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Chain of Lakes snowmobile trail near War Club Lake
NPS Photo/M.Goulet
Winter Trails and Frozen Lakes Report
Last Updated: December 31, 2025 Bookmark this page for weekly updates throughout the winter. But keep in mind that conditions often change faster than we can update them.
Happy New Year from Voyageurs National Park! As we welcome a fresh start to winter recreation, our team is working hard to prepare safe, enjoyable routes for everyone who loves exploring the park this time of year.
Ice Roads: Ice assessments will begin next week to determine when construction of the park’s ice roads can safely start.
Ski Trails: The park's cross‑country ski trails have minimal snow and will require more snow before they can be packed and tracked.
Snowmobile Trails:
Green Trail (Rainy Lake to Crane Lake): The trail is fully staked and packed, but grooming has not yet begun. A few more inches of snow are needed before equipment can operate safely. Portages remain rough and may be slow to navigate. Recent rain and snowfall have created a firm crust over the lake surface. While drifting snow is beginning to fill in chatter ice and pressure ridges, riders should continue to use caution in these areas.
Chain of Lakes Trail: This route is now open, with ice checked and the trail cleared. Conditions remain rough due to minimal snow cover, and exposed rocks may cause a bumpy ride.
Yellow Trail (toward Kettle Falls): Maintenance crews are actively checking ice thickness on beaver ponds and creeks. Progress will continue as ice conditions improve.
Blue & Purple Trails: Ice checking and staking will move forward as staff are able to access these areas.
Safety Reminder Ride with caution. Follow marked routes closely and avoid traveling off designated trails. Remember that ice is never 100% safe.
SNOWMOBILE TRAILS
Purple Trail (International Falls to Kettle Falls): CLOSED
Green Trail (Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River): Open - not groomed
Green Trail (Ash River to Crane Lake): Open - not groomed
Dashed Black Trail Chain of Lakes: Open - not groomed
Yellow Trail (Ash River to Kettle Falls): CLOSED
Blue Trail (East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake): CLOSED
ICE ROADS
Rainy Lake Ice Road: CLOSED
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop: CLOSED
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road: CLOSED from Kab VC to Ash River VC (10 miles)
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads: CLOSED
SKI TRAILS
Echo Bay Ski Trail: Open - not groomed
Rainy Lake Rec Trail: Open - not groomed
Black Bay Ski Trail: CLOSED
Tilson Connector Trail: Open - not groomed
SNOWSHOE TRAILS
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail: Open
Oberholtzer Trail: Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail: CLOSED
KabAsh Trail: Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail: Open
Sullivan Bay Trail: CLOSED
KABETOGAMA LAKE RECREATION AREA
Sledding Hill: CLOSED
