Submitted photo Two new recreational trails are now ready to be used for snowshoeing, walking, fat-tire biking and other non-motorized recreational uses at Beaver Falls and Skalbekken County Parks in Renville County.

RENVILLE COUNTY — New recreation trails in Beaver Falls and Skalbekken County Parks are ready to be used for snowshoeing, walking, fat-tire biking, and other non-motorized recreational uses.

Due to the low amount of snowfall to date, parallel ski tracks have not yet been set for cross-country skiing. When they are ready, it will be announced on the Renville County Parks Facebook page and county website.

“The trails will be groomed with two sets of parallel ski tracks, allowing for two people to classic ski on one half of the track,” said Renville County Parks Manager Jesse Diehn. “The other half will be hard packed for walking, snowshoeing and other non-motorized uses. With an expanding interest in outdoor winter recreation, we thought it’d be a really great opportunity to offer this new activity in the parks.”

Trails follow the park road in both parks, two miles in Beaver Falls and 1.5 miles in Skalbekken Park.

“People are excited about the trails. In seven days, our survey response showed 155 of 191 respondents said they would use the park,” added Diehn. “It’s a great thing to do with COVID-19. It’s outside and away from people.”

Visitors are encouraged to park in the Skalbekken horse camp and at the Beaver Falls south entrance. Trail route maps are posted at all trail entrances, along the route, and are available to print online at renvillecountymn.com.

Park shelters and restrooms are available for use. County park entrance and groomed trail use is free for day use.

“After surveying the public to see if they would use groomed trails in county parks, and with a majority response of ‘yes,’ we are excited to offer this new activity in Renville County,” said Janette Wertish, Renville County HRA/EDA Board chairwoman.

Trail grooming will take place as needed to keep trails in good condition. The trails are a result of collaboration between the Renville County HRA/EDA and Renville County Parks Departments.

Visit the county website or like “Renville County Parks” on Facebook for trail condition updates.

For more information, call 320-523-3747.

Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com.