Cross-Country Skiing
Trails Info and Maps
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Click on the following links to view more information and detailed maps.
Tofte to Oberg Mountain
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Lutsen to Spruce Creek
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Deer Yard Lake to Cascade River
Sugarbush Trails
Stands of maple, the trails' namesake, wind through much of the Sugarbush Trails, accessed from Britton Peak. Wood Duck or Piece of Cake Loops are both good bets for an easy trail that is suited for beginners or families with young children. These two loops wind around the base of Britton Peak and past a small pond on gently rolling terrain.
Bridge Run and Hogback Ridge both connect with the easier loops. From the top of Hogback ridge, you'll be rewarded with a view across the Temperance River Valley toward Carlton Peak, well worth the 3.2 km trip.
If you're up for a challenge, head to Picnic Loop. It is rated difficult due to its length and terrain, which is very hilly and includes long climbs and fast descents.
Summit View and Tofte Trail
From Britton Peak, skiers can also skate or stride 1.2 km on the Summit View Trail to thee base of Carlton Peak, the second highest point in Minnesota. The peak springs form a solid granite knoll that from behind appears to be a perfectly vertical rise.
The Summit View Trail is a designated skijouring trail, so be sure to invite your canine skiing companion!
The Tofte Trail cuts off from Summit View and heads toward the shore of the Great Lake. Along this route you'll pass the north face of Carlton Peak on a continuous gradual descent to Tofte, a 4 km trek from the start point at Britton Peak.
Moosefence Trails
A 10-acre plot of white pines inspired this trail system's name is accessed from the Sawbill Trail. The plot is surrounded by a tall fence to keep moose from feeding on the plants in this area, which is maintained by the U.S. Forest Service as a research site.
The easier of the two, Upland Loop, is a relatively flat 2.4 km trail passing through a plantation of 10- to 15-year-old spruce and balsam. Rated more difficult and set on gently rolling terrain, the Maple Loop is bordered by more mature deciduous trees and newer conifer stands.
Upland Loop is a designated skijouring trail, so don't forget your four-legged skiing companion!
Oberg Mountain Trails
Hiking Oberg Mountain is a delicious treat full of overlooks at every turn. Skiing near the base of Oberg is just as fun, with a jaunt next to Oberg Lake and an exhilarating series of downhill runs ending at the base of Oberg Mountain.
From the trailhead off Onion River Road, skiers can choose three options, including a widely groomed section of road that offers a spacious skating lane and two diagonal tracks. The west side of the Oberg Loop offers easy skiing, while the east side is characterized by a long climb from Onion River Road, followed by a rush of downhill runs.
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