The existing course was expanded following the National Masters event to 7.5 Km. This addition was very exciting and challenging. During the summer of 2001 the course was further expanded, doubling the length of available ski trail. Additions in 2001 now allow a variety of options including both moderate and difficult skiing. A stadium area will be utilized in the athletic field North of the Winthrop site parking lot. This will feature large open areas for mass, wave and interval starts. Surrounding terrain will provide excellent visibility for spectators. Plans are in place for a warm-up track as part of this new layout. Following the stadium area start, a new climb has been created South of the adjacent school with a entirely new section of race trail.

Modifications to the existing trails include an addition at the very North end to eliminate a tight turn in the course. Other problem spots were addressed with major clearings and widening of turns in the southwestern most portion of the course and widening of a turn at the bottom of "The Plunge".

Most notably, an entirely new 4.5 Km. trail was created West of Battle Creek road with the planned temporary road closing on race day. This new trail was created only for use by the race organization. This trail is much more moderate than existing trails yet it is anything but boring. It has a combination of wooded and open sections. It passes by the rim of the Battle Creek Ravine and then breaks out with spectacular views of the Mississippi River valley, Pig's Eye and the city of St. Paul.

The result is 15 Km of race day trail. Improvements made this year moderate the overall difficulty of existing trail yet adequate challenge for elite skiers remains. Most importantly, this novel approach allows simultaneous use of both "Championship" and "Citizens" courses.