This Scenic Minnesota Trail Is Even Better in the Winter

As we who live in the Land of 10,000 Lakes are aware, some things are just better in winter. I, for one, will take a bit of chill on my cheeks over slapping mosquitoes in just about any situation. Further, some beautiful places look even more magical when cloaked in a mantle of snow. Take, for example, Glendalough State Park. It's gorgeous all year long, but it just hits different in the wintertime. The best way to see what I'm talking about is to head out on the Molly Stark and Annie Battle Lakes Loop—I think it's one of the most scenic winter hikes in Minnesota.

You'll find Glenalough State Park just outside of the charming town of Battle Lake, Minnesota. Within the park, the Molly Stark and Annie Battle Lakes Loop comes in at just under 9.8 miles if you hike the whole thing—and it's fine if you want to, but I don't think it's necessary in the winter. A portion of the larger loop, however, from the north side of Annie Battle Lake to just past Sunset Lake, is paved and plowed for hiking during the winter months. Another 2-mile segment of trail along the eastern shore of Annie Battle, from the northeast parking area to the yurts, is groomed for multiple uses. Hikers must stay off the ski tracks and not venture beyond the yurts, where the trail is exclusively reserved for cross-country skiing.

You'll see plenty along these sections of the larger loop to see what I mean when I talk about how beautiful this park is in the wintertime. If you don't mind venturing off the plowed and groomed trails, there's obviously much more to see. I recommend bringing snowshoes so you can explore even farther afield without a bootful of snow. If you don't want to schlep your snowshoes or don't have your own pair, no worries—you can rent them from the park office. Ski rentals are available, as well, if you prefer gliding through the forest and along the shores of frozen lakes without the sound of crunching footfalls to break the silence.

Although plumbing is turned off in the winter months, the park's campground, rental cabins, and yurts all remain open throughout the winter. If ice fishing is your jam, be sure to bring your gear, as Annie Battle Lake is a designated heritage fishery that offers some prime angling opportunities. While you're in the area, be sure to take some time to explore Battle Lake and the area surrounding Glendalough State Park.

If you're going to do just one winter hike in Minnesota this season, I think it should be this one. Have you visited Glendalough in the winter? For seasonal updates or to make reservations, visit Glendalough State Park on the web. What are some of your favorite winter hikes in the Bold North? We'd love to hear about them over on our Nomination page.

Are you ready for more winter adventures in Minnesota? Head over Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner for some extra inspiration.