north shore trail conditions
Trail conditions and trail reports are essential resources for anyone planning an outdoor adventure on the North Shore of Minnesota, including the scenic trails around Grand Marais. This region is renowned for its rugged landscapes, including the Sawtooth Mountains, and massive presence of Lake Superior. Before heading out, checking the latest trail conditions ensures that you’re prepared for any obstacles, such as muddy paths, downed trees, or seasonal closures that could affect your journey.
Find out about recent snowfall, trail conditions and suggestions for where to ski, snowshoe, snowmobile . Snow varies from less near Lake Superior, where the big lake keeps temps slightly milder to more on the hills rising out of Lake Superior to most when you go over the ridge.
How Long is Winter?
Snowfall begins in October, coming and going and usually beginning to stick late in November. Lutsen Mountains typically is open Thanksgiving weekend with a few runs and cross country skiers get their first runs in on the Onion River Road in Lutsen and along the Central Trail system up the Gunflint.
all of the north shore Trail Reports
Trail reports often include updates on trail maintenance projects, and water levels at stream crossings, and depth of ice on inland lakes, providing valuable insights for a safe and enjoyable experience. These reports are particularly useful early and late season when conditions can vary.
Staying informed about trail conditions not only enhances your adventure but also helps protect the trails and surrounding environment by encouraging responsible use.
Winter Activities
winter 2024/25 season
The North Shore has Snow!
friday, February 28
We have had wet heavy snow falling on and off since late last night or early this morning; Snowfall looks like a few inches along the lake and five or more inches inland. Groomers are out and the trails should be in excellent shape for the weekend.
All trails are open and in good to very good condition. Most trails have a 6″+ base. Freezing temps at night and warmer days means conditions will change throughout the day. Plan accordingly
We will be posting grooming reports as they come in.
mile 0.0
– Last Update:
CJ Ramstad / North Shore MN Snowmobile Trail Conditions
Above normal temperatures are melting snow and deteriorating the trail. The trail from Duluth to Two Harbors is in poor condition. The trail from Two Harbors to Schroeder is in fair condition but will not be groomed due to lack of base. The trail from Schroeder to Grand Marais is in good condition and will be groomed this weekend. Expect to see bare spots on the hills, valleys, and corners along the entire trail. Please watch for icy spots on the trail and in the corners. Expect spring riding conditions. The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon starts Sunday March 2nd Two Harbors and runs the entire length of the CJ Ramstad North Shore State Trail through Wednesday March 5th. The trail remains OPEN to snowmobiling however EXTREME CAUTION IS NEEDED WHILE RIDING. Use caution in the Tofte area, on trail sections that share the road with Forest Road 166/Cross River 600 Road. Watch for trucks hauling on the shared trail as there is a winter timber harvest in progress.
mile 14.9
Cross-country Ski Duluth MN | Korkki Nordic Trails
– Last Update:
Cross-country Ski Duluth MN | Korkki Nordic Trails
This mid winter warm up is not what we had hoped for the week before the Eric Judeen. We are keeping a close eye on snow potential for Thursday night and into Friday. If we get a couple of inches of snow hopefully we will be able to run the Eric Judeen classic race this coming Sunday, March 2. Stay tuned for race updates coming on Friday! Think snow!!
mile 27.8
Two Harbors Snowmobile Trail Conditions
– Last Update:
Two Harbors Snowmobile Trail Conditions / Voyageur Trail System
As of February 24, 2025 we have discontinued grooming due to warm weather and the lack of snow. The Yukon Trail, Two Harbors Corridor, and Gooseberry Spur are open but please ride with caution, corners are not good and there are bare spots.
mile 39.5
– Last Update:
Gooseberry Falls Winter Trails
Ski trail conditions: poor
Snowmobiling conditions: poor
Above average temperatures in recent days have decimated the trails. Expect bare spots on trail sections near Lake Superior and on south facing aspects. Conditions in the morning will likely be icy and soft in the afternoon. More snow will be needed to groom.
Trails run along the beautiful Lake Superior shoreline offering rolling hillsides and scenic vistas.
You can snowshoe anywhere in Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas, except on trails that are specifically groomed for another activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
mile 46.0
– Last Update:
Split Rock Lighthouse Snow Conditions
We’ve had a lot of snow melt over the past 2 days; the Gitchee-Gami trail may be thin in some spots. For trails with more of a base, try the Merrill Logging Trail on the inland side of the park. Our trails are multi-use, and a ski permit is not required. Snowshoes are available for rent at the State Park Office.
You can snowshoe anywhere in Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas, except on trails that are specifically groomed for another activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
mile 54.9
– Last Update:
Finland and Silver Bay Snowmobile Trail
Trail conditions are pretty good.
All trails except the Black Beach Inn and Twin Lake Spurs were groomed Feb 17-18.
Ride Right and Ride Safe.
mile 58.5
– Last Update:
Tettegouche Park MN Trail Conditions
Ski trail conditions: Fair
Snowmobiling conditions: Fair
Warm weather is negatively impacting our trails. Expect icy conditions in some areas.
Trails have many ups and down, traveling through both birch, aspen and conifer forests. There are lakes and overlooks through out the trail.
You can snowshoe anywhere in Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas, except on trails that are specifically groomed for another activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
mile 58.9
Flathorn Gegoka Ski & Fat Tire Bike Trails
– Last Update:
Ski & Fat Tire Bike Trails Conditions
I will say it again: What a difference a day makes. Last night, we received a light covering of new snow, so I took my waxable skis out (my preferred skies) and wasn’t disappointed with my choice. The covering of snow freshened the forest and provided fast but not out-of-control tracks/glide. I used a softer kick wax, which gave me plenty of kick. Grooming plans: We plan on grooming on Saturday morning.
Note: New trailhead at Jensen and Hwy 1 (Flathorn trailhead closed indefinitely due to last summer’s major rain event that washed away 3 of our 4 critical bridges.).
mile 80.4
Temperance River Park Snow Conditions
– Last Update:
Temperance River Park Snow Conditions
No groomed trails. The trails are not groomed but provide opportunities for back country skiing and snowshoeing.
mile 82.5
– Last Update:
Sugarbush Trail Conditions
Depth (Base snow depth on trail): 2-6″
Snowfall Last 24 Hours: 1/2″
Snowfall Last 7 Days: 1/2″
Total Snowfall for the season: 52 1/2″
Snowfall Average Depth (Snow depth off trail in the woods): 12″
We had 3 days of above freezing temperatures, so the snow pack is reduced somewhat. We will be able to groom, when the temperatures get cold enough.
mile 90.5
– Last Update:
Lutsen Mountains Snow Report
Lutsen Mountains is open daily from December 6 to April 6, offering winter enthusiasts a chance to enjoy the slopes throughout the season.
Additionally, there will be extended weekend hours on April 11-13, 2025.
Following weekends such as Easter weekend operations from April 18-20 & April 26, 27, and May 3 may be added if conditions permit. Stay tuned as we near April!
Join us for unforgettable winter fun during these exciting periods!
Snowfall in last 48 hours: 9″
mile 92.7
Snowmobile Trail Conditions MN | Lutsen-Tofte
– Last Update:
Snowmobile Trail Conditions MN | Lutsen
We have had some new snow since Saturday, and the Trail Conditions continue to improve. All Trails have been groomed again this week. Off-trail conditions are also Improving with knee-deep snow in most places. Reports from riders are that the Grant-in-Aid trails are in great shape.
Snowmobile Trail Conditions MN | Tofte
Our trails are groomed and ready! A few ice patches here and there but otherwise the recent snow has been good to us! Remember Have Fun and Be Safe. Folks of all ages enjoy these trails.
mile 99.6
– Last Update:
Trail Conditions Cross-country ski & Fat Tire Bike
Most East End trails groomed Saturday 2/22.
West End trails groomed Thursday 2/20.
50″ Total Snowfall
mile 99.8
– Last Update:
Cascade River State Park Trail Conditions
Ski trail conditions: Very Good
Snow Depth: 19″
Trails were packed and groomed 2/19/2025. As a reminder, it is unlawful to damage any part of the groomed ski trails, so please do not walk, snowshoe, take pets, etc on any part of the ski trail.
The trail is consistent with the North Shore topography; cliffs intermixed with forest land. All types of wildlife can be seen along the trail. Ski trails range from easy to difficult. One loop is available for the less experienced skier. Trails connect to other local trails outside the park.
You can snowshoe anywhere in Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas, except on trails that are specifically groomed for another activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
mile 109.2
– Last Update:
Grand Marais Trail Conditions | Pincushion
mile 109.3
– Last Update:
Gunflint Trail Conditions | Snowmobile
Mar 1st: Annual Trout Derby on Gunflint Lake
Mar 8th Snowmobile Drag Races at Poplar Haus!
Mar 17th St Patricks Day at Up Yonder
gunflint mile 6.5
George Washington Pines Trail Report | Ski & Snowshoe
– Last Update:
George Washington Pines Trail Report
Trail Base: 10″
We did several rounds of packing and set a track, making for some really nice skiing and hiking conditions. The trail has really smoothed out with not a lot of vegetation sticking up. Please snowshoe single-file to keep out of classic tracks and pick up after your pet
gunflint mile 25.0
– Last Update:
Central Gunflint Trail Ski Conditions
New Snow Last 48 hours:  .25”
New Snow Last 7 days:  3.50”
Trail Base, Staked:  Average 10” – 15”
Snow in Woods, Staked:  Average 16” – 20”
Groomed with classic track:Â 80 km
Groomed with skate lane:Â Â 76 km
Surface Conditions:Â Â Fresh snow
Last grooming day:Â Â 2-22-25
Total season snowfall: 47.50”
Comments: We groomed everything on the evening of the 19th and then re-groomed the trails on the north side of Flour again on the evening of the 21st. The lake crossings and skijoring trail were groomed fresh again this morning (22nd). Excellent skiing everywhere out there right now, and enjoyable temperatures too!
Grooming frequently occurs between the release of new trail reports. For the most up to date grooming information, as well specific trail conditions, please contact Golden Eagle Lodge (218-388-2203) or Bearskin Lodge (218-388-2292). Central Gunflint Ski Pass Required.
gunflint mile 28.0
– Last Update:
Wilderness Gunflint Ski Trails
About 20-28″ in snow depth in the woods and 6-8″ trail base.
Our Most Excellent Grooming team just now completed grooming (single track Nordic) Banadad Trail. (1st km from the East End Trailhead.)
gunflint mile 41.6
– Last Update:
Gunflint Lodge Trail Conditions
Hello Trail Enthusiasts,
We got out early to groom the ski trails. The overnight temperatures are keeping the snow in good shape and we really haven’t lost any of the base. The trails groomed up really well. The skate deck is firm with a good grip and the classic tracks are deep and setting up well.
The trails groomed this morning were Big Pine, Little Pine, Amperage, Lonely Lake, Overlook, Highlands, Ham Lake, North Star and Upper West End. All were groomed with a skate deck and a classic track.
The skate trails currently have pooling water. We are staying off them until the water on top refreezes. Once they are firm again, we will get them in shape to resume skating.
see specific trail updates
mile 143.9
Grand Portage Snowmobile Trail Reports
– Last Update:
Snowmobile Trail Reports
Fair to Good Conditions.
Information available at Grand Portage Lodge Front Desk; 218-475-2401
mile 150.8
– Last Update:
State Park Snowshoe Trails
No current report.
Winter Activities
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