Arrowhead State Trail

The Arrowhead State Trail is a recreational trail in the Arrowhead Region of northern Minnesota, USA, geared primarily for winter snowmobile use. It runs 135 mi from an intersection with the Taconite State Trail 10 mi west of Tower to an intersection with the Blue Ox Trail 3 mi south of International Falls. In summer about 69 mi are suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, while the northern section is blocked by areas of wetness and standing water.

The Arrowhead State Trail was authorized by the Minnesota Legislature in 1974–75. It is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Description
The northern section of the trail from International Falls to the Ash River is fairly flat, passing through forests of aspen on higher ground and spruce and ash on lower ground. The southern section is more rugged, featuring rolling hills with large, exposed boulders interspersed with many lakes and streams. This thickly wooded area is part of the Laurentian Mixed Forest Province. There are intersections with numerous local snowmobile trails. The route of the Arrowhead State Trail passes within 1 mi of Voyageurs National Park and within 10 mi of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The trail, which very roughly follows U.S. Route 53, offers nine shelters with firepits and restrooms.

Events
Since 2005 the trail has hosted the Arrowhead 135, a 135 mi extreme endurance race in which contestants are challenged to carry all of their own gear under their own power via foot, ski, or bicycle, in mid-winter.