“Outside is where the real play begins.” “Nature’s playground is open all year round.” “Outside is the best playground there is.” We’ve all heard them, the expressions that chirp in our ears like a summer Swallow: Soak up the sun, let the outside in, and bask in the fresh air. When nature calls (no, not like that!), step onto the Soo Line Trail, your year-round outdoor playground. This scenic rail-to-trail pathway was formed in 1961 when the railroad was retired and state and local initiatives preserved it for public recreation. It stretches over 100 miles and offers outdoor play for trail lovers, Soo Line ATV riders, snowmobilers, horseback riders, hikers, bikers, and outdoor adventurers, and connects small towns, wetlands, forests, and historic rail features. On any given day of any given season, the Soo Line Minnesota trail offers fun and adventure for those who want to tap into all that invigorating air and revitalizing warmth everyone’s always talking about.

 

Where is the Soo Line Trail?

 

Great question! To get an idea of how far and wide this historic and serene corridor extends, take a look here or here. To get Soo Line Trail access in Mille Lacs County, visit the towns of Onamia, Isle, and Hillman, to name a few. They’re great jumping-off points for weekend travel itineraries because these town gems are full of unique activities and experiences. In Mille Lacs, Soo Line Trail fun starts with where you lay your head at night. Interested in camping? Pull up to family-owned and operated South Isle Family Campground. Would you rather search for resorts near all the Soo Line Trail excitement? Dive into adventure at Appledoorn’s Sunset Bay Resort, Nitti’s Hunters Point Resort or Beachside Resort, each equipped with Soo Line Trail Lodging comforts and amenities for a cozy and convenient stay. Get some rest, have a ton of fun, then ride right back onto your favorite Minnesota biking trail for a summer experience you won’t forget. 

 

Summer sun on the skin and wind in the hair is what you’ll get as you unfold your Soo Line trail map, hop on an ATV or UTV, and adventure away! If biking and hiking are more your thing, lace up your KEENs or slip into your padded shorts and go merrily on your way. After working up a sweat, soak in the good food and lakeside entertainment to round out a perfect sunny vacation day. There’s Da Boathouse, Isle Bowl & Pizza, or Mugg’s of Mille Lacs to add to your Soo Line Trail Itinerary. And there’s always a plethora of sunburned, blue-skied, feel-good events to fill your time! 

 

So, here’s your breakdown for a thrilling weekend of fun on this timeless trail with a view… 

 

Day 1: Trail ride, lunch stop, scenic outlook, town event or bonfire ✔️

Day 2: Hike, brunch, trail ride with scenic stops, bar ✔️

 

Temps will drop and snow will fall, and when they do, the Minnesota Soo Line is where you’ll find all the wintery magic. If you find yourself first in line on the frozen lake, rod in hand, and snowmobiling through powdery trails is your happy place, you won’t want to be anywhere else. Stay toasty warm as you snowmobile the Soo Line Trail, gliding along picturesque landscapes that seem to come straight from a storybook. Choose short jaunts with stops in between (try a cozy snowmobile-friendly lodge like Eddy’s Resort), or slide on your goggles and ride the full trail system. Want to hunker down in your Fair Isle sweater and spend an afternoon with the locals? It’s not hard to find a place to chow, cheer, and chat as you watch the Minnesota Vikings destroy their opponent. 

      

What to pack and know before you go! We’ll make the math easy!

 

Summer + Soo Line Trail + off-the-grid weekends = Sunglasses + hat + lightweight attire + hydration is a must, and a high SPF, waterproof sunscreen is a no-brainer. 

 

Winter + Minnesota ATV Trail + snow-dusted paths + quiet woods = Base layers + insulated, waterproof boots + high-energy trail food, and a fully charged headlamp are essential.

 

And no matter high humidity, rain, ice fog, or thundersnow, you’ll want your trail passes, maps, and of course, rules and regulations, And above all, stay safe and aware.   

 

Hear that? The Soo Line Trail is Calling! This year-round route is versatile, adventure-ready, and a place to simply take in all that makes Minnesota nothing short of spectacular. Now, go on and plan your own Soo Line journey.  We’ll see you on the trail!