DNR Question of the Week

[Lee Borgersen]

                 DNR question of the week

Q: I'd like to go cross-country skiing. How do I find out about which trails are open, and the conditions?

A: Throughout the winter, DNR personnel monitor the condition of dozens of ski and snowmobile trails maintained by the agency. Snow depth and trail condition information from Minnesota's state parks, state trails and state forests is made available on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/snow_depth.

The information is updated at least once a week on Thursdays after 2 p.m. and more frequently when conditions warrant. Available information includes a map of snow depths across Minnesota; and a trail-by-trail description of snow conditions, trail base and grooming activity. Additional location-based information such as driving and parking directions, trail maps, facilities and a landscape narrative is also provided.

Remember that all cross-country skiers age 16 and older must carry a Great Minnesota Ski Pass on ski trails in state parks or forests, or on state or grant-in-aid trails. The ski pass fee ($6/daily, $20/one-season, $55/three-season) helps support and maintain Minnesota's cross-country ski trail system.

For more information on how to purchase a pass, visit www.mndnr.gov/skiing or call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367.

- Kaija Helmetag, information officer – Parks and Trails Division