Snowmobile Trails in Washington County, Minnesota

During the cold winter months in Minnesota, snowmobiling provides a form of outdoor recreation that allows users to enjoy the fresh air and the thrill of speeding across the land. Over 22,000 miles of marked trails run throughout the state, with over 200 miles in Washington County. Snowmobilers must have a vehicle registered in Minnesota or their home state in order to ride.

  1. Washington County Clubs

    • Washington County is home to 10 snowmobile clubs. They are in Stillwater, Forest Lake, Hugo, Newport/Woodberry, Chemolite and Bayport. The mission of the clubs is to maintain the snowmobile trails in the county and to promote the recreational activity. Clubs hold regular meetings throughout the fall and winter and sponsor club rides and classes. To join a club, contact the secretary, who will provide you with details and instructions.

    Trail Areas

    • The Washington County Star Trail (see Resources) is a network of over 200 miles of trails that runs throughout the area. The 10 snowmobile clubs within the county mark and maintain the trails throughout the winter. Washington County sanctions the trails, which receive funding from the state. Trails are on county, state and private lands. Access to the Washington County Star Trail network is from the Washington County Fairgrounds parking lot.

    Regulations

    • Those riding on the Washington County snowmobile trails must never exceed 50 miles per hour. You must stay on the trails at all times. Many of the trails run through private land, and venturing off-trail means you are trespassing. All riders must have a snowmobile state trail sticker on the machine, which is obtainable from the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The use of snowmobiles with studs is not permitted in certain areas of the trails. Check a map ahead of time to find the specific locations. Any violation of these rules can result in ticketing.

    Safety

    • The Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association recommends several safety tips when riding. Do not use alcohol or drugs when operating a snowmobile, because they can significantly impair your judgment. Check with the Washington Star Trail clubs to find trail conditions before heading out. Stay on marked trails. Riders born after Dec. 31, 1976, are required to take a Snowmobile Safety Certification course. Local clubs in the county as well as the DNR offer these courses throughout the season.