Jan 6, 2026 - Things to Do
We tried it: Minnesota's new forest ice skating trail
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I took a trip to Northland Arboretum in Baxter to try a unique spin on a classic winter activity: forest ice skating.
What to expect: The ice-covered path is around 0.5 miles long and winds through an open field and forested areas. Staff at the arboretum believe it's the first of its kind in Minnesota, though Warroad and Maple Grove have variations.
- The experience is more like lake skating than rinks — the ice can be bumpy, and small "hills" throughout may prove tricky for newer skaters. (All participants must sign waivers and helmets are strongly encouraged.)
Audrey's thought bubble: I couldn't even stand up on skates, but the born-and-raised Minnesotan I brought with me had a great time.
- However, we did drive 2.5 hours to Brainerd Lakes for a trail that took him five minutes to complete.
Details: 14250 Conservation Drive, Baxter. Open daily. Skating access is included with arboretum admission ($10 ages 15 and up, $5 ages 2-14).