Minnesota’s winter landscape transforms into a magical wonderland, offering a variety of enchanting weekend getaways. From scenic lakeside views to thrilling outdoor adventures, our state has something for every winter enthusiast.
At Up North Property Management, we’ve curated a list of the top winter weekend getaways in MN to help you plan your perfect cold-weather escape. Get ready to discover cozy retreats, exhilarating activities, and unforgettable experiences that will make you fall in love with Minnesota’s winter charm.
Duluth’s Winter Magic
Lake Superior’s Icy Spectacle
Duluth transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting activities. This lakeside city becomes a hub for winter enthusiasts, with its stunning views and diverse attractions.
Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, takes on a mesmerizing quality in winter. The shoreline often freezes, creating intricate ice formations that glisten in the sunlight. From the Lakewalk, visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of massive ice sheets stretching across the horizon. The iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, dusted with snow, provides a picturesque backdrop for photos. The best views occur at sunrise or sunset when the light paints the sky and ice in vibrant hues.
Thrills on the Slopes
Spirit Mountain, just minutes from downtown Duluth, offers beautifully wooded cross-country ski trails groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The mountain’s snow-making capabilities ensure great conditions throughout the season. Night skiing is available on select runs, providing a unique opportunity to carve the slopes under the stars. Spirit Mountain’s ski school offers group and private lessons to help beginners find their snow legs.
Canal Park’s Winter Charm
Canal Park, Duluth’s entertainment district, takes on a cozy atmosphere in winter. The area’s shops and restaurants provide warm refuges from the cold, with many offering seasonal specialties. Local craft beers at Canal Park Brewing Company and comfort food at Northern Waters Smokehaus (known for their smoked fish and sandwiches) are must-try experiences. For a dose of history, the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center remains open year-round and offers fascinating insights into the area’s shipping heritage.
Outdoor Adventures
Duluth offers numerous outdoor activities beyond skiing. Snowshoeing trails wind through scenic parks like Hartley Nature Center and Lester Park. Ice fishing enthusiasts can try their luck on frozen lakes (with proper safety precautions). For a unique experience, try fat biking on Duluth’s extensive trail system, specially groomed for winter riding.
Cozy Accommodations
After a day of winter adventures, visitors can retreat to comfortable lodgings. Duluth boasts a range of options, from lakeside resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. Many accommodations offer fireplaces, hot tubs, or saunas – perfect for warming up after a chilly day outdoors. (For those seeking a truly memorable stay, Up North Property Management offers exclusive vacation rentals fully equipped for a stress-free winter getaway.)
As the snow blankets Duluth’s hills and shores, the city beckons winter enthusiasts to explore its icy wonders and cozy retreats. But Duluth is just the beginning of Minnesota’s winter magic. Let’s venture further north to discover the rustic charms and wilderness adventures awaiting in Ely.
Ely’s Wilderness Winter Wonderland
Gateway to Snowy Solitude
Ely, a small town nestled in Minnesota’s Northwoods, serves as the portal to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). In winter, this vast expanse transforms into a snow-covered paradise, offering visitors a rustic retreat unlike any other.
Trails for Every Skill Level
The BWCAW boasts over 200 miles of groomed trails, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike will find routes to suit their abilities. Local outfitters provide equipment rentals and trail maps, ensuring adventurers are well-prepared for their excursions.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, multi-day backcountry tours offer a chance to explore the heart of the wilderness. Guided expeditions lead participants through pristine forests and across frozen lakes, providing a true taste of winter solitude.
Mushing Through the Snow
Dog sledding stands out as a quintessential Ely winter activity. Several local operators offer experiences ranging from short rides to extended adventures. Visitors can learn mushing techniques and bond with the dogs, creating unforgettable memories.
Some operators combine dog sledding with gourmet meals and comfortable lodging, striking a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Cozy Retreats in the Pines
After a day of outdoor exploration, Ely’s lodges welcome weary adventurers with warm hospitality. The historic Burntside Lodge, dating back to 1913, features individual cabins with wood-burning fireplaces and stunning lake views. Their on-site restaurant serves locally-sourced cuisine, including freshly caught walleye.
For a more secluded experience, some resorts offer cabins tucked away in the pines. These accommodations often come equipped with full kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.
Beyond the Trails
Ely’s winter charm extends beyond outdoor activities. The town’s main street features unique shops and galleries, perfect for discovering locally-made crafts or picking up outdoor gear. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the International Wolf Center, where visitors can learn about wolf behavior and possibly spot the resident pack.
As the snow continues to fall in Ely, another winter wonderland awaits just a short drive away. Lutsen, with its expansive ski resort and luxurious amenities, offers a different kind of Minnesota winter escape.
Lutsen’s Luxurious Winter Playground
Midwest’s Premier Ski Destination
Lutsen Mountains stands out as the largest ski resort in the Midwest. It boasts a total slope length of 40 km, rivaling many Western ski areas. The resort’s state-of-the-art snowmaking system ensures excellent conditions throughout the season.
Beginners can take advantage of the ski school’s group and private lessons. Advanced skiers will find challenging terrain on runs like The Plunge and Experts Delight. Lutsen offers twilight skiing on select runs, providing a unique experience under the stars.
Snowmobile Adventures
Lutsen serves as a gateway to snowmobile trails. Local outfitters offer guided tours and rentals, allowing visitors to explore the stunning North Shore landscape. Popular routes include the Cascade River State Park trail, which offers breathtaking views of frozen waterfalls and Lake Superior vistas.
Indulgent Après-Ski Experiences
After a day on the trails, Lutsen’s resorts provide luxurious amenities to soothe tired muscles. The Waves of Superior Spa at Lutsen Resort offers treatments using locally-sourced ingredients like wild rice and birch. Their signature North Shore Stone Massage attracts many skiers.
Gourmet Dining Options
Lutsen boasts several upscale dining options. The Lakeside Dining Room at Lutsen Resort serves gourmet meals with panoramic views of Lake Superior. Menu highlights include locally-caught fish and seasonal game dishes.
Papa Charlie’s, located at the base of Moose Mountain, combines live music with creative cuisine. Their extensive craft beer selection features many Minnesota breweries.
Luxurious Accommodations
Lutsen offers numerous lodging options for winter visitors. Up North Property Management stands out for those seeking a more personalized experience. Their curated selection of vacation rentals includes properties with amenities like private hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and stunning lake views. (These exclusive rentals come fully equipped for a stress-free stay.)
You should book your Lutsen getaway well in advance, especially for peak weekends. The resort can get busy, particularly during holidays and when conditions are optimal. Early planning will help you secure the best accommodations and avoid long lift lines.
Final Thoughts
Minnesota’s winter landscape offers diverse and enchanting getaways for every type of enthusiast. Duluth captivates with its lakeside views and thrilling slopes, while Ely provides rustic wilderness adventures in the pristine Boundary Waters. Lutsen delivers an upscale winter retreat with its expansive ski resort, gourmet dining, and indulgent spa treatments.
These winter weekend getaways in MN showcase the best of our state during the colder months. Visitors can experience outdoor thrills, peaceful nature immersion, or luxurious relaxation in Minnesota’s winter wonderland. The state’s beauty keeps visitors returning year after year to explore its snowy landscapes and cozy retreats.
To maximize your winter escape, consider booking your stay through Up North Property Management. Their vacation rentals come equipped for a stress-free stay (ensuring all the comforts of home while you explore). With their expertise in the Northern Lakes Area, Up North Property Management can help create lasting memories during your winter getaway.