Nearest Town: Aitkin

The No Achen Bicentennial Ski Trail has a series of cross-county ski trails covering 15.0 km (6.3 miles) maintained by the Aitkin County Land Department, consisting of mostly intermediate level trails. The trails wind around several small lakes and through forest, bogs, and meadows. Locally known as the “Tank Trails” from the days when the property was owned by the National Guard and used as a tank training area.

Beginning at the Cemetery Road parking lot, the path wanders through mixed deciduous woods and over a series of hills. There are a couple of small fields located about a mile from the trailhead. This beautiful area is alive with bird song. The first part of the trail consists of three loop trails doubling back to the start of the trail, so you can vary your travels. Several unnamed lakes and Lily Lake, Tarr Lake and Blue Lake all are near the trails. During a spring migration hike it is possible to find species such as, Mourning Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Ovenbird, Black-and-white Warbler, Nashville Warbler, American Redstart, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Least Flycatcher, Purple Finch, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Ruffed Grouse, American Woodcock, Pileated Woodpecker, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager, Veery, Brown Thrasher and Barred Owl. Unexpected birds seen here have included Orchard Oriole and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. The nearby Lakeview Cemetery and Pickerel Lake are worth checking out for birds during migration. Mammals here include White-tailed Deer, Porcupine and Raccoon.

The ski trail is open when the snow is on the ground and closes when the snow cover makes skiing no longer possible, usually from December 1 to March 31. Trail maps located along the trail. Trail access courtesy of private property owners, please stay on designated trails and respect private property. Minnesota Ski pass required during ski season. Hiking is allowed on the trails during summer months.

Directions: Located from Aitkin one mile west on State Highway 210, then .7 mile south on 422nd Place (Cemetery Road), parking lot on the east side of road.

Contact Information: Aitkin County Land Department, 209 – 2nd Street NW, Aitkin, MN 56431, Phone: 218-927-7364, E-mail: acld@co.aitkin.mn.us.