Find the top rated cross country skiing trails in Alexandria, whether you're looking for an easy short cross country skiing trail or a long cross country skiing trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a cross country skiing trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
Trail needs some tlc—new paving and not just bandaids. Some of the vistas are truly beautiful and the trail can be fun to ride. Did the entire trail south to north.
We started at the west end of this trail where it connects to the Central Lakes Trail and rode east about 6 miles. Trail has recently been repaved, so it was SMOOTH!!! Wish we had not done the last 10 miles of bumpy Central Lakes as we were tired and it was middle of the day and quite warm. There is little shade at the west end of the trail and no water available, so bring plenty. The trail was recently repaved - the dirt has not been built up on the sides, so be careful you don't run off the edge - it will be a BUMP! Wish we had the energy to go farther!
First time on this trail. Started from Ashby resort, just east of Ashby, Minnesota and rode west for 8 miles. Like that the trail is wide so you can safely ride next to someone and talk. However, there are stretches that are rough from cracks in pavement and root heaves. Sunny Saturday afternoon and only saw 6 other people of the trail. I did ride over a snake that I didn't see in time.
I rode from Albany to West Union. I wish there were long trails like this where I live. Very well maintained and smooth. I hope to take the north leg to the covered bridge also.
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I rode from Paynesville to Spicer. There were a few wide cracks you wouldn't want to get caught off guard but otherwise the trail is in good repair. The trail is closed just a bit past Hawick heading west but I was able to move over to the closed hwy 23 for a mile or so to detour back to the trail. Very nice summer's day ride. I would recommend riding this trail if you have the chance.
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The leaves were turning colors and the weather cool when I rode. Black top trail in good condition. It’s a combination of open areas and rides through tree lined sections. It would be a great ride year round for the property prepared.
Morrison County does a terrible job maintaining the trail. If you don’t remove fallen branches yourself, it won’t get done. During the last two summers, I have experienced most of the major trails in the state. I see all sorts of conditions, including smoothness of the trail to debris not removed. Lake Wobegon Trail, which is located mainly in Stearns County, is one of the best maintained trails in the state. The Root River Trail is also one of the best. I do not recommend the Soo Line Trail due to lack of maintenance.
Great surface, beautiful farmland. Didn’t make it to the covered bridge.
Started in Alexandria and headed west. Lake views and wildlife. Ran into crew repairing path with liquid rubber so had turn around. Well maintained and lots of scenery.
This is my first crushed rock trail and used my gravel bike, keeping tires low (~30psi) for better traction. Riding on crushed rock is noisy compared to pavement with lots more vibration transmitted through the frame which tired my arms out. Only looser gravel in a very few spots. The landscape is mostly agricultural with the usual intermittent swamps, ponds and lakes typical of Minnesota. A few trees throw shade over the path but it is mostly open.
Started in the middle at Greenwald (ample parking) proceeding northwest toward Meire Grove but the trail ended after 5 miles so I returned. Lightly travelled local roads will take you into town. Next it was SW to Elrosa. Trail had a bit more loose gravel with a couple of gopher holes but still fine. Both Greenwald and Elrosa (more ample parking) have benches to take a break but there are no services (bathrooms or water) on the trail so only gets 4 stars.
We had a great ride from Alexandria to Ashby. The trail was wide and went through beautiful country with lakes and farmland. There were some trail sections with cracks which were bothersome - but long stretches where we did not notice any cracks. Bring plenty of water as we only saw a couple of gas stations along the way (we did not go into towns). We will definitely ride on this trail again.
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