Though many of us may spend these cold winter months dreaming of warm and sunny travel destinations, there are plenty of great reasons to spend some time in Duluth. Known as an outdoor mecca, it should come as no surprise that Duluth is packed with traditional, and even some not so traditional, winter activities. There’s a little bit of something for everyone here, such as skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or sledding, and even activities like dog sledding and ice fishing. When it’s time to warm up, you’ll find plenty of great breweries, restaurants, and shops to explore as well. Above all, you’ll enjoy relaxing in the luxurious accommodations at Minnesota’s #1 ranked Bed and Breakfast, the A.G. Thomson House. Book your winter stay with us today!
The Best Winter Activities
Having once been voted Outdoor Magazines “Best Town Ever,” it should come as no surprise that Duluth is a winter wonderland, filled with a broad range of exciting winter activities to enjoy during these coldest of months. Countless trails criss-cross their way through the forests and valleys, over the rugged peaks, and along the beautiful frozen vistas that Duluth is known for. Though this list is in no way complete, here are our favorite winter activities to try on your next visit to Duluth:
- Cross Country skiers have more miles than they know what you do with in Duluth. The most popular trails include those at Lester Park, Piedmont, Hartley Nature Center, Magney-Snively Park and Chester Park, in addition to the trails at Spirit Mountain and Snowflake Nordic Center.
- Downhill skiers and snowboarders will want to head to either Spirit Mountain, Lutsen Mountains Resort, or Chester Bowl. There, you’ll find a number of wonderful downhill runs and a variety of terrain to explore.
- There are also six great tubing runs at Chester Bowl for those who crave being in the snow, but don’t ski for whatever reason.
- If you love to ice skate, why not try your hand at speed-skating in the rink at the Chester Bowl?
- Go Ice Skating at the Duluth Heritage Sports Center, or one of the many outdoor rinks around town.
- Another way to explore Duluth this winter is on a pair of snowshoes. Head out to the 43 miles of Superior Hiking Trails, Magney-Snively Park, or the Hartley Nature Center, and enjoy a quiet day spent in beautiful scenery.
- In January, the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon takes place in Duluth. At over 400 miles, this is the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states, and serves as a qualifier for the famed Iditarod race in Alaska
- If you’re a fan of rock climbing during the warmer months, then you may want to try the exciting new sport of ice climbing in Duluth. There are a number of sites around Duluth where adventurous souls can participate in this fun event, including Casket Quarry, Gooseberry Falls State Park, the Cascade and Devil Track Rivers, and Robinson Park in Sandstone.
- Finally, when it’s cold enough and the ice conditions are right, Lake Superior can be a great place for ice fishing in the winter. Heed the “thin ice” warnings and always check with the Minnesota DNR before venturing out.
As you can see, winter in Duluth can be incredibly exciting. Though some of these winter activities aren’t for the faint of heart, there truly is something here for everyone. Afterwards, enjoy relaxing in front of the fire and the comfortable accommodations found at our romantic Inn. Book your stay at the A.G. Thomson House Bed and Breakfast in Duluth today.