Top 10 Scenic UTV Trails in Minnesota for Fall Foliage Rides

Hey, Minnesota adventurers! Fall in the Land of 10,000 Lakes is pure magic—crisp air, fiery reds, oranges, and golds painting the forests, and the thrill of cruising through it all on a UTV. There’s no better way to soak in the season’s beauty than hitting the trails, especially in central Minnesota where the foliage peaks from late September to mid-October. We’ve scoured the state to bring you 10 lesser-known UTV-friendly trails that’ll make your leaf-peeping unforgettable. These paths steer clear of the usual crowded spots, offering quiet corners to enjoy the season. Plus, we’ll toss in some safety tips to keep your rides smooth.

If you’re itching to gear up, Outdoorica in Albany has a lineup of UTVs, like gas-powered or electric models, perfect for these adventures. More on that later—let’s dive into the trails!

When to Go: Timing Your Fall Foliage UTV Adventure

Central Minnesota’s fall colors hit their stride in early to mid-October, with maples, oaks, and aspens stealing the show in mixed hardwood forests. Cooler nights and shorter days kickstart the spectacle, but check the Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder for real-time updates. Early mornings or late afternoons give you that golden-hour glow for killer photos, and mid-week rides dodge the weekend crowds on these quieter trails. Pack a thermos of coffee, throw on some layers, and get ready for a front-row seat to nature’s best display.

Top 10 Lesser-Known Scenic UTV Trails in Central Minnesota

We’ve handpicked trails in central MN—think Crow Wing, Cass, and Aitkin counties—that are UTV-friendly, bursting with fall color, and off the radar of bigger crowds. These are mostly Class 1 ATV/UTV routes, meaning your vehicle needs to be under 65 inches wide, so double-check DNR regulations and download their trail maps before heading out. Distances and difficulties vary, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned riders. Here’s the lineup:

Forest Riders Trail (Near Park Rapids)

This 100-mile network winds through hardwood forests, with lesser-known loops offering prime leaf-peeping. Picture vibrant maples framing rolling hills and sparkling lakesides, with connections to gems like Itasca State Park. The mix of easy and moderate terrain makes it perfect for a full day of cruising. Length: 20-50 mile loops; Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Appleton Area Recreational Park (Swift County)

A hidden treasure with 20-25 miles of trails weaving through prairies and woods. Golden aspens and open fields create a postcard-worthy backdrop, and the beginner-friendly paths are great for families. Stop at the picnic areas to savor the views. Length: 20-25 miles; Difficulty: Beginner.

Snake Creek Trail (Aitkin County)

This 13-mile trail snakes through dense forests with overlooks of Snake Creek, where fall colors reflect off the water. It’s less traveled, so you might spot deer amid the reds and oranges. The twists and turns keep things exciting for intermediate riders. Length: 13 miles; Difficulty: Intermediate.

Solana Loop (Aitkin County)

A 15-mile loop in Solana State Forest, showcasing oak and maple stands that light up in autumn. Elevation changes offer sweeping views of the foliage below. The moderate terrain is great for riders wanting a bit of challenge without going extreme. Length: 15 miles; Difficulty: Moderate.

Soo Line North Trail (Aitkin/Cass Counties)

Spanning over 100 miles, focus on the central segments near Remer for straight, scenic paths lined with aspens and pines. It’s beginner-friendly, ideal for soaking in the colors at a relaxed pace. The open stretches are perfect for group rides. Length: 20-40 mile sections; Difficulty: Easy.

Blind Lake Connector Trail (Cass County)

This 15-20 mile trail offers intimate views of lakeside foliage in a quiet corner of Cass County. Connecting to larger trail systems, it’s a peaceful escape with vibrant colors framing the water. Easy terrain makes it accessible for all skill levels. Length: 15-20 miles; Difficulty: Easy.

Pine Center Trails (Crow Wing County)

About 20 miles of loops through pine and hardwood mixes, with fall colors popping against the evergreens. The varied terrain keeps things interesting, and the lesser-known status means more solitude. Length: 20 miles; Difficulty: Moderate.

Emily-Outing Trail System (Crow Wing/Cass Counties)

With over 100 miles, this system has quieter loops near lakes and forests that burst with color. Pick the shorter segments for a laid-back ride through autumn’s best. The mix of flat and hilly paths suits intermediate riders. Length: 30-50 miles; Difficulty: Intermediate.

Moose River Trails (Cass County)

This 28-mile trail system connects to the Emily-Outing network, winding through hardwood forests with vibrant fall colors. Lakes and gentle hills offer stunning views, perfect for UTV riders seeking a relaxed yet scenic ride. Length: 28 miles; Difficulty: Easy to intermediate.

Crow Wing State Forest Trails (Crow Wing County)

Expansive forest with rivers and ridges draped in fall hues. Stick to the lesser-known spurs for a quieter ride through vibrant foliage. The mix of easy and intermediate trails makes it versatile for any group. Length: 15-30 miles; Difficulty: Easy to intermediate.

Note: Always check Minnesota DNR for current trail closures, UTV width limits (65 inches for Class 1), and registration requirements before riding.

Safety Tips for Fall UTV Rides

Safety’s non-negotiable when you’re out enjoying these trails. Here’s what you need to know to keep things fun and worry-free:

• Gear Up: Wear a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, gloves, long sleeves/pants, and over-ankle boots. Fall’s cooler temps mean layering is key, but don’t skimp on protection.
• Trail Etiquette: Stick to designated UTV trails and avoid paved roads except at crossings. Keep limbs inside the vehicle, and maintain proper tire pressure for grip on leafy paths.
• Fall Hazards: Watch for slippery leaves, especially after rain, and reduced visibility at dusk when colors are brightest. Wildlife like deer are active in fall, so slow down at crossings.
• Minnesota Rules: No alcohol on trails, and follow speed limits (usually 20-30 mph). If you’re under 16, complete a DNR ATV safety course. Always unload/load your UTV properly to avoid accidents.

For extra peace of mind, pack a first-aid kit, a charged phone, and a map or GPS app, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas.

Gear Up for the Ride

Ready to chase those fall colors? A reliable UTV makes all the difference on Minnesota’s trails. At Outdoorica, we carry models like the gas-powered Segway UT10, with 105 HP and a 1000cc engine for tackling mud and hills, or the electric Landmaster AMP, with a 50-mile range and quiet operation perfect for wildlife spotting. Both are built to handle our rugged terrain, whether you’re after power or eco-friendly cruising.

Visit our Albany showroom or give us a call at 320-281-0424 to learn more and find the right UTV for your next adventure.