Activities & Services
in the Area

People enjoy using recreational motor vehicles (all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and off-road vehicles) for trail-riding, off-road transportation, competition and other activities. Your attitude toward your surroundings and your behavior as a rider affect the attitudes of other outdoor users, landowners and lawmakers. Ride responsibly!

If you tread lightly on the environment, are courteous to others, respect private property and obey the law, you are contributing to the positive image of recreational motor vehicle activities. Responsible riders are also safe riders. Be sure to wear appropriate protective gear and maintain your machine. Don't take chances that endanger yourself or others.

Remember, the future of off-road riding in Minnesota depends on your responsible behavior today.

OHV regulations for youth riders

Everyone under age 18 who is a passenger on or operator of an ATV must wear a DOT-certified helmet.  

Emily to Outing Trail

• 21234 Mill Rd, Emily MN 56447

• 30 miles

• This trail features:

  • Connections to multiple-use recreation trails to the north including the Moose River Trail and Soo Line North.

  • A variety of terrain from rocky and hilly to flat and open.

  • ATV travel allowed within city limits on designated routes.

Fort Ripley Trail

• 123 Sebie Trl, Fort Ripley MN 56449

• 14 miles

• This trail features:

  • Primarily flat and easy riding with an occasional rolling hill.

  • Narrow and winding trails through oak and pine covered hills near Sebie Lake.

  • Connected to the Southern Loop Trail.

Miller Black Bear Trail

• 23501 Iverson Rd, Ironton MN 56455

• 32 miles

• This trail features:

  • Scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River.

  • Located within historic mining area with rich cultural heritage.

  • Six scenic sites with picnic tables and grills.

  • Mine Pit Lake with trout fishing opportunities at the southern parking area.

Pine Center Trail

• 24537 County Road 2, Brainerd MN 56401

• 20 miles

• This trail features:

  • Rocky terrain with a variety of inclines and declines.

  • Rolling hills and a mixture of oak and maple trees.

  • Excellent opportunities to spot wildlife.

  • Connected to the Southern Loop Trail

Southern Loop Trail

• 10122 Thiesse Rd, Brainerd MN 56401

• 79 miles

• This trail features:

  • Connections to two other motorized trail systems: Pine Center Trail and Fort Ripley Trail.

  • Access to the City of Brainerd

  • Scenic farm and country landscapes.

Mississippi River Northwoods Trail

• 14676 State Highway 210, Brainerd MN 56401

• 11 miles

• This trail features:

  • Connections to the Miller Hills Off Highway Motorcycle Trail and the Mississippi River.

  • A variety of terrain from rocky and hilly to flat and open.

  • ATV/OHV travel is only allowed on signed, designated trails

Emily Blind Lake Connector

• 40278 S Bay Drive, Emily MN 56447

• 15.5 miles

• This trail features:

  • Connections to the multiple-use recreation trails including the Emily-Outing Trail and the Blind Lake Trail.

  • Located along and in a variety of natural forest and wetland environments.

We’ve got plenty of trails, so don’t forget to bring the bikes. The Cuyuna Lake State Trail system offers 40 miles of mountain bike trails – including 30 different routes ranging from beginner to advanced.

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Take advantage of all of the nature in the Brainerd Lakes Area with a walk or a hike on a local hiking trail. Many of the hiking/walking trails feature amenities such as benches and roadside stops. There are many paved hiking trails such as the famous Paul Bunyan Trail, as well as rustic hikes through the woods or near the lakes.

• ‍ Veterans Hiking Trail - Jenkins (2.9 miles):
  This walking trail located on County Road 16, East of Jenkins, features a 500' bog walk to a small island. Follow the island loop for another 1/4 mile to view a shrub swamp and scenic overlook.

• ‍ Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area - Crosslake (3.1 Miles):
  The 110 acres of gently rolling woods and wetlands of the Uppgaard Wildlife Management area offer great habitat for white-tailed deer, western painted turtles, ruffed grouse, blue heron, broad-winged hawks, and summer butterflies. This WMA is Minnesota's first "Landscaping for Wildlife Demonstration Area".

• ‍ Paul Bunyan Trail Access - Nisswa (10.4 miles):
  The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long, not including a couple of short on-road connections through the cities of Baxter and Bemidji. Extending all the the way from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, north of Bemidji, it is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country.

• ‍ Fritz Loven Park - Lake Shore (11.5 miles):
  The 1.6-mile loop trail follows the Stony Brook and offers breathtaking views. Use the covered pavilion for shade and comfort. Take advantage of the grills for a family barbecue. A playground provides entertainment for younger visitors. The gentle trails make it easy for kids to explore nature safely.

• ‍Crosslake Community Center Trail- South Bay Park - Crosslake (4.3 miles):
  The City of Crosslake has been given a rare opportunity to establish a park on property leased from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. The 26 acres of land located off of Perkins Road includes approximately 2,800 feet of shoreline. Park Amenities Include a small parking area, walking trails, green space, viewing vista of South Bay.

• ‍Crosslake Community Center Community Park- Nordic Ridge Trail - Crosslake (4.3 miles):
  Offers a ski trail, snowshoe trail and a walking trail.

• ‍Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower Park - Pequot Lakes (5.1 miles):
  Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park in Pequot Lakes, MN is a historic park featuring a well-preserved fire tower built in 1935. The park offers over 3,000 feet of walking trails with interpretive signage, a vaulted toilet, and a large picnic shelter. It is open year-round and located approximately one mile east of downtown Pequot Lakes.

• ‍Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area - Ironton (16.2 miles):
  The Cuyuna Lakes State Trail is eight miles of paved trail within the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area from Crosby to Riverton. One mile passes through the City of Aitkin along State Highway 169. Abandoned by mining companies more than 35 years ago, the state recreation area contains six natural lakes, plus an additional 15 deep lakes that were former mine pits. Stop to fish, explore the Croft Mine, or ride the new 25-mile single track mountain bike trail system.

• ‍Foot Hills State Forest - Backus (19.0 miles):
  Foot Hills State Forest's proximity to the metropolitan areas of St. Cloud and the Twin Cities make it a popular recreation spot. The trail system in Foot Hills State Forest is used for hiking and OHV riding in the summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.

• ‍Pillsbury State Forest - Nisswa (19 miles):
  The trails at Pillsbury State Forest meander through a heavy forested area consisting of a variety of deciduous and coniferous trees. The woods are dotted with small lakes and ponds where you're likely to see evidence of beavers and other wildlife. You may also find several varieties of wildflowers, including the yellow lady's-slipper.

• ‍Northland Arboretum - Brainerd (21 miles):
  The Northland Arboretum boasts nearly 20 kilometers (12 miles) of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing with nearly 5 kilometers lighted for evening skiing. The trails are designed to accommodate all ages and skill levels and are considered among the best in Minnesota.

• Crow Wing State Park - Brainerd (27.4 miles):
  Park highlights include camping, fishing, scenic hiking trails, historic sites, canoeing /Mississippi River, great wildlife watching. Visit the historic Old Crow Wing town site, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Crow Wing rivers. Signs share the story of this frontier town in the mid-1800s. Start from the picnic area parking lot. From the boat landing, climb the stairs to Chippewa Lookout. Stand high atop the Mississippi River for distant views.

• Pequot Lakes Historical Society

  For history enthusiasts looking to uncover the secrets and stories of the past, visiting the Pequot Lakes Area Historical Society is a must. Located in beautiful north-central Minnesota, this organization strives to preserve the history, artifacts and records of local history through our in-person displays at the museum and online digital collection.

  Our facility is located in the Cole Memorial Building at 4285 Tower Square in Pequot Lakes, Minnesota. You can arrange a tour by emailing us at PequotHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or call 218-568-2199 and leave a message. A volunteer will return your call and inquiry as soon as possible.

  Founded in 1997 by several history-loving locals, the Pequot Lakes Area Historical Society provides an excellent resource for anyone interested in finding out more about this community’s past – from our local neighbors to our neighbors around the world. From historical buildings on Main Street to families histories documented in county records, the Pequot Lakes Area Historical Society has explored it all – bringing history to life with exhibits, recorded stories from generations before us and incredibly helpful staff ready to answer any questions you might have.

• Northern MN Railroad Heritage Association

  We are a group of seniors (55+) with a passion for model railroading and railroad history. The organization was originally formed in March of 2006 as the Northern Trackers Railroad Club. To more accurately reflect the larger scope of what we have become, the name was changed in the fall of 2010 and today the “Trackers” are now a part of the Northern Minnesota Railroad Heritage Association.

   The NMRHA operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the discovery, preservation, and presentation of the rich heritage and importance of the railroad industry in Northern Minnesota.

  ​Stop in to see the exhibits on display in the museum!  O, HO and G Scale layouts are running.  We're adding a new N Scale layout, too!  Come see the progress and changes on all the layouts!

• Nisswa Area Historical Society

  Enjoy a self guided tour of the Nisswa History Center and Museum which includes the historic Pioneer Village, Depot and Caboose. Nisswa is filled with rich history with Native American roots, logging and railroad industry, resorts and restaurants all of which contributed in making Nisswa the number one destination place in the summer months. By touring the grounds and log homes, you will have a glimpse of a quieter, more peaceful--but hard working life at the turn of the century. Take time to relax in the seating area alongside the Heritage Garden which is filled with native plants that come from local farms and gardens from over 75 years ago.
  
  After your tour, make sure you stop by the small gift shop which is filled with art and crafts from local artisans. These items are unique and sold only in our gift shop.
  
  The Majestic Pines Artisans and Crafters Market every June
  The Fall Artisan's and Crafters Market every September
  Rental space is available for weddings, family reunions, small parties. For further information please call (218) 963-3570.
  
  Admission to the History Center and Museum which includes the Pioneer Village, Caboose, and Depot is $4.00 for those over 10, $3.00 for children 5-10. Children under 5 are free

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PEQUOT LAKES:

• Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park

• Bobber Park

• Gildner Park

• Mayo Lake Nature Preserve

• Pequot Lakes Dog Park

• Sibley Lake Park

• Trailside Park

• Paul Park

• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway

CROSSLAKE:

• Pine River Overlook Park

• South Bay Park

• Community Park

Ole's Shuttle Service | Brainerd Lakes Area

Ole's Shuttle Service, your go-to choice for safe and sober rides in the beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area of Minnesota! Ole's Shuttle Service is proud to offer convenient and dependable shuttle services for a variety of occasions, from local bar hops to private events, weddings, corporate outings, and golf trips. They understand that safe rides save lives, and they are committed to providing safe and reliable transportation for our customers.

​Are you in need of a safe ride to and from local bars in Gull Lake, Breezy Point, or Crosslake? Look no further! Ole's Shuttle Service provides round-trip service from your cabin, resort, or hotel to your bar of choice, ensuring you can enjoy a night out without worrying about transportation. The experienced drivers at Ole's Shuttle Service will make sure you arrive safely and comfortably at your destination, and when you're ready to head back, they'll be there to bring you back to your lodging.

​In addition to bar hops, Ole's Shuttle Service also offers shuttle services for private events, pub crawls, weddings, corporate events, and golf trips. Their spacious shuttles can accommodate groups of various sizes, making them the perfect choice for group transportation in the Brainerd Lakes area. Ole's Shuttle Service takes pride in their prompt and reliable service, and their friendly drivers will go the extra mile to ensure your experience with them is enjoyable and stress-free.

​Founded in 2010, Ole's Shuttle Service has established itself as the #1 choice for group transportation in the Brainerd Lakes area. They are committed to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable rides for their customers, and they prioritize your satisfaction above all else. When you choose Ole's Shuttle Service, you can trust that you are in capable hands.

​For more information or to book a ride, please visit their website at olesshuttleservice.com or give them a call at:

• Gull Lake: 218-821-1615

• Breezy and Crosslake: 218-851-2009

• SAFE RIDE USDOT 2057825

​Let Ole's Shuttle Service take care of your transportation needs in the Brainerd Lakes Area, so you can focus on enjoying your outing with peace of mind. Choose Ole's Shuttle Service for convenient and dependable transportation services today! Remember, safe rides save lives.