Snowmobiling

Under a blanket of snow, the Chippewa National Forest becomes a land of unexplored adventures.  Over 330 miles of snowmobile trails provide snowmobilers access to 1,500 lakes, scenic woodlands, and frozen wetlands.  Trails connect to nearly 200 miles of routes surrounding the Forest.  The Soo Line trail, an old railroad grade extending from Cass Lake to Moose Lake, is the longest motorized recreation trail in Minnesota.    Snowmobilers may also travel on unplowed National Forest roads unless posted closed to recreational motor vehicle use.  Cross-country travel off of Forest roads is prohibited.   Snowmobiles must be operated in compliance with State and Federal laws and regulations. 

The sense of freedom you get while riding a snowmobile over Minnesota's snow-covered lands and frozen lakes can be very exhilarating and the Park Rapids area is a perfect place to come for that experience.  There are several hundred miles in inter-connected and groomed snowmobile trails for your riding enjoyment in and around the Park Rapids area.  Two Inlets State Forest, Paul Bunyan State Forest, Itasca West Area in Itasca State Park are all part of the trail system. Visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for more information on snowmobile regulations and winter sports.