Alerts
NPS / C. Nevalainen Winter Trails and Frozen Lakes ReportWinter Trails and Frozen Lakes Report Last Updated: January 8, 2026 Recent snowfalls have finally provided enough coverage for early‑season grooming in Voyageurs National Park, and riding conditions are shaping up nicely. Fresh snow has buried most of the chatter ice, and drifting has improved, though snow drifts are still present. Expect occasional surprises if you travel off trail! The new snow and warmer weather mean water is coming through the ice, creating wet and slushy areas on the lakes. While conditions continue to improve, hazards such as pressure ridges, slush pockets, and rough stretches remain common. Green Trail: Active pressure ridges near the Kabetogama Visitor Center required a reroute for safer travel. The hazardous ice heave has been leveled, but riders should use the safer route that has been established around it. Black Trail (Chain of Lakes): The trail is staked, but even with the recent snowfall, it remains rough and slow going. Yellow Trail to Kettle: Staked and open. Riders should be alert for slushy areas. Once slush freezes, it becomes rough and can jolt your sled unexpectedly. Mica Bay Creek Crossing on the Yellow Trail: Water is flowing through the creek, but our Maintenance team has installed a bridge to allow safe crossing. Blue & Purple Trails: These trails will be checked soon and opened as conditions allow. Ice Roads Updates: Rainy Lake Ice Road: The road is plowed up to Garrett’s Cabin, and a parking lot has been cleared at the Black Bay Ski Trail. Kabetogama Ice Road: Plowing has begun from the Ash River end toward Kabetogama. A pressure ridge near Kabetogama Visitor Center boat ramp may require using Gappa Landing instead. Campsite ClosuresFor current campsite closure information, check our Permits & Reservations page. 
J. Callais Voyageurs National Park Snowmobile Trail Hazard Alert
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Last updated: January 8, 2026