Trail Conditions: Poor
Snow Cover: 5-10 Inches
Date of Report: January 8, 2026
Area Report:
Ely Area Trail Conditions
Arrowhead State Trail, Putnam/Fishing Lakes Trails, Taconite State Trail (1/7/26): In general, there is still not enough snow on the trails to cover all the bumps, rocks, and low spots, so remain cautious and aware at all times while riding! Swamps on the trail are mostly flat and grassy, but continue to watch for holes, hummocks, and beaver dams in the swamps and exposed rocks and ground in the uplands. Riding conditions are poor.
Skiing: Tail Base: 0 Inches
Snowmobiling: Trail Base: 0 Inches, Conditions: Closed
Local Snow Depth: 5-10 Inches
Lake Vermilion Soudan Underground Mine State Park Trails(1/7/26): Closed: With the low snow, trails remain rough throughout the entire trail system. Continue to watch for hazards and ride with caution. Continue to monitor trail conditions online, as they may be changing daily, especially as we get more snow.
Snowmobiling: Trail Base: 2 Inches, Conditions: Closed
Babbitt Golf Course Trail (1/5/26): The Golf Course is groomed.
Babbitt Birch Lake Plantation (1/5/26): Ski Trails are groomed.
Bear Head Lake State Park (1/6/26): Track was set on Tuesday, January 6th with good to very good results in the campground loop, the Beach Trail, and from the Trail Center to the Ranger Station.
You can snowshoe anywhere in Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas, except on trails that are specifically designated for other activities, such as skiing or snowmobiling.
Skiing: Trail Base: 2-6 Inches, Condition: Very Good
Snowmobiling conditions: Trail Base: 1-4 Inches, Condition: Very Good
Local Snow Depth: 9-11 Inches
For the most up-to-date trail conditions, please go to the DNR trail conditions website:
(https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html)