Nordic Skiing in a winter wonderland
Once the temperatures drop below freezing and the snow begins to fly, those looking to enjoy winter's white wonderland may take to the trails on nordic skis.
There are plenty of area cross-country ski trails.
All cross-country skiers on public ski trails who are aged 16 and above must have a Minnesota Ski Pass. You must sign your ski pass and carry it with you when skiing. Your ski pass fee helps support Minnesota's cross-country ski trail system.
To purchase a pass you may go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/skiing/index.html or ask our front-desk staff about where to purchase a pass in person.
A pass is required on all grant-in-aid trails. The fee goes toward helping local, county and state organizations maintain the trails. Trails are maintained by the Itasca County Park and Trail Department, Chippewa National Forest, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Trails and Waterways division and the Northern Lights Ski Club volunteers.
The Blueberry Hills ski trail is an intermediate to expert level 12 kilometer ski trail located nearby. To get there from White Oak, head north on Highway 6 for 2 miles, 3 miles east on Chase Lake Road, then right half a mile into the trailhead building which is often heated on weekend afternoons. This trail is open to skate and classic skiers.