As winter blankets Minnesota, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites residents and visitors to embrace the season’s unique outdoor opportunities. The DNR’s Winter Guide highlights a variety of activities across state parks and trails, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Minnesota’s state parks and trails transform into winter wonderlands, offering activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and snowmobiling. Many parks provide equipment rentals or free loaner gear, making it easy for newcomers to participate. For those interested in winter camping, several state parks maintain open campgrounds year-round, equipped with amenities like electric sites, lodging, and shower facilities. A comprehensive list of parks offering winter camping is available on the DNR’s website.
One of the season’s highlights is the DNR’s candlelight events. These family-friendly gatherings feature trails illuminated by lanterns or ice luminaries, creating a magical atmosphere for evening hikes, snowshoeing, or skiing. Participants can enjoy the trails at their own pace and warm up afterward by a crackling fire with refreshments. While events are free, a vehicle permit is required to enter the parks. Details and schedules for these events can be found on the DNR’s candlelight events page.
Winter also offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can observe migrating tundra swans along the Mississippi River in November and December or track white-tailed deer, red foxes, and coyotes in the snow during January and February. The DNR provides tips for successful wildlife observation, including bringing binoculars, moving quietly, and exploring during dawn and dusk.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the DNR advises visitors to dress appropriately for winter conditions, stay hydrated, and check trail conditions before heading out. They offer a guide on dressing for Minnesota winters and emphasize the importance of checking ice depth before venturing onto frozen water.
