recreation
Lake of the Woods is built for people who want to be outside — moving, exploring, and experiencing the north country in every season. From forest roads and backcountry trails to open water, winter routes, and scenic byways, the region offers outdoor adventures that range from rugged to relaxed. Whether you’re chasing miles, solitude, speed, or scenery, Lake of the Woods delivers room to roam and experiences that feel genuinely untamed.
ATV
Lake of the Woods ATV trails offer miles of scenic riding through forests, wetlands, and wide-open North Country terrain. Connect established trail systems with remote backroads and gravel stretches that let you explore at your own pace. With varied landscapes, minimal traffic, and routes suited for casual riders and seasoned enthusiasts alike, it’s the kind of big-country ATV experience that keeps the throttle steady and the adventure rolling.
BIKING
Lake of the Woods mountain bike trails deliver long forest-road loops, steady mileage, and room to push your pace. Ride out from Faunce State Forest Campground, where you can link roads into custom routes and build anything from a quick spin to an all-day effort without traffic or crowds. It’s big terrain, clean air, wide-open sky, and the kind of ride that leaves your legs satisfied and your mind clear.
CANOE OR KAYAK
Canoeing and kayaking at Lake of the Woods bring paddlers into some of the region’s most scenic waters. Explore gentle loops around Baudette Bay or wildlife-rich Zippel Bay State Park, meander Silver Creek, or take on the historic Rapid River route. From quiet marshes to winding river corridors, the area delivers open-water serenity and memorable paddling experiences.
cross country skiing
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Lake of the Woods open up miles of quiet winter landscape. Glide groomed trails at Zippel Bay State Park or trek peaceful forest routes through pine, spruce, and birch. Whether you prefer smooth tracks or a slower snowshoe pace, winter recreation here offers fresh air, scenic beauty, and classic Northwoods adventure.
GOLF
We are proud to invite you to the Oak Harbor Golf Course which is situated along the Rainy River, challenging both U.S. and Canadian golf enthusiasts.
HUNTING
Lake of the Woods has some of the best hunting in the world for deer, bear, waterfowl, three species of grouse, and more!
MOTORCYCLE
Minnesota’s northernmost scenic drive travels from Voyageurs National Park along the Canadian border. Ideal for motorcycling, anglers, boaters, birders and wildflower lovers, the route runs along the Rainy River from International Falls to Baudette, through fields of lady’s slippers from Baudette to Warroad, and along the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail west of Warroad.
SNOWMOBILE
Lake of the Woods snowmobiling delivers some of the best trails in Minnesota, with hundreds of miles of connected routes, many of which are groomed. Ride through dense forests, across open stretches, and along frozen shorelines as local clubs maintain smooth, well-marked trails throughout the season. With long distances, scenic variety, and reliable winter conditions, it’s a big-country snowmobile experience built for serious mileage and unforgettable days on the snow.