Brainerd, MN

On the Paul Bunyan Trail

Copyright Suzanne M. Thomas

Looking for an antidote to cabin fever? A winter sports adventure on Minnesota's Paul Bunyan Trail may be just what the "fun doctor" ordered.

Like a broad, snowy freeway, the 100-mile path links a dozen small towns between Brainerd and Bemidji. In warm weather, the converted railbed is one of Minnesota's best hiking and bicycling trails. But come winter, it's a glimmering-white canvas for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding...you name it.

The trail hugs State Hwy 371, making it easy for older family members to travel by car. Whether riding or gliding, you'll get to stop in small logging towns with shops selling locally-made woolens and handicrafts, and at cozy lodges, where steaming bowls of home made soup and blazing fireplaces warm up the chilliest little snowmen.