodging if needed.

While not as remote as some trails, the Paul Bunyan offers a quintessential Minnesota snowmobiling experience. Connecting to the Heartland Trail, riders can log 100+ mile loops on groomed trails. Watch for moose and other wildlife along this incredible snowmobiling route through the north woods.

3. Taconite State Trail

Stretching 227 miles across northern Minnesota from Grand Rapids to Ely, the Taconite State Trail provides riders with remote wilderness adventure. Most of the trail runs through Superior National Forest, far from major roads or development.

The Taconite Trail features beautiful but rugged terrain with challenging hills, sharp corners, and twisting routes. Riders get breathtaking views of northern Minnesota’s lakes and landscapes from vantage points along the trail. Moose sightings are common in the dense surrounding forest.

Well-suited for experienced snowmobilers, the Taconite Trail is not as wide or frequently groomed as other Minnesota trails. Sections follow old railroad grades, while others wind over hills and across frozen lakes. Quality snow cover can vary, so check conditions first.

The trail connects Itasca and Bear Head Lake State Parks, both offering camping and amenities for overnight snowmobile trips. If you seek solitude and scenery through remote public lands, add the Taconite Trail to your Minnesota snowmobiling bucket list.

4. Arrowhead State Trail

Running 136 miles from International Falls to Hibbing, the Arrowhead State Trail provides easy access to services while still offering immersive northwoods riding. Most of the route parallels the Big Fork River, taking sledders through forests and wetlands in the heart of the Arrowhead region.

With its proximity to several small towns, the Arrowhead Trail offers plenty of opportunities to fuel up or grab a warm meal along the way. Small portions of the trail follow township and county roads, but most sections trace their way through quiet state forests and frozen swamplands.

Groomed regularly, the Arrowhead Trail provides a wide, easy-to-follow path for casual trail riding near population centers. Scenery may be less dramatic than the North Shore, but plentiful snow in these northern forests still makes for a beautiful snowmobiling backdrop. Riders of all skill levels will enjoy cruising down this northeastern Minnesota trail.

5. Heartland State Trail

At just 49 miles long, the Heartland State Trail may be short on mileage but not on scenery. This family-friendly route connects Park Rapids and Cass Lake, passing through the heart of Minnesota’s lake country. Surrounded by pristine forest, abundant wildlife, and frozen wetlands, the Heartland Trail exemplifies classic north woods riding.

Most of the trail follows an abandoned railroad grade, offering a wide, groomed path perfect for novice snowmobilers. The Heartland Trail features beautiful backdrops, but lacks major hills or technical challenges. Several road crossings provide access to neighboring towns for supplies or lodging.

The main highlight is the trailhead junction where the Heartland Trail connects to the Paul Bunyan Trail outside of Walker. Linking the two routes allows snowmobilers to plan out longer adventures or loop rides. With its family-friendly length and terrain, the Heartland Trail serves as a perfect intro to snowmobiling in Minnesota.

6. Grant-In-Aid Snowmobile Trails

In addition to state-operated trails, Minnesota has an extensive network of “grant-in-aid” trails spanning over 22,000 miles. Managed by local snowmobile clubs, these trails crisscross public and private land on corridors secured by easements. Grant-in-aid trails provide the backbone of Minnesota’s massive snowmobile system.

Winding through scenic forests, following lake shores, and connecting small towns, grant-in-aid trails offer snowmobilers freedom to explore off the beaten path. Trail conditions vary from rough backcountry routes to widely groomed highways catering to large sleds. Difficulty ranges from easy to extremely challenging.

With so many grant-in-aid trails, sledders can find routes to suit their style and skills. Club-hosted trail guides, maps, and apps help navigate this sprawling network. Grant-in-aid trails bring riders closer to nature and deliver quintessential Minnesota snowmobiling. Just be prepared for more variable signage, grooming, and surfaces.

7. Superior National Forest Trails

For snowmobilers seeking true backcountry adventure, it’s tough to beat the remote trails crisscrossing Superior National Forest. Encompassing over 1,000 miles of designated routes, these lightly groomed and rustic trails provide access to stunning sections of the Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness and surrounding forest.

Superior National Forest trails allow snowmobilers to immerse themselves in silent northern wilderness. Dedicated riders can access extremely remote areas and link together routes for deep forest multiday adventures. The forest service offers warming huts for shelter along certain backcountry trails as well.

With its notorious cold, lake effect snow, and largely untamed terrain, Superior National Forest is a snowmobiler’s dream. Trails here epitomize the allure and challenge of off-grid winter adventure. Just know what you’re getting into before venturing into the backcountry!

8. Chippewa National Forest Trails

Covering north central Minnesota, the Chippewa National Forest provides riders over 670 miles of snowmobile trails winding through its heavily wooded landscape. Gentle hills and rolling terrain make for scenic trail riding at all skill levels.

Cruising through dense pine forests or crossing frozen lakes and wetlands, snowmobilers on Chippewa National Forest trails immerse themselves in tranquil wilderness. The remote setting allows for excellent moose, deer, wolf, and other wildlife viewing while sledding.

Compared to Superior National Forest, Chippewa features better grooming and easier terrain overall. Trails like the Moose River Route offer flatter, wider paths catering to families and novice riders. More advanced trails still exist for those seeking greater challenges. With its plentiful snow and varied trail options, Chippewa National Forest is worth the trip for Minnesota snowmobilers.

9. George Washington State Forest Trails

In far southeastern Minnesota, the George Washington State Forest maintains over 130 miles of snowmobile trails winding through rugged hills and scenic hardwood forests. With its location off the typical sledder beaten path, these trails deliver beautiful winter scenery without the crowds.

Forested slopes, frozen lakes, and wetland crossings provide gorgeous views along the trails. The rolling landscape provides enough ups and downs to keep rides exciting while avoiding extremely technical terrain. Connecting routes allow for day rides up to 60 miles roundtrip.

While not as vast as other Minnesota trail systems, the George Washington State Forest trails still deliver an abundance of winter beauty ripe for exploring by snowmobile. For riders based in southeast Minnesota or western Wisconsin, it’s a great option to avoid the crowds up north while still enjoying superb snow conditions.

10. Root River State Trail

If you’re new to snowmobiling or looking for a family-friendly trail, check out the 60 mile Root River State Trail. This easy Minnesota route connects the towns of Lanesboro and Whalan, following the Root River and its tributaries through scenic bluff country.

Well-suited to beginners and youth riders, the Root River Trail features a wide, smoothly groomed path with no technical challenges or steep grades. Several road crossings provide access to restaurants, gas stations, lodging, and other establishments in the nearby towns.

The trail delivers stunning winter views as it winds through the snowy Root River Valley. Blufftop vistas and frequent eagle sightings add to the allure of snowmobiling here. Several loop options exist, allowing rides from 10 to over 60 miles. For an easy, scenic intro to snowmobiling, try the family-friendly Root River State Trail.

11. Gandy Dancer Trail

Riders who enjoy cruising longer distances will love the Gandy Dancer Trail. At 98 miles, it’s one of the longest linear snowmobiling routes in Minnesota. Starting near Danbury, WI, it stretches east to St. Croix State Park following an old railroad grade.

While not the most technical, the Gandy Dancer Trail does have some rolling hills and winding segments to add character to the long straight stretches. The scenic trail meanders alongside the scenic St. Croix River Valley. Well-groomed and wider than most trails, it provides an interstate for snowmobiles to cover serious ground.

Another perk of the Gandy Dancer is its direct connection to an extensive network of other trails in northwest Wisconsin that could easily extend trips to 200+ miles. For groups who enjoy sledding between stops for food and fuel, the Gandy Dancer serves as an ideal starting point for an epic multi-day journey by snowmobile.

12. Central Lakes State Trail

At 55 miles long, the Central Lakes State Trail provides the perfect snowmobiling weekend getaway in central Minnesota. The well-groomed trail stretches from Osakis through Alexandria to Fergus Falls, following an abandoned railroad corridor. Several parks along the route offer parking, restrooms, and overnight camping access.

The Central Lakes Trail balances easy cruising over level terrain with beautiful scenery through the rolling Minnesota countryside. Dense hardwood forests open up to provide stunning vistas across prairie-like frozen lakes. The trail connects directly to Whitefish Lake at several points.

With its proximity to towns like Osakis, Garfield, and Nelson, sledders on the Central Lakes Trail can easily fuel up, warm up over a meal, or even stay overnight in a hotel after a day on the trails. For scenic snowmobiling not far off the beaten path, check out this family-friendly central Minnesota route.

13. Gunflint Trail

Some of Minnesota’s most breathtaking snowmobiling scenery awaits on the Gunflint Trail outside Grand Marais. Riding along the edge of the Boundary Waters, it packs stunning winter wilderness into its 150-mile length.

Running from Grand Marais to Saganaga Lake, this iconic route offers incredible views of the Sawtooth Mountains and frozen expanses of Lake Superior. Stop for a warm up or night’s stay at any of the historic lodges dotting the trail. Riders can also access backcountry trails spoking deeper in Superior National Forest.

With its scenic shoreline vistas, iconic lodges, and access to incredible Boundary Waters wilderness, the Gunflint Trail deserves a spot on every Minnesota snowmobiler’s must-ride list. Just be prepared for remote conditions requiring proper survival gear in case you get stuck out here. The views and adventure are worth it!

14. North Shore State Trail

We’ve hit the C.J. Ramstad section, but the North Shore State Trail extends up the shoreline beyond Duluth all the way to Grand Portage. At over 150 miles, the full trail provides breathtaking Lake Superior views around every bend.

From the cliffs and waterfalls near Duluth to the Sawbill Trail along the wilderness border, the entire North Shore Trail epitomizes the essence of Minnesota snowmobiling. Dramatic vistas across the frigid lake, scenic forests, and the historic towns that serve as rest points along the way all combine to deliver an unbeatable snowy shoreline experience.

With its reputation for early season snow and incredibly scenic views, the North Shore State Trail deserves top billing on any list of Minnesota’s best snowmobiling trails. Riding along Lake Superior through forests and waterfalls encapsulates everything magical about exploring Minnesota on a snowmobile.

Conclusion

From remote backcountry routes to family-friendly groomed trails, Minnesota’s vast snowmobile trail system offers exhilarating winter adventure for riders of all interests and abilities.

Follow the tips above to pick the best Minnesota snowmobile trails to match your experience level and riding style. Equip your sled and body for the extreme cold. Ensure you understand trail regulations and permits. And most importantly, prioritize snowmobiling safety.

With endless options spanning scenery from the Great Lakes to secluded northwoods, there’s no better place to go snowmobiling than Minnesota. Get out and enjoy miles of winter freedom on some of America’s best snowmobile trails. Just be sure to layer up for the frigid temps! Have an epic season and check back as we continue covering everything you need to know about Minnesota snowmobiling.