Yesterday I rode the Willow River Fat Bike trails and found them to be in much better shape than I expected. There was almost no ice. The snow was a little glazed over on the trail surface, but my studded tires gripped tenaciously. On my second lap, the surface glaze was starting to get broken up by the studded tires, so regular non studded fat bike tires would probably work fairly well. However, I would recommend studded tires for the most fun and safety. Here are some photos of the trail conditions that I encountered. https://photos.app.goo.gl/7bvpmT2dZFQw2yHNA
Willow River State Park has some of the best winter groomed fat bike trails near the Twin Cities. This is a Wisconsin State Park and will require a vehicle admission sticker. A day pass is $13 and the annual pass is $38.
Only Fat Bikes with at least 3.8-inch-wide tires are allowed. The planned route will be 12 miles, which includes most of the groomed Fat Bike trails. There is also a 3-mile route that is much easier and flatter, for anyone wishing to do laps on a much easier route.
If anyone would rather cross-country ski, the ski trails look pretty amazing for both classic and skate skiing.
Indoor restrooms are available at the entrance station and vault toilets are available near the mountain bike trailhead.
After ride socializing with food and beverages will be at the Pitchfork Brewing Company.