Ski Trails
The ski trails on the Babbitt Golf Course are groomed for classic skiing and skate skiing and in excellent condition. Parking is available in the main golf course parking area. Since the snowmobile trail has been routed across the main golf course entrance, please use extra caution while entering or exiting the parking area. The golf course offers over 2 miles of groomed trails for your enjoyment. The City of Babbitt funds the trail grooming through the Recreation Commission and is coordinated and groomed by the volunteer efforts of the Babbitt Snowmobile/ATV/Ski club. There is no ski pass required on the golf course. The golf course management has asked that we stay off the greens to prevent damage over the winter. Snowmobiles are not permitted on the golf course at any time, as well. The city street crew does a great job of keeping the parking area cleared of snow.
The Birch Lake Plantation ski trail system is groomed for classic skiing and in excellent condition since we finally received adequate snowfall. The plantation provides about 5 miles of trails and is funded by a MN DNR annual grant in cooperation with the USFS and groomed by the volunteer efforts of the Babbitt Snowmobile/ATV/Ski Club. A MN DNR State ski pass is required for the Birch Lake Plantation trails. One year and three year passes are available at any DNR licensing terminal such as Blomberg's, Just-Bite-Me-Bait in Babbitt, and Piragis, MN DMV office, etc. in Ely. Opportunities to observe wildlife in the beautiful scenery of the plantation is abundant.
Birch Lake Beach
The Babbitt beach is a great place for the entire family! It is situated on 36.88 acres, with a 1,040 sq. ft. beach house equipped with changing rooms for men and women, restrooms, a lifeguard room, a first-aid storage room, and a concession stand. There is an additional restroom facility located outside the beach house.
The beach area has (2) Bongo Rave rafts with launch and (1) Whoosh water slide for summer fun. The park has sixteen picnic tables, three cement round tables, twelve outdoor grills, various playground equipment for all age groups, picnic shelters with electric power, and four light poles with electric outlets.
The boat landing area has two boat docks, a water ski dock, and three fishing docks. A paved bike and hike trail connects the City of Babbitt to the beach area and is enjoyed by young and old alike.
Little League Field
Softball Complex
The complex is about 12.80 acres with two baseball fields. A 384 sq. foot building houses a concession stand with running water, storage area and restrooms. The complex is enclosed by fencing, has four sets of bleachers, a playground with a slide and two sets of jumpers for the kids enjoyment, and two picnic tables.
Function: General public use for men, women, teens and children. The facility is capable of holding events like girls softball, T-ball, Babe Ruth League, church groups, men's softball and baseball.
Parks
Central Boulevard Park (located on Central Blvd)
The City has updated the children's playground, located across from the Shopping Center, with new playground equipment. Picnic tables with shelter and benches are also located here for family fun. The City Parks and Beautification Board maintain beautiful flower gardens close by for everyone's enjoyment.
Municipal Park (located behind the Municipal Center) The City has a park directly behind the Municpal Center with a swing set, large slide, jungle gym, and other equipment. The park is conveniently located directly by the Little League Field and close to City Hall Offices.
Fountain Hill Park (located on Central Boulevard)
This 2.75 acre park has shelters with four picnic tables, benches, and electric power outlets. It also has walking paths, trees, a volleyball court, a basketball court, a horseshoe pit, a sliding hill, and a pond with a fountain and lights. Function: General public use, walking, sliding or just relaxing
Babbitt Fishing Pier
In 2000, the City of Babbitt and the Babbitt Lion's Club funded a 104' handicapped accessible fishing pier at Birch Lake beach area. It is located 2.5 miles east of Babbitt where walleye, bass, panfish, and northerns are caught.
Vermilion Community College, Lions members and U.S.F.S. in Ely assisted with the excavation and landscaping around the pier.
Youth Center
A new Youth Center has been constructed in the Babbitt Municipal Center. Pool tables, foosball, card tables, gymnasium activities, etc. are available for multi-age groups with prearranged scheduling. The Center was painted by the kids with a style of their own. New furniture was purchased for comfort and lounging. In addition to the furniture, there are (4) Sony LCD TV's and new Wii and 360 X Box games, controls and accessories for the youth to check out and play. The kids also have one of the finest sound systems available for their music enjoyment.
Youth Center is Now Open!
Wednesdays
4:00 - 6:00 preteens
6:00 - 8:00 teens
Thursdays/Fridays
4:00 - 6:00 preteens
6:00 - 9:00 teens
Closed Official City Holidays
2022-2023 Arena Schedule
The Ron Castellano Arena is home of the most affordable ice time in the area! The arena can be booked for clubs/organizations, and for personal use (great for birthday parties, extra practice time, or just plain fun).
- $80.00/Hour for Organizations ($30 propane/$50 ice time)
- $85.00/Hour for Residents ($30 propane/$55 ice time)
- $95.00/Hour for Non-Residents ($30 propane/$65 ice time)
Contact the Recreation Director or the City Hall Office to schedule your rental time!
The arena is officially closed for the 2022-2023 season and will reopen again in October of 2023.
