Giants Ridge Cross Country Skiing: Trail Maps & Guide

Giants Ridge has long been a Minnesota Nordic ski destination, offering an impressive 63 kilometers of world-class Nordic ski trails that wind through the pristine Superior National Forest. What began as a training center for U.S. Ski Team athletes has evolved into one of the most comprehensive cross-country ski destinations in the Midwest, perfect for skiers of all ages and abilities.

Trail System Overview

The expansive nordic trail system at Giants Ridge offers a variety of terrain that caters to every skill level. The system includes:

• Easy trails perfect for beginners and families
• Intermediate routes for those seeking a moderate challenge
• Expert trails that once tested Olympic hopefuls
• A 3-kilometer lighted trail for evening skiing

Trail Conditions and Grooming

Giants Ridge takes pride in maintaining excellent trail conditions throughout the season. The resort employs state-of-the-art Ginzu and PistenBully grooming equipment to ensure optimal skiing conditions. Trails are groomed regularly for both classic and skate skiing, with detailed grooming reports updated daily on the Giants Ridge website.

Trail Maps and Navigation

The trail system at Giants Ridge is meticulously organized into three difficulty levels, with each trail carefully maintained and monitored throughout the season. All trails are regularly groomed using state-of-the-art PistenBully and Ginzu equipment for optimal skiing conditions.

Easier Trails

• Stadium – Professionally groomed training area, perfect starting point for beginners
• Northern Lights (3km) – Lighted trail for evening skiing
• Summit (6km) – Gentle terrain with spectacular vistas
• Wynne Creek (4km) – Beginner-friendly terrain, ideal for learning
• Bronze (6km) – Excellent learning trail with varied terrain
• Biwabik Spur (6km) – Peaceful forest trail perfect for families
• Oslo (5km) – closed for the 2024-2025 season

More Difficult Trails

• Laurentian (4km) – Challenging climbs with rewarding views
• Silver (10km) – Popular intermediate trail with diverse terrain, groomed for both classic and skate skiing

Most Difficult Trails

• Cedar (5km) – Technical trail with exciting descents
• Gold (14km) – The crown jewel of Giants Ridge’s expert trails, formerly used by Olympic hopefuls

Rates and Passes

Giants Ridge offers flexible pricing options to accommodate different schedules and budgets:

Daily Trail Passes

• Adult: $18
• Child: $10
• Night skiing: $11 (adults), $10 (children)

Season Passes

• Adult (Age 13+): $99
• Child (7-12): $49
• Family options available starting at $198

Amenities and Services

The lodge at Giants Ridge will be a welcoming base camp for adventure. You’ll find everything needed for a perfect day on the trails! At the well-equipped rental center, you can rent complete rental equipment for both classic and skate skiing.

Professional instructors are always available to help newcomers learn the basics or help experienced skiers refine their technique.

And when you’re ready for a break, the lodge welcomes you back with on-site dining options to refuel after your adventure!

Location and Access

Located in Biwabik, Minnesota, Giants Ridge Resort provides easy access to some of the best Nordic skiing in the Midwest. The resort’s address is 6329 Wynne Creek Drive, Biwabik, MN 55708.

Weather and Trail Conditions

Before heading out, check the current trail report and weather conditions on the Giants Ridge website. The resort maintains detailed track reports including trail status (open/closed), grooming conditions, track setting details, and recent grooming dates and times.

Events and Racing

Giants Ridge regularly hosts competitive events throughout the winter season, including:

• High school competitions
• Citizen races
• Training camps
• Special events for all skill levels

Check out the full list of upcoming events. 

Whether you’re an experienced Nordic skier or just starting out, Giants Ridge offers a world-class cross country skiing experience in the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range. The combination of professional grooming, extensive trail options, and excellent amenities makes it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.