Cycle, Hike, Camp, & Ski
From wilderness adventures to business ventures, it’s naturally better here.
No matter which season is your favorite (or maybe they all are!), you’ll find iconic outdoor activities for you to enjoy because it’s naturally better here!
The Aitkin County Land Department maintains Nordic skiing or cross-country skiing on three groomed trails in the winter:
- Long Lake Conservation Center – Palisade (MN ski pass required)
- No Achen Tank Trail – Aitkin (MN ski pass required)
- Vispo Ski Trail and sledding hill – Glen (NO ski pass required) 2.3 miles of groomed trails through hardwood forests. The trailhead is located 1.75 miles north of Glen on Hwy 47, near the intersection of 298th Street and Forest Road 9-8. A sledding hill is near the parking area. The trail is also used for hiking in the spring/summer/fall.
Savanna Portage State Park provides ungroomed and groomed cross-country Nordic ski trails for both classic and skate skiing, as well as snowshoeing. Snowshoes can be rented in the park office, open from 8a–10p daily. A vehicle permit is required and may be purchased at the park office or the entry kiosk. A MN ski pass is only required on groomed trails.
In the spring, summer, and fall, there are four campgrounds with campsites that can be reserved. See Aitkin County campground map for locations.
- Aitkin Campground
- Berglund Park
- Jacobson Park (campsites and 2 rustic cabins)
- Snake River Campground
Vispo Recreation Area, 13 miles southeast of Aitkin, also offers hiking and geocaching.
If you’re looking for a paved trail experience for walking, running, or bicycling, the Aitkin City Trail loop is approximately one mile and the 5K loop is certified by the USA Track and Field Road Running Technical Council.