New cross-country ski trailhead in northern Minnesota is open

The new trailhead parking lot can accommodate more vehicles. (All photos courtesy Friends of Flathorn-Gegoka Trail)

The USFS – Superior National Forest, in partnership with the Friends of the Flathorn-Gegoka (FFGT), recently completed a new trailhead and parking lot. The area is a cross-country skier’s haven, featuring over 29 kilometers of classic trails through the woods. Heavy flooding last summer pushed the project forward when bridges along part of the trail were damaged.

Multiple trail improvements

In the summer of 2024, heavy rainfall and flooding damaged several bridges along the trail, disrupting access to key parts of the trail system. These bridges were vital for connecting skiers to the main routes. As a result, the Flathorn Lake Trailhead parking lot is no longer accessible. The FFGT reported that the Forest Service has applied for disaster relief to build new bridges, anticipating that all trails will be ready and accessible by the 2026 ski season.

To ensure the trail was ready for the 2024/2025 ski season, the Forest Service and FFGT worked quickly to build a new and improved access point on Jensen Road. The project was completed just in time for the first snowfall.

Ryan Blaisdell, a recreation specialist for the Gunflint and Tofte ranger districts, told the Minnesota Star Tribune that the flood damage “cut off access for a significant group of skiers.” It turned out that the trailhead project was already underway before the flooding occurred. The USFS had already been working with the organization to plan, design, and construct the second trailhead. He went on to add, “We were very fortunate that we were already in the process of opening a new trailhead and parking area for the trail system.”

The new trailhead is off of MN State Hwy 1 and Jensen Trail (FR 949B). (Map @Caltopo, OpenStreet Map contributors)

Trails wind through boreal forest

The Flathorn-Gegoka Ski Trails wind through dense stands of boreal forest near the town of Isabella. A group of outdoor enthusiasts originally established the trails in 1973 to enhance recreational opportunities in the region. Since then, they have become a popular destination for skiers, anglers and hikers. They are adjacent to the historic National Forest Lodge, which opened in the late 1970s.

Spanning 29 kilometers, the classic-style ski trails cater to all skill levels with varying difficulty. The trails consist of gently rolling trails that wind through dense forests of old white pines, open bog-like areas, and remote lakes. A ski shelter and pit toilets are also available near the trail.

In celebration of the new trailhead, Friends of the Flathorn-Gegoka Trail have invited the public to a ribbon cutting at the new Jensen Trailhead on January 18 at 12:30 PM. The event will include refreshments and activities for kids.