Another gem for cross country skiing in the area is the Brandt Pines Ski Trail just outside of Grantsburg in Governor Knowles State Forest. You can get there by following Hwy F out of Grantsburg or by taking Larson Road North off Hwy 70, just West of Grantsburg. Take heart – it feels like you’re on the road to nowhere, but there will be great signage to help you reach your destination. And anyway, isn’t the idea of skiing in the middle of “nowhere” kind of the point?
When you arrive, you’ll find a nice parking and registration area within pristine surrounds. Since it’s a State Park, you’ll need to self register for a trail pass if you’re 16 or older. The cost is $4.00 per day or you can get an annual pass for just $20.00.
There are over 10 miles of trails designed and constructed specifically for cross-country skiers, but they’re also used by hikers in the summer months. The trails are moderately rolling and run through woodlands. You can find more information and maps on their website. http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/StateForests/govKnowles/interpretive.html
~Wanda Boldon