Glide across the frozen beauty of Gunflint Lake on our Nordic skating trails, a truly unique winter experience in the Minnesota Northwoods. At Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, we’ve worked hard to create and maintain an incredible network of ice trails, offering skaters a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the wilderness in a way few ever do.
There are over 6 miles of maintained trails linking Gunflint Lodge with our neighboring resorts: Gunflint Pines, and Borderland Lodge. The last we checked, this is the longest skate lane in the United States and the only one that runs along an international border! Our scenic routes take you across the open lake and through sheltered bays, offering a mix of wide-open skating and protected paths that are less affected by wind and drifting snow. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, our trails are perfect for all skill levels.
What Is Wild Ice Skating?
Wild ice skating is the exhilarating experience of skating on naturally formed ice found on lakes, ponds, or rivers, rather than on man-made rinks. It occurs when a body of water freezes over under the right conditions—typically early in the winter season before heavy snowfall—creating a smooth, glass-like surface that allows for effortless gliding. Unlike traditional rink skating, wild ice skating offers a unique sense of freedom, adventure, and connection to nature. Skating on wild ice can be breathtaking, with crystal-clear ice revealing frozen bubbles, cracks, and even fish swimming below.
Conditions & Maintenance
Winter weather is always changing, and our team works diligently to maintain the trails. After snowfall, we get out as soon as possible to clear drifts and reopen routes. While some areas may be temporarily covered by fresh snow, we do our best to keep as many miles open as possible. The availability of wild ice skating depends on conditions, so you may want to call to check conditions before your arrive. If conditions don’t permit lake skating, we do also maintain a small skating rink outside the Lodge.
Rentals & Accessibility
No skates? No problem! Nordic ice skates are available for rental at Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters. Nordic ice skates are specialized skates designed for long-distance skating on natural ice, such as frozen lakes and rivers. They consist of a long, lightweight blade that attaches to cross-country ski boots using a binding system, allowing skaters to glide efficiently over rough or uneven ice surfaces. The longer blade provides better stability, speed, and glide compared to traditional figure or hockey skates, making them ideal for wild ice skating.
Learn about the Nordic skates, the ice trail, and how to Nordic skate with Kenny from WDIO as he traveled up to Gunflint Lodge to try out Nordic Skating.
Check online for current trail conditions or contact Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters today.
