Crow Wing State Forest OHV Trails
Crow Wing State Forest is a Minnesota DNR-managed state forest encompassing approximately 29,000 acres in Crow Wing, Cass, and Morrison counties in central Minnesota: the lake country around Brainerd, Pillager, and Pine River that represents the most heavily visited recreational region in the state outside the Twin Cities metro. The forest OHV trail system covers loops and point-to-point routes through the characteristic Brainerd-area terrain: rolling glacial moraine topography with kettle lakes, mixed hardwood and conifer forest of red pine, white pine, paper birch, and aspen, and the sandy glacial outwash soil that drains well and keeps trails rideable after rain. The trail network is moderate in scale, suitable for beginner and intermediate riders with loops accessible to family groups, and emphasizes scenic lake country riding rather than technical terrain challenge. This character complements the broader Brainerd-area recreational economy: OHV trail riders can combine a Crow Wing riding weekend with boating, fishing, and camping at the adjacent Crow Wing State Park, Paul Bunyan State Forest, and the dozens of Brainerd lakes-area resorts and campgrounds. ATVs, UTVs, and off-highway motorcycles are permitted on designated trails; width restrictions apply on some single-track sections. Minnesota OHV registration is required; non-resident riders need a Minnesota non-resident OHV permit. Winter operations transition the trail system to groomed snowmobile use with the region serving as one of Minnesota's signature snowmobile destinations. DNR Brainerd Area office (218-828-2565) manages current trail status.