The forests that surround Land O’ Lakes become a different world in the heart of winter. Snow envelops the wilderness, lacing pine branches and blanketing the forest floor. It’s a silent and peaceful world that you can experience by cross-country ski. Just north of Land O’ Lakes, in the Ottawa National Forest, you’ll find more than seven miles of groomed trails and loops that can accommodate all levels of skiers. The trails travel through a beautiful area of hardwood forest and are well-marked, with maps at every intersection. You’ll discover some breathtaking scenery on these trails and likely run into some wildlife – the trails are popular for birdwatching.

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To get to the trails from Land O’ Lakes, by the Land O’ Lakes Public Library turn north off of County Road B onto East Duck Lake Road. Follow East Duck Lake Road through a few turns for about 2.2. miles. You’ll cross Forest Road 6320 and North Moon Lake Road before seeing a fairly large parking area on the right. You’ll find a trail entrance here and ski routes that will take you into a different world.

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In addition to cross country skiing, snowshoeing is allowed along the edges of the groomed trails and is best done on the East Side Trails because they are winder than many of the West Side Trails. 

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Dogs are allowed on the trails provided that they are kept under control, don’t interfere with the experience of others, and that they don’t significantly degrade the tracks groomed for classic skiing.