GREAT OUTDOORS EMBRACE THE WINTER WITH CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING By Rachel Yang When winter rolls around, snow sports are some of my favorite cures for cabin fever. And because I live in Minneapolis, I don’t have to look far to find my winter wonderland: With 20 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails to explore, Minneapolis’ Theodore Wirth Park offers a breath of icy-fresh air for competitive and recreational skiers alike, all winter long. Just north of downtown Minneapolis, Wirth is the Twin Cities’ cross-country skiing hub. During the winter months, the park’s lush golf course transforms into an expansive blanket of ski-ready snow, featuring rolling hills, tranquil meadows and charming views of the Minneapolis skyline. THE PARK’S LUSH GOLF COURSE TRANSFORMS INTO A BLANKET OF SKI-READY SNOW. When I’m looking for a tough uphill workout, I hit the Ridgeline and 18 trails on the north side of the park. When I’m just trying to get out of the house for a snowglobe-esque experience, I stick to the flatter Green Meadow Loop or JD Rivers Trail. Skis and poles are available for rent at The Trailhead , the park’s entry point for all things winter sports. This is also where you can purchase a day or season pass, which you’ll need to ski any Minneapolis trail. First-timer? Sign up for a ski lesson; The Trailhead offers them for adults and kids. Cross-country skiing at Theodore Wirth Park Photo by Waqar Ahmad EXPLORE THE GUNFLINT TRAIL For a true Up North experience, venture north to ski the Gunflint Trail. This 400-km network of groomed trails cuts through the stark beauty of the Superior National Forest and is considered one of the state’s best cross-country destinations. Adventurous skiers might enjoy roving off-trail to explore the Boundary Waters, or even mapping a multi-day excursion to ski the trail from end-to-end. Golden Eagle Resort on the Gunflint Trail Bundle up and discover more ways to embrace the Minnesota winter! MORE WINTER SPORTS ExploreMinnesota.com/WinterSports 34 | EXPLORE MINNESOTA .COM
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2021 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 34
