By mid-February, most Minnesotan’s crave a vacation. After a
snow event and frigid temps that normally follow, we all get locked indoors for months without end. A get away
from the stress of work (think frozen or broken water lines) and everyday life
is sometimes just what we need. When a plane ticket to the Caribbean is not in
the cards, what should you do instead?
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| Minnehaha Falls is a natural winter wonderland. Sawdust_media, Flickr |
Aside from lakes, Minnesota is full
of state parks, each of which has something unique to offer its visitors -- no
matter the season! In the wintertime, there are more than two dozen parks that
offer heated cabin rentals, making it easy to explore and enjoy your favorite
natural habitat no matter the temperature.
Bonus:
Many state parks offer classes or events that help individuals and families
learn new wintertime activities, including but not limited to ice fishing,
snowshoeing, and winter birdwatching.
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| Adventurers are welcome to explore Ely. Chad Hennell, Flickr |
Always a favorite in the
summertime, Ely is a Minnesotan spot made for the avid type. In the wintertime,
however, the options are even more endless. Downtown Ely houses many options
for dining or shopping, while the great outdoor terrain offers ice fishing,
snowmobiling, and cross country skiing options.
Bonus:
The Grand Ely Lodge has fish house rentals available on Shagawa Lake, which
sits near miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Score!
Duluth, MN, is a winter haven.
Canal Park, located right on Lake Superior, offers the best of dining, downtown
shopping, and historic sightseeing all in one compact location. It’s the
perfect destination for people who want a winter getaway but don’t necessarily
want to hit the slopes.
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| Spirit Mtn. offers some of the best MN slopes. MarLeah Cole, Flickr |
However, many Minnesotans love
strapping on the skis in midst of freshly powdered hills, and there’s no better
place to visit than Spirit Mountain in West Duluth. Affordable deals on skiing
and snowboarding are offered by both the resort and nearby hotels, making it a
great option for vacationers on a budget.
Bonus:
Snowshoeing the Superior Hiking Trail, one of the most beautiful trails in
Duluth, is free! Depending on the time of your stay, it is also a treat to
watch the John Beargrease Sled-Dog Marathon with the kids.
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| Chilly family fun! Bearskin Lodge, Flickr |
3. Bearskin Lodge in Gunflint Trail, MN Bearskin Lodge is an absolute winter wonderland, with something for everyone hidden somewhere in its depths. Snowshoeing is available through the woods and along Bearskin Lake on groomed trails, making it an ideal location for beginners and experts alike. Broomball, ice skating on the lake, dog sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling are also available!
Bonus:
1.5 km of Bearskin Lodge’s trails are lighted, so if you head over to
Gunflint Trail, we strongly recommend trying your hand (or foot) at night
skiing.
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| Thumper Pond offers fun for the whole family, indoors or out. Thumperpond.com |
Bonus:
Want the best of both worlds? To get your outside fix, utilize the more than
500-miles of snowmobile-friendly trails in the area. If riding’s not your
style, cross country skiing and ice fishing at also available.
Voted one of the top spots to
downhill ski in our great state, the North Shore’s Lutsen Mountains are a
must-see for anyone craving a bit of extreme outdoor activity. Inside its four
hills and 1,000 acres, Lutsen offers 92 runs on some of the highest slopes in
the region. Despite its extreme statistics, the area is also known for its
family-friendly activities, lakeside dining room, and pool-sauna experiences.
Bonus: Want to take the
region’s only gondola ride? It’s offered here exclusively.
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| Beautiful slopes and intense terrain collide at Lutsen. John Warren, Flickr |
We know we missed at least one? Comment below and let us
know your favorite Minnesotan places to stay and enjoy the winter season. The
opportunities are endless the beautiful state of Minnesota!
