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No
other area is as central to the state's 14,000 miles of trails than
Bemidji, Minnesota. As the crossroads city for two of the major
Minnesota Interconnecting Trail System routes, MITS-71 and MITS-2,
superb trails that run across or up and down the state, run right
through Bemidji. Riders are guaranteed connections to virtually
any place in the state because the MITS trail link up with hundreds
of spur trails. Groomed and well-marked, these trails will lead
you to forests harboring red and white pines more than 300 years
old, Indian reservations and the headwaters of the Mississippi.
The
MITS-71 actually consists of two major trails, the Paul Bunyan Trail
running 100 miles between Bemidji and Brainerd, and the Blue Ox
Trail, running 110 miles north from Bemidji to International Falls,
Winnipeg and beyond. Quaint towns and great scenery are enjoyed
along the way. Combined, Paul Bunyan/Blue Ox network is considered
to be the longest rail conversion to recreation trail in America.
For
studded snowmobiles, less than five miles of trail are stud restricted.
Easily accessible alternative routes have been arranged.
Excellent
Grooming
The consistent high-quality of Bemidji's trails is due to the efforts
of the North Country Snowmobile Club, 400+ members strong. Groomed
trails are well-marked with directional and caution signs. Maps
are available: 1-800-458-2223.
Most
Challenging Ride
The variety of terrain found in the Bemidji area makes the trails
not only scenic, but challenging. Thrill to trails dashing across
1,000 frozen lakes, along the Continental Divide, over bogs, beside
rushing streams, up rolling hills and through snow-draped forests.
Most
Scenic Rides
One especially scenic loop off the Blue Ox is to jump onto the Buena
Vista Trail in Buena Vista State Forest. Or head south on the Itasca
and Becida Trails to the most famous and appealing Itasca State
Park, site of the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Here you
can enjoy historic sites and countless trails.
Snowmobile
Rentals
Out-of-state snowmobilers need to check on trail fees. Trail permits
are available at retail businesses with electronic licensing equipment.
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