Winter in Minnesota can spell hibernation for some residents and visitors, but it doesn’t have to! If you’re planning a trip to northern Minnesota or you just don’t feel like hiding inside all season, then we have just the thing for you! There are several winter-friendly ways to stay busy, so keep reading to learn more!
Winter activities to do in Minnesota
In addition to cozy nights around your fireplace, movie marathons, and early bedtimes, there’s so much to do during the long winters we experience in Minnesota. Some of our favorites include:
1. Winter hiking
Winter hiking is a great way to spend a day (or a weekend) in a snowy Minnesota landscape. Whether you want to explore Tettegouche State Park, Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Trail, Palisade Head, or one of the other trails located in the area, there are several trails to get outside! Some quick tips for wintertime hiking include:
- Going with another person or multiple people
- Being prepared for the conditions of the trails
- Bringing extra food
- Wearing lots of layers
- Having waterproof shoes on
Make sure you know the signs of winter-related health conditions such as frostbite and hypothermia as well as dehydration to ensure you’re always safe!
2. Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing is not only a really fun way to enjoy the winter weather and beautiful snow-covered forests, but it’s always an amazing workout. If you love this winter activity and you live around Two Harbors or are planning a little wintertime getaway, then you’ll want to check out one or some of the main cross-country skiing trails located in the area.
Some of these include Erkki Harju Ski Trail, Korkki Nordic Ski trail, Tettegouche State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, and more!
3. Snowshoeing
Similar to cross-country skiing and winter hiking, there are plenty of places that are either perfect for snowshoeing or specifically designated snowshoeing trails. Check out some of the most popular places to go along the north shore here!
4. Ice fishing
As the land of 10,000 lakes, the fishing pretty much never stops, even if the lake is completely frozen over. Ice fishing is a favorite winter activity here, and whether you’re an expert or this is your first time, we highly recommend giving it a go when you visit us in Two Harbors, MN. While Lake Superior can only be fished in certain areas during certain times of the year, there are still plenty of places available.
Check out this site for more details!
5. Dogsledding
Northern Minnesotans enjoy partaking in the snowy activity of dogsledding every year. Many people, however, have not had the pleasure of partaking in this wonderful experience. Whether you’re one of those people or not, it’s definitely something to add to the list! If you’re visiting Two Harbors, MN or live in the area, Silver Creek Sled Dogs is located right here. You can also check out Endurance Kennels and Positive Energy Outdoors located in Duluth, MN!
6. Taking in the scenery
Whether you enjoy being in the great outdoors or you just enjoy seeing the great outdoors, there are numerous places you can check out some beautiful winter scenery. Aside from snowy pine trees and an ice-covered Lake Superior along the scenic north shore, you can also check out the frozen waterfalls of Minnesota. Both Gooseberry Falls and Cascade Falls have a series of waterfalls that will freeze during the winter months and are great spots for tourists and locals to check out.
If you’re up for a drive further up the north shore and a hike, you can also check out High Falls and the Devil’s Kettle!
7. Visiting local shops
Maybe outdoor activities just aren’t for you, especially in the winter, but you still need a reason to get out and about. There are plenty of places to shop when you visit Two Harbors and you can find some of our favorites here!
Regardless of what you like to do when you visit Two Harbors, MN, There’s an endless amount of ways to stay busy, even during the winter season! Contact us to book your lodging at the Country Inn of Two Harbors while you visit. In addition to everything mentioned above, we’re also conveniently located near amazing local restaurants. We have a relaxing pool and sauna to use and enjoy as well as a cozy lobby to warm up in; and we offer AAA, AARP, and senior discounts, and children under 18 stay free!
