Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking are just some of the popular winter activities on Minnesota’s beautiful North Shore. Even though many know Lake Superior’s North Shore for its pristine summer views and beaches, the North Shore becomes Minnesota’s winter wonderland. The pristine snow and frozen Lake Superior is perfect whether you want to participate in winter sports nearby or just take in the scenery.

While taking in the views and fun, spend a weekend (or more!) with us at the Country Inn of Two Harbors. Here you’ll find a warm place to rest after a day of exploration along the shoreline and out on the trails. Not sure where to start? Here are some of our favorite winter North Shore activities.

Snowmobiling

Located along scenic Highway 61, Country Inn Two Harbors provides direct access to the 146-mile C. J. Ramstad North Shore State Trail. You can ride over the endless loop trails near the lake, or head inland towards the Iron Range.
Our parking lot offers ample room for vehicles towing snowmobiles. You also have easy access to local restaurants and shopping in Two Harbors.

Some of our favorite nearby trails include those at Gooseberry Falls State Park and the Corridor Trail. However, you can also ride up the North Shore to Silver Bay and Beaver Bay. The options to fill your day are endless.

Snowshoeing

This sport is always popular with hikers. Country Inn of Two Harbors is close to many trails for people who want to continue hiking after the snow flies. Take this opportunity to enjoy scenes of wild animals including ermine, deer, and hares. As you step quietly along the peaceful Superior Hiking Trail, watch for animal tracks.

You can also visit the trails near Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. Split Rock Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark, and it is one of the most famous light stations in the U.S. It is perched 130 feet above the rocky shore of Lake Superior overlooking Beaver Bay. The picturesque lighthouse was built in 1910 to guide ships safely to Two Harbors in fog and bad weather. It is one of the most visited lighthouses in the country.

Cross Country Skiing

The Erkki Harju Trail is conveniently just one mile from our hotel. It is one of many ski trails that run through the area to Gooseberry State Park. You can ski along the shoreline or through the woods. You’ll find area trails that are both easy and difficult, so you can meet all skill levels.
Cross-country skiers are advised to carry trail maps and know their skill level while following the trail.

You may share some trails with snowshoe hikers, dog sledders and people on fat bikes. Don’t forget that Nordic skiing with dogs is allowed on some trails, so being kind and friendly is encouraged!

Want something a bit more risk-taking? Check out the alpine skiing and snowboarding, offered in nearby Lutsen.

The Town of Two Harbors

Odegard Park in Two Harbors is your destination for ice skating and hockey. Warm up in its nearby warming house.
Two Harbors is also home to the oldest operating lighthouse on Minnesota’s north shore. Two Harbors Lighthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour the Fog Horn Building and see the actual light. The light still operates, and it is owned by the Lake County Historical Society.

Two Harbors is also the original birthplace of the 3M company. Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing was founded in this fishing village in 1902 by five businessmen, including John Dwan. The 3M Birthplace Museum is located in the Dwan Law Office Building where it started originally as a mining operation.

If you’re not up for museums, check out the local shops, as well as all of our dining options!

Touring the woods, the town, and the lake shore during the winter is an exhilarating experience. And while the weather outside is often frightful, the Country Inn of Two Harbors is warm and inviting. Enjoy our indoor pool, sauna and whirlpool spa, or relax by our fireplace in the main lobby.

Ask about our discounts for members of AAA, AARP, and military members. Check our availability and special winter rates for our rooms with queen beds or a king-size bed. All rooms feature 39″ flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and many amenities. Experience the beauty of northern Minnesota here any time of year, but don’t miss out on the winter!

 

Events In December

Castle Danger Brewery (Two Harbors, MN):

  • Dec. 3rd: Live Music – Elsa Lee
  • Dec. 10th: Live Music – John Cron
  • Dec. 11th: Live Music – Marc Gartman
  • Dec. 17th: Live Music – Hannah Rey
  • Dec. 18th: Live Music – Adam Moe
  • Dec. 31st: Live Music – Hannah Rey

Bentleyville (Duluth, MN)

  • Open Evenings Nov. 20th – Dec. 27th, 2021 • 5-9 Sun-Thurs 5-10 Fri-Sat

Julebyen Scandinavian Christmas Village 2021

  • Dec 4-5, 9 am – 4 pm
  • The ninth annual Knife River Julebyen, a Scandinavian-themed Christmas festival, runs Dec. 4-5. Indoor and outdoor marketplaces will showcase wares of artisans selected by a juried process, including crafts created in Knife River. (Read More)

Glensheen Christmas Tours 2021