Skijoring and Dog-Sledding

Most of us are familiar with dog sledding, the sport where a dog or team of dogs pulls a person on a sled. Skijoring is similar, except the person is on cross-country skis. If you have a dog with some pent-up winter energy, bring it to Three Rivers Parks for fun exercise where we have designated trails for skijoring and dog sledding.

Watch a Video About Skijoring at Three Rivers

Programs & Events

Upcoming skijoring and dog-sledding programs and events.

Rules & Guidelines

Designated cross-country ski trails at Cleary Lake and Eagle Lake regional parks allow skijoring. A cross-country ski pass is required to use these trails. These trails are groomed frequently. If a ski race is scheduled at either park, the trail will be closed to skijoring. Multi-use trails at Baker, Carver, Crow-Hassan, Elm Creek and Murphy-Hanrehan park reserves do not require a pass or permit.

Multi-use trails generally will allow skijoring, dog sledding, leashed dog walking, hiking and snowshoeing. Trails are open during daylight hours only. Dog sleds with rubber wheels are allowed on snowmobile trails only at Murphy-Hanrehan and Crow-Hassan park reserves during the fall/winter season until the trails are snow-covered. A special use permit is required; call 763-559-9000.

Related Blog Posts

January 25, 2021

Learn how to stay warm this winter with these basic tips and enjoy being outside with the right clothes no matter what the thermometer says.

February 24, 2020

Skijoring is a fun winter sport you can do with your dog. Read on to learn what it is, what you need to get started, where to skijor in Three Rivers and more.

March 11, 2019

Three Rivers Park District offers ample opportunities for your dog to explore the parks. Learn some etiquette and safety tips to help ensure your visit is safe and full of tongue-hanging fun.

Other Things To Do

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country Skiing

Two women cross-country ski on a sunny day.

Three Rivers features 80 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails at various locations. Trails are available for skiers of all skill levels. Don't forget to check trail conditions before you head out.

New this season - cross-country ski equipment rentals are available online and are encouraged before arriving at the park.

Dog Trails - Off Leash

Dog Off-leash

A dog without a leash stands in an open area.

Off-leash areas are designated sites where dogs are given the freedom to run and interact with other dogs. Parks at Three Rivers have both fenced and unfenced off-leash areas where you can let your dog run while you enjoy the scenic surroundings and meet other owners.

Dog Trails - On Leash

Dog Trails

A man walks two dogs on leashes on a paved trail.

Three Rivers offers abundant scenery for you and your dog to enjoy year round, with paved, turf, regional and skijoring/dog sledding trails that are dog-friendly. Dogs must be on a six-foot non-retractable leash unless in a designated dog off-leash area. Owners must pick-up after their dogs.

Downhill Ski Area

Downhill & Telemark Skiing

Skier mule kicking in the air

Hyland Hills Ski Area and the Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek offer downhill ski areas for all skill levels, from training hills to Olympic-level training jumps. The downhill ski areas feature snowmaking and well-groomed hills for unbeatable winter fun.

Snowboarding

Snowboarding

A snowboarder rides over a pipe feature. Several others snowboarders are behind him.

Snowboarding is just one more way you can enjoy the wintry Minnesota outdoors. From group or private lessons to equipment rental to impeccably groomed hills for every skill level, the Hyland Hills Ski Area and the Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek have everything you need to carve up the slopes. 

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing

four people snowshoeing on a sunny day.

Three Rivers offers trails of varying difficulty for snowshoers of all skill levels. It’s a great way for the entire family to take in the scenes of a Minnesota winter. Please note: Snowshoeing is not permitted on cross-country ski trails unless otherwise noted.

New This Season: Snowshoe rentals require advanced reservations. Availability will vary by location.