What to do this Winter in Northern MN

Introduction

Northern Minnesota in the winter offers a unique, winter wonderland experience. The snow-covered landscape is perfect for outdoor activities like ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more. Northern Minnesota also offers great shopping and dining for days when you want to warm up and stay indoors. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, northern Minnesota is a great choice for your next winter getaway. 

This northeast Minnesota territory is part of Voyageurs National Park and offers many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and backpacking. Visitors from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, and beyond travel to Crane Lake to enjoy the vast wilderness and explore the beauty of its many lakes and waterways. There are many local accommodations from cabin rentals to fishing tours with family fun activities for all ages. Contact us today to learn more about Crane Lake and plan your visit!

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting way to explore the beautiful trails and wooded areas of northern Minnesota during the winter months. Below are some recommendations on where you can find some great snowmobiling in the area: 

Trail #1 – Crane Lake

• Crane Lake has one of the top 10 snowmobile rides in the world. Check out the endless miles of well groomed snowmobile trails.

Trail #2 – Pequaywan Lake Trail

• This 10 mile trail travels north into the Cloquet Valley State Forest.

Trail #3 – Beltrami Island State Forest

• Check out  Beltrami Island State Forest for 120 miles of groomed trails.

Ice Fishing

From cozy shanties to elaborate setups, ice fishing is a cherished tradition in northern MN. Ice fishing blends the thrill of the catch with the peacefulness of winter. Be sure to check out the following lakes for your next ice fishing trip:

Lake #1 – Crane Lake

• Fishing is a must when visiting Crane Lake, and in the winter it’s all about ice fishing.  Be sure to check out Crane Lake for your next ice fishing trip.

Lake #2 – Lake of the Woods

• Lake of the Woods is the sixth largest inland freshwater lake in the US. If you are looking for an ice fishing adventure in northern MN, this is a great place to check out. 

Lake #3 – Kabetogama Lake

• Ice fishing is a popular activity on Kabetogama Lake in the winter. Visitors from all over are drawn to this northern MN spot.

Skiing

Skiing is a popular winter activity in northern Minnesota for both locals and visitors. The region boasts a variety of well-groomed mountains that cater to all skill levels.Below are some ski spots to check out for your next winter trip to northern MN:

#1 – Crane Lake 

• Cross-country skiing is a must-do when visiting northern MN/Crane Lake during the winter months. Crane Lake has many beautiful remote wooded trails to explore.

#2 – Giant’s Ridge 

• Giant’s Ridge features 35 runs and 60 kilometers of trails. This mountain offers snow machines that ensure the trails remain open even when the weather does not want to cooperate. 

#3 Lusten Mountain 

• Lusten Mountain offers some of the best skiing in Northern MN, and in the midwest overall.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a beloved winter activity in northern Minnesota that allows you to explore the snow-covered wilderness on foot. The region offers a variety of scenic trails that are perfect for snowshoeing. Check out these trails for a fun snowshoe adventure: 

#1 – Crane Lake

• Strap in and enjoy the  many beautiful remote wooded trails to explore on snowshoes at Crane Lake.

#2 – Voyageurs National Park

•  Explore the winter landscape by snowshoeing through the lakes and forests that make up Voyageurs National Park.

#3 – Superior Hiking Trail

• The Superior Hiking Trail, which is one of northern Minnesota’s premeri hiking trails, is a top spot for snowshoeing in the winter. This trail is a favorite for snowshoers in the Lake Superior area. 

Birding 

Northern Minnesota has a wide variety of habitats and bird species, making it a top destination for bird lovers everywhere. Here are some great spots for birding in Northern MN: 

#1 – Crane Lake

• Birding is a favorite activity at Crane Lake during any season. A diverse range of bird species call this area home, so you are sure to spot some exciting birds during your visit. 

#2 – Echo Bay 

• Echo Bay is a wide hiking and ski trail located in Voyageurs National Park. This trail is a great location to spot a wide variety of the area’s bird species. 

#3 – Sax-Zim Bog

• Sax-Zim Bog is a hotspot for birding in northern MN. This 30,000-acre wetland area has an incredible variety of bird species.

Shopping 

You can’t go on vacation without doing a little shopping! Take a break from the cold and enjoy some of the great shopping that northern MN has to offer. Be sure to check out these spots where you can shop ‘til you drop: 

#1 – Town of Bemidji

• Bemidji is a town in northern Minnesota that has fantastic antique shopping. The various antique stores in Bemidji reflect the region’s cultural roots. Here, you can find everything from Native American crafts to authentic Scandinavian carvings and more. Bemidji is also home to the Paul Bunyan mall and Pinnacle Village Shop. 

#2 – Ronnings

• For over 60 years Ronnings has been providing the residents and visitors of northern MN with a large selection of apparel, footwear, souvenirs, home goods, and more. Ronnings offers a wide variety of brands, so you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for,

#3 – Wintergreen Northern Wear

• Wintergreen Northern Wear has been producing quality apparel that is handmade in Minnesota for over 30 years. They have everything you need for your winter getaway to northern MN. Come with nothing but the clothes on your back and your wallet, and you will leave with a full winter wardrobe.

Dining

After a long day of adventuring (or shopping) you are going to need a hearty meal. Check out these delicious restaurants during your visit to the area:

 #1 – The Vermillion Club

• A scenic spot to eat on beautiful Lake Vermillion, The Vermillion Club offers a classic American menu. You can find burgers, pizza, a variety of entrees, and more. This is a great spot to have a fun night out, and you can even take a boat ride on the lake.

#2 – The Dam Supper Club

• Located on Pelican Lake, The Dam Supper Club is a great place to stop as you are traveling through northern MN. This restaurant has cozy comfort food and fun live music. This is a perfect place to enjoy a good meal and have fun with friends/family. 

#3 – Trail’s End Resort

• Enjoy a home-cooked lunch or dinner at this full-service restaurant & bar. Loved by visitors and locals, you are sure to get a great meal here.

Where to Stay

Whether you are vacationing or staycationing, there are plenty of lodging options in northern Minnesota to suit your needs. Cozy cabins, lakeside resorts, and charming lodges are popular choices for visitors. Many of these places, while rustic and charming, offer modern amenities so you are sure to have a comfortable living space while you enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Visit Crane Lake 

Crane Lake is a gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the wilderness of northern Minnesota, it offers access to breathtaking, snow-covered trails that are perfect for snowshoeing, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing. During the winter, this serene lake freezes over, creating a peaceful landscape ideal for ice fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. A winter trip to Crane Lake is perfect for a memorable getaway.