Thrive during Minnesota's winter: Places to skate, ski, sled and snowshoe

Minne-Loppet lessons
Third-grader Awo Hassan, foreground, steadies herself while practicing her cross-country ski technique Jan. 15, 2014 at Windom Park in Minneapolis.
Jennifer Simonson for MPR News 2014

This guide was originally published in Dec. 2019.

The arrival of cold and snow might have closed the book on summer and fall fun — but it’s opened up a whole new world of possibilities for outdoor adventures.

Here are a few spots around Minnesota you can visit for outdoor ice skating, skiing, snowshoeing and sledding or tubing.

Note: Some locations cost money to visit or require you to bring your own equipment. Certain locations may not yet be open for the season, so be sure to check the associated website for more details before you go.

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Outdoor ice skating rinks

Can’t see the map? Click here.

Cross-country/downhill skiing

Can’t see the map? Click here.

Sledding hills

Can’t see the map? Click here.

Snowshoeing trails

Can’t see the map? Click here.

Fat bike trails

Can’t see the map? Click here.

What did we miss? Tell us about your favorite spot for outdoor winter fun here!

Looking for more news from the outdoors? Check out our full coverage here and download our Outside in MN app where you'll find guides, outdoor events near you and weather updates. Get it on iOS or Google Play.