10 Best Places for Cross Country Skiing in North Dakota!
Whether you’re in it for the exercise, the fresh air, or a hobby to share with the people you love, cross country skiing is always a fun way to spend a day. It’s even better when you find the perfect spot for it, so try out these top cross country skiing destinations in North Dakota.
Edgewood Nordic Ski Trails, Fargo, ND
Fargo has a beautiful network of cross country skiing trails throughout the city, but one of the local favorites is the set of trails on the Edgewood Golf Course. If you don’t have your own skis, you can even rent a pair along with your other equipment from the Edgewood Chalet.
Cross Ranch State Park, Center, ND
Cross Ranch State Park is a slice of untarnished nature in North Dakota. Its 17 miles of trails are popular among hikers during the warmer months, but when winter hits, they turn into popular trails for cross country skiing.
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, Walhalla, ND
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is always a popular choice for people who want to get out on the trails. During the warm months, those trails are used for OHVs, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. During the winter, though, they’re closed to motorized vehicles and they become fantastic for cross country skiing.
Turtle River State Park, Arvilla, ND
Looking to get away from technology and embrace nature? Head to Turtle River State Park. During the winter, it has 7.5 miles of wonderfully groomed cross country skiing trails you won’t want to miss. It even offers cabins for overnight accommodations if you want to have a quiet winter getaway.
Souris Valley Golf Course, Minot, ND
When it’s warm outside, the Souris Valley Golf Course is full of golfers of all ages hitting the links. In the winter, though, it’s all about cross country skiing. Take advantage of the course’s rolling hills for your next ski excursion.
Icelandic State Park, Cavalier, ND
North Dakota might remind you of Iceland at certain times of the year but never more so than at Icelandic State Park. The majestic 200-acre park has a four-mile trail system, and in the snowy months, much of that trail system is groomed for Nordic skiing.
The Greenway, Grand Forks, ND
For people in Grand Forks and beyond, the Greenway is one of the premier destinations for cross country skiing. When the snow sets in, the Greenway has over 15 miles of groomed trails that are perfect for skiers of all experience levels.
Lake Metigoshe State Park, Bottineau, ND
North Dakota has no shortage of exquisite parks, and Lake Metigoshe is one of them. This stunning park has two different multi-use trails, a total of 12 miles, which are well-suited to cross country skiing.
Riverwood Golf Course, Bismarck, ND
Golfers might pack up their clubs when it starts to snow but that’s when cross country skiers are just getting started at the Riverwood Golf Course. This Bismarck golf course is a beautiful haven for Nordic skiers all winter long.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, near Medora, ND
For skiers who are looking for an especially nature-focused experience, head to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The trails are ungroomed but you’ll be able to enjoy the picturesque scenery while you glide over the natural earth.