Afton is located in one of the most picturesque parts of Minnesota, tucked in the St. Croix river valley. After the snow melts in April, consider going mountain biking or trail running through the neighboring State Park. Turn right on County 7 Boulevard. Welch Village is worth the 45 mile drive for beginners and intermediate skiers. They do have one double black diamond trail, but the ice usually covering it posses the only real challenge for more advanced skiers.
Rental skis are in pretty good shape.
Lutsen, located north of Duluth, is not only the largest ski resort in the Midwest, but they're also ranked as the best. They boast of 30 km of cross-country and backwoods trails. Views expressed here are not necessarily those of the college community or sanctioned by Macalester College. The Mac Weekly is an uncensored, student newspaper.