Alerts & Conditions

Alerts

 

Current Conditions

 
snow cover on bare ice at Ash River
snow cover on bare ice

NPS Photo/Miller

Winter Trails and Frozen Lakes Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Bookmark this page for weekly updates throughout the winter. But keep in mind that conditions often change faster than we can update them.

As Christmas Eve settles over the North Woods, the park feels especially peaceful: quiet lakes, crisp air, and the promise of deeper winter snows ahead. Whether you're out riding or simply enjoying the season, we hope the holidays bring a bit of wonder to your time in Voyageurs! Conditions across the park remain similar to last week. Riders are encouraged to stay cautious and keep alert as the weather changes.

Green Trail (Snowmobile) The first section of the Green Trail has been staked. Riders should use extra caution on the lake, where pressure ridges and sections of chatter ice have formed. Bare ice and drifts of snow are also widespread following strong winds earlier this week, creating slick and unpredictable areas along the route.

Portages and Ski Trails Snow cover remains minimal. Although portages have been packed, additional snowfall is needed before crews can begin pulling a drag to smooth and improve these routes. Cross‑country ski trails also have minimal snow and will require more snow before they can be packed and tracked. Maintenance staff will continue assessing, staking, and grooming additional trails as conditions allow.

Safety Reminder Ride with caution, especially on early‑season ice. 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): CLOSED
Dashed Black Trail Chain of Lakes: CLOSED
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

For information on the land trails in communities nearby check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates
International Voyageurs Snowmobile Club Trail Report
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Trail Reports
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Facebook Page
Polar Polers Ski Club Facebook Page

To be added to our weekly winter reports email: voya_public_affairs@nps.gov

Campsite Closures

For current campsite closure information, check our Permits & Reservations page.

 

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Last updated: December 24, 2025

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Mailing Address:

Voyageurs National Park Headquarters
360 Hwy 11 East

International Falls, MN 56649

Phone:

(218)-283-6600

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