We’re officially in the thick of the winter season, and the frigid temperatures won’t be letting up anytime soon. So why not embrace the cold by bundling up and adventuring through it? Here are 5 outdoor activities to keep you exploring Minnesota all winter long.
Cross-Country Skiing
Dust off your cross-country skis and head up to Voyageurs National Park along the state’s northern border. With 200,000+ acres of water and forests, this rugged region is ripe for winter adventures. Bonus: Park guests can snag a pair of skis at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center.
Fat-Tire Biking
Take in beautiful views of Lake Superior by fat-tire biking through eight miles of cleared trail at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. This popular trail gets groomed for biking every winter, plus convenient bike rentals in nearby Two Harbors make it easy to try this popular winter sport.
Snowshoeing
Step into a pair of snowshoes and take on the endless wintery terrain. The Mesabi Iron Range is the perfect destination to get stomping. Four main winter trails have been reclaimed specifically for recreation, and several weekly guided snowshoe tours are available.
Snowmobiling
Enjoy wide open spaces on Lake Vermilion, which boasts 40,000+ acres spaces to experience by snowmobile. Lake Vermilion Houseboats offers affordable rentals conveniently located near the starts of the Arrowhead and Taconite trails. There are also plentiful local lodging options if you’re looking to make a weekend of it.
Skijoring
Get outside with your pooch and give skijoring a go. Cook County is one of the best places to try this unique sport. You can rent skis, a towline and a waistbelt from Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply in Grand Marais. Then you and your canine can explore the frozen lakes and wooded trails together.
