A field in northern Kanabec County marks the beginning of Vasaloppet history: the first cross-country ski race was held there in 1973. Vasaloppet features seven races: Vasa, Dala, Bell Ringer, Team, Classic, 1/2 Classic, and Miniloppet. This brings together the historic start on a field and a program with several formats. This contrast is part of what makes Kanabec County so appealing: the region appears both as the site of the first race and as part of a cross-country skiing tradition that has grown over time.
From the race’s origins to groomed trails
Cross-country skiing also includes the Vasaloppet Nordic Center, with more than 13 kilometers of groomed ski trails. This distance adds another dimension to the race formats: it refers to the length of the groomed trails, not the distance of a single race. Those interested in the sporting side will find the Nordic Center’s specific trail offerings alongside the history. This makes the story and the activity distinct ways to experience cross-country skiing.
Paddle the Snake River
The Snake River State Water Trail offers a different scale: an 84-mile paddling route from the McGrath area to its confluence with the St. Croix River State Water Trail. Also held here is the Snake River Canoe Race, a 15-mile paddling event that starts north of Mora. The comparison highlights two types of paddling: an extensive State Water Trail route or a race with a designated course. Dates and registration details for the recurring race may change; check the information for the specific event before taking part.
Nine aluminum canoes are available to rent for the Snake River Canoe Race for $60; paddles and life jackets are included in the price. Buses and canoe trailers transport participants and canoes to the starting point. Bus transportation is free. The number of rental canoes, price, and race-day transportation may change, so check the details for the specific event.
Bike routes with different distances
The Mora Bike Tour offers two route lengths to choose from: 25 or 50 miles, both through Kanabec County. The Mora Kids Bike Tour follows the Mora city bike path and covers approximately 4.5 miles in total. The offerings differ in both length and the routes described: two rides through the county and a shorter route of approximately 4.5 miles on a city bike path. Dates and registration details may change; check the current information for the specific tour before taking part.
History at the Kanabec History Center
The Kanabec History Center preserves and shares the county’s history through three-dimensional objects, documented accounts of families, organizations, and events, newspapers, vital records, and photographs. For in-depth research, the archive provides access to Kanabec County newspapers, vital records, plat maps, photographs, and other historical materials. The collection includes different kinds of records of the county’s history; the archive lists specific materials that you can explore. If you plan to visit the archive, check the current visitor procedures in advance.
Snake River State Forest
Snake River State Forest lies in the northeastern part of Kanabec County and is largely undeveloped. The Snake River State Water Trail, along with hunting and hiking trails, are considered the best access points to the forest. The two descriptions complement each other: a paddling route with a designated course and a largely undeveloped forest whose best access points are the Water Trail, hunting trails, and hiking trails. This brings out different landscape and activity perspectives along the Snake River.
Discover more destinations: Mora, Winona County, Murray, Clearwater County, Cass County, Martin County, Blue Earth County, Douglas County.
For the broader travel overview: Minnesota.
