Cross Country Skiing Trails in Grand Rapids Minnesota

cross country skiing trails in grand rapids minnesota

Seek Solitude in the Winter Forest

cross country skiing trails in grand rapids

There is something very special about cross country skiing in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. With over 1 million publicly accessible acres and almost 200 KM of ski trail, you can seek solitude in the winter forests around the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. One of the largest tracks of public land is the Chippewa National Forest. After that the George Washington Forest, Rajala Forest, and Blandin Forest, Itasca County and State public land make up the 1 million acres. These cross country ski trail are well maintained and groomed weekly. And the great thing about cross country skiing is that you can ski with low snow conditions as long as there is between 4-6 inches of base for the clubs to pack and groom.

MN Ski Trail Pass

cross country skiing trails in grand rapids

There are 198 KM of cross country ski trails in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. Remember to purchase your MN Ski Trail Pass. You must have the MN Ski Trail Pass to ski on these trails. The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club, Itasca County and the MN DNR groom and maintain the cross country ski trails in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. These trails vary between beginner to expert level. The Itasca County Cross Country Ski Map designates each trail so everyone can select trails that fit their ability; many family friendly trails to choose from. There are a mix of flat trails, trails with a mix of hills and curves that are located within mixed hardwood and pine forests that wind around bogs and area lakes. The Itasca Area Trails are very scenic, and a great opportunity to seek solitude. Please support the Itasca cross-country ski trails by considering being a member of the Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club

Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club

cross country skiing in grand rapids

The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club volunteers keep all 20 cross country trail systems well maintained and groomed. These volunteers are all passionate about the nordic ski sport to give their time and talents to ensure that all of the trails are well groomed. The great things about these trails is that you do not need a lot of snow to cross country ski – well not as much as snowmobiling. Typically club volunteers can groom with 4-6 inches of snow. Typically they start packing the trails, once they have trimmed the trees, branches, bushes and tall grass that has grown up on the trail over the summer and fall season. The 198 KM of cross country ski trail in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area are some of the best cross country ski trails in the state. You will experience a mix of hardwood and pine forests that are beginner level to intermediate. Some trails are fairly flat, and others have hills and curves. This makes our trails perfect for all ages and levels of cross county skiers. Each year Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club volunteers for the youth ski program that takes place on Sundays at Mt Itasca in the winter. This program provides equipment and skills training to area youth. It is a great way to get young people outside in the winter and teach them a new life-long skill.

Frigid Weather Things To Do In Grand Rapids Minnesota

Frigid weather things to do

cold weather things to do in grand rapids mN

frigid weather things to do in grand rapids minnesota

There are many frigid weather things to do in Grand Rapids Minnesota. When the weather outside is frightful, people head to indoor things to do. Here is our Top 10 Frigid Weather Things To Do in Grand Rapids Minnesota:

Get Warm inside

frigid weather things to do

In Grand Rapids there are SO many indoor places where you can come in from the COLD winter and warm up, relax, enjoy live music, let the kids play and interact, be entertained, participate in an interactive exhibit or program, view beautiful art, be a part of a cultural experience, and support local businesses.

Here are some warm indoors things to do in frigid weather in Grand Rapids Minnesota:

The Judy Garland Museum and the Children’s Discovery Museum are under one roof and with one admission you can view two museums full of exhibitions that are fun for the entire family. From the largest collection of Judy Garland memorabilia, tour Judy’s childhood home, and let the kids play and interact with the children’s exhibits.

The Itasca County Historical Society has many different exhibits to enjoy and discover the history of the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area. Visit the River Room to discover about the Mighty Mississippi that flows right through downtown Grand Rapids. Schedule an appointment for the Escape Room. Every season they change the Escape Room theme, so if you have been there before, try it again. 

MacRostie Art Center is located downtown across from Old Central School. MacRostie has a wide variety of youth and adult classes that they offer in their art room. Check out their art exhibitions in their three galleries: Minnesota, MacRostie and  Ginnawind. The Ginnawind Gallery was created as a creative space for native american art. MacRostie also has an art shop where you can purchase local and Minnesota made artwork.

Old Central School is a late 1800’s historic building that is located in the center of downtown Grand Rapids. This building once served as the main schoolhouse for ages K-12. Now this building is home to shops, businesses and artists (on the 3rd floor). Take a self-guided tour of the building. The building is handicap friendly with an elevator located on the ground floor from the north parking lot entrance. View and read the exhibits about the schools history located on the second floor.

Reif Center is a great place to be entertained and also view beautiful art. This performing arts center has two theaters where people can purchase tickets to concerts, plays, comedy acts, and more. The Reif Center brings Broadway style performances to northern Minnesota in a state of the art theater experience. They offer several performances a month, and several family friendly performances throughout the year. MacRostie and the Reif work together to create regular aryt exhibits in the lobby of The Reif Center. You can view the art exhibit schedule at MacRostie’s website. 

ThunderAlley Bowling & Arcade is another warm place indoors during frigid weather where you can have fun with the entire family. For younger children they have bumpers and special bowling balls available upon request to assist them so they can bowl along with the adults. The arcade space has brought back the old pac man and wack a mole style games. You purchase tickets to play and them win tickets that you can trade in for prizes. They offer bar style pizzas, snacks and beverages to enjoy while you play.

Mann’s Cinnema 8 offers another great place to come inside and warm up. Enjoy the latest big screen movies in reclining comfort. Mann’s offers theater seating so all seats are great! The concessions offers a wide variety of snacks and beverages to enjoy while you watch the movie. With 8 theaters there is always a wide selection to choose from so that there is something for all ages.

Ravenstone Abbey is located in Coleraine that is a repurposed historic church that has been recreated into a axe throwing, pub style environment bar/restaurant and place for the community to gather. A great opportunity to try axe throwing in a dungeon atmosphere. You don’t need to be a professional to try this, and fun for all ages!

Blueberry Bowl is a three lane bowling ally and arcade event space that some people would say offers the best pizza homestyle pizza. Blueberry Bowl is a locally owned bowling ally that provides a fun place for families to come inside in the frigid weather that is reasonably priced.

 

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

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Come inside to warm up inside at locally owned restaurants, craft breweries and other establishments that serve beverage and food. For a small town Grand Rapids has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. There is the places where you can get the best bar burgers, and then there is the place to get the best pizza in Minnesota. Or there are two locally owned craft breweries, and a winery located in Coleraine (the next town down the road – 10 minutes away). Then you will find locally owned restaurants that offer a variety of ethnic food menu’s. There is fast to go food, sit down,  and a craft brewery that allow you to order in from the local restaurants. View the Grand Rapids, MN Restaurant List for more information.

Shopping

frigid things to do in grand rapids minnesota

Shopping is always a great frigid weather thing to do in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Shopping in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area is a mix of locally owned boutique style shops to big box type of franchises. The locally owned boutique style shops offer a wide variety of one of a kind items from art, clothing, home decor, jewelry and so much more. These boutiques are typically located in repurposed historic buildings that have been repurposed into shopping spaces that offer locally created items. 

Book An Overnight

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When the weather outside is frightful, booking an overnight at a Grand Rapids, Minnesota area Hote/Motel, Resort Cabin, Vacation Rental, or Bed and Breakfast. Maybe a romantic getaway for two or a family-friendly lodging property that offers space for everyone to spread out or come together to make a meal together, play old fashion board games, or cuddling by a fireplace. Maybe a place with a pool, hot tub or sauna is what you seek. Maybe a lake place that offers lake access for ice fishing or access to the winter trails. Let’s be honest, a change on environment can change the winter cabin fever perspective. View the Grand Rapids, MN Lodging Properties and book an overnight today.

Snowmobiling Trails in Grand Rapids Minnesota

snowmobiling grand rapids mn

Snowmobiling Trails

There are 300+ Snowmobile Trails in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This provides for a wonderful winter wonderland getaway to northern Minnesota. These trails are well-groomed and maintained. The Itasca County Snowmobile Trails are well-groomed and maintained by 11 Itasca County Snowmobile Clubs full of volunteers and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources groom the trails weekly when the snow conditions allow. On the 200+ miles of well-groomed trails are enough to ride for multiple days and not ride the same trails.

Download the 2024/2025 Itasca County Snowmobile Trail Map.
Sample Snowmobile Trip Itinerary From Grand Rapids, Minnesota

snowmobiling in grand rapids mn

Riding Day 1: The Taconite Trail to the Junction Bar in Togo. The Taconite Trail is a well groomed snowmobile trail. From the Taconite Trail Head at the Itasca County Fairgrounds (1336 Fairgrounds Rd, Grand Rapids, MN 55744), then take the Tim Corey trail, and then take the the Circle T which will take you to The Junction Bar in Togo. The Junction specializes in burger baskets, and cold beer. There is plenty of parking for trucks and trailers at this location at the Itasca County Fairgrounds. The Junction is a good place to grab lunch or dinner. On a beautiful winter day, the Junction is always full of snowmobilers, and we were pleasantly surprised by their wide variety of menu, and very friendly staff. The Junction also sells gas to fill up before you head south to Grand Rapids. This will be a full day ride up to Togo and back to Taconite Trail parking lot located at the Itasca County Fairgrounds in Grand Rapids. This is an  approximately 140 -mile round trip. The trails you will experience are mixed forest, tamarack bogs, around through small lakes and tall pine forests. Taconite Snowmobile Trail 

Riding Day 2: The Driftskipper Snowmobile Trail to Harry’s Bar in Hill City. Start at the Itasca Driftskippers Club House (33455 Wagon Wheel Court Rd, Grand Rapids, MN 55744). There is plenty of parking for trucks and trailers to load and unload. The trail head is right at their parking lot. Once you are on the Driftskippers Trail this will take you all the way into Hill City to Harry’s Bar spur. If you want to add more riding you can add the Cook Lake Trail and the Splithand Trail. Harry’s Bar in Hill City is welcoming to snowmobilers. This bar/grill provides a relaxed feel. They specialize in smoked meats, burger baskets, and daily specials. This is a family-friendly place to stop. There are two gas stations in Hill City to fill up and pick up snacks too. This is an approximately 45 mile round trip, so perfect for a morning or afternoon ride. You can ride from the south-end hotels in Grand Rapids to the Itasca Driftskippers Clubhouse, plan on adding approximately 15 miles. On this trail you will experience mixed pine and hardwood forests, riding around and through tamarack bogs, riding across lakes, and in town ridi

SNOWMOBILE FRIENDLY LODGING

Snowmobile Trails in Grand Rapids

There are many trails to Snowmobile Friendly Lodging in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area that will provide you a wide variety of on-site amenities. There are many overnight lodging properties that are located on the Snowmobile Trail s in Grand Rapids, Minnesota area.. Some have a spur trail to their location, and or are not far to ride across a lake or trailer to a main parking area.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota offers a wide variety of overnight lodging properties like conveniently located in town Hotels and Motels, open year round Resorts and Vacation Rentals located on frozen lakes, historic and charming Bed and Breakfasts located in town and on Pokegama Lake. These properties offer a wide variety of amenities like on-site bar/restaurant, continental breakfast, in-room service, pool, hot tub, full kitchens, and conveniently located on or near the winter trails. View Grand Rapids Lodging Options.

SNOWMOBILE RESOURCES

snowmobiling in Grand Rapids

Snowmobiling Trails in Grand Rapids, Minnesota make for the  the perfect winter getaway trip to northern Minnesota. Make sure that you have the proper Minnesota Snowmobile Registration on your snowmobile and your insurance in up to date. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is a good source for this information HERE. If you are looking for an interactive statewide snowmobile map, take a look HERE. If you do not own a snowmobile, and you would like to rent, give R&R Rental in Grand Rapids a call: 218-999-7368 or view their website HERE.

Read Weekly Winter Trail Reports

Winter Romantic Getaway to Grand Rapids Minnesota

winter romantic getaway

Romantic Getaway

winter romantic getaway

Looking for a way to really WHOW your valentine this year? Book a winter romantic getaway to Grand Rapids, Minnesota this year. Let’s be honest, winters get long in Minnesota, and a winter getaway to Grand Rapids, MN  is the perfect way to kick cabin fever and reconnect with your loved one .. You will find warm and cozy lodging, fun places to eat & drink, boutique style shops, historic attractions, cultural experiences and live entertainment, and an abundance of winter trails and lakes to explore in a remote setting to seek rest, relax and reconnect together. Find more Winter Things To Do.

Warm & Cozy Lodging

winter romantic getaway

Grand Rapids, Minnesota has a wide variety of warm and cozy places to stay in the winter. There are in town Hotels, Motels and Bed & Breakfasts that are located near the shops, restaurants and in town trails. There are Minnesota Resorts that are open year-round and provide you with a fireplace cabin that is perfect for two. And then there are Vacation Rentals that are located both in town and on area lakes. Find more Places to Stay in Grand Rapids.

Fun Places to Eat & Drink

winter romantic getaway

You will find a wide variety of places to eat & drink in the Grand Rapids, MN area. You will find locally owned craft breweries and local winery that offer weekly live music and other entertainment and in-house wood fired oven menu and order in and food trucks on site. Then there are the local places that offer the best bar burgers, best pizza in Minnesota, and restaurants with chef cuisine inspired menus. Whether you choose an upscale dining atmosphere or a more casual laid back place where you can be entertained by a performance or the view; the choice is yours. Find more Places to Eat & Drink.

Outdoor Recreation

Snowboarding

With over 1 million acres of publicly accessible forest land in the area with over 2,000 miles of trails and 1,400 lakes; any outdoor recreation you are interested in, you can experience it in Grand Rapids. Head north to experience winter wonderland outdoor recreation mecca of the north! Mt Itasca Winter Sports Center is a place where you can always find snow to downhill ski, snowboard, cross country ski, and snow tube. Mt Itasca offers weekend winter fun for all ages. They offer on site rentals and a concession for food and beverage. In addition to Mt Itasca, you can enjoy over 200KM of cross country ski trails, over 3 00 miles of snowmobile trails, and lots of forest land to snowshoe. The Minnesota State famous Taconite Snowmobile Trail that runs from the Grand Rapids to the Iron Range. Whatever winter outdoor recreation you like to enjoy or would like to try, you can do it here.Come enjoy a winter wonderland in Minnesota’s nature. View more Winter Outdoor Recreation and view the Ice Fishing and Trail Conditions.In 

Entertaining Historic Attractions

winter romantic getaway

Looking for indoor places this winter, the Judy Garland Museum offers VIP tours of exclusive Judy Garland memorabilia that is not open to everyone in the museum. Judy Garland was born in Grand Rapids (aka Frances Ethel Gumm) in 1922. Enjoy hundreds of Judy Garland memorabilia and step back in time to the home she grew up in. The Itasca County Historical Society offers a free will donation museum that showcases Minnesota historic artifacts that were found in the Grand Rapids, MN area. Some of their exhibits are: Veterans Memorial, Mississippi River Room, and Doughboy Escape Room; requires an appointment. If you are looking for a way to experience the forest in the winter, the winter horse drawn sleigh rides at the Forest History Center are awesome. Experience the winter wonderland in Minnesota’s nature. And when you are in town you need to stop downtown and take a self-guided tour of Old Central School. Find more about Historic Sites in the Grand Rapids, MN area.

Live Entertainment and Art & Cultural Experiences

Winter romantic getaway

There is weekly nightlife in Grand Rapids, Minnesota at a variety of places like The Reif Performing Arts Center, craft breweries, local winery, area attractions, and in downtown Grand Rapids. The MacRostie Art Center offers several galleries, monthly exhibits, and art classes and programs. Each month there are new art exhibits in the Giinawind Creative Space, Minnesota Gallery and the MacRostie Art Gallery. While downtown you can also take a self-guided Grand Rapids Art & Historic Sites Tour. For more information View the Events Calendar to see what is coming up for events, programs, and entertainment in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area.

Book Your Winter Romantic Getaway

Now that you have seen that Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a great place to take a Winter Romantic Getaway, now is the time to Book! Check out our Book>Direct listings to help you find the perfect place to stay. Book NOW!

Top 10 Low Snow Things To Do in Grand Rapids Minnesota

low snow things to do

Low Snow Winter Things To Do

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a great winter getaway. Here is a Top 10 Low Snow Things To Do in Grand Rapids Minnesota this winter. Just because mother nature doesn’t give us the snow depths needed for snowmobiling, doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything to do. Here in northern Minnesota, there is always things to do in the winter – snow or no snow! You will find an abundance of low snow outdoor activities to enjoy as well as fun indoor activities. 

#1: Ice Fishing

top 10 low snow things to do

Ice Fishing – There are 1,400 lakes in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. The smaller lakes north of Grand Rapids are great places to catch panfish like crappies, bluegills, and perch. Some lakes to consider are Sand, Round, and Bass lakes. All of these lakes offer public boat accesses that make it easy to walk out onto the lake. Some of the larger lakes that have public boat accesses where you can walk out and some you can four-wheeler and snowmobile from are Bowstring, Lake Winnibigoshish, Pokegama and Trout. On these lakes you will catch panfish (crappie, bluegill and perch), as well as walleye, northern pike, and trout. Read the weekly Ice Fishing Report.

Resource: MN DNR Lake Finder

#2: Cross-Country Skiing

top 10 low snow things to do

Cross-Country Skiing – The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Association helps maintain approximately 200KM of cross-country ski trails in Itasca County. The Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club maintains seven trails: (Legion, Sugar Hills, Robin Baker Blueberry, Amen Lake, Suomi Hills, Trout Lake, and Mount Itasca). There is a base of anywhere from 4-8 inches which has allowed for packing, rolled and fethered with some trails being considered for setting tracks. A reminder is that you will need to purchase a MN Ski Pass to ski on these trails. Resource: Northern Lights Nordic Ski Association

#3: Snowshoeing

top 10 low snow things to do

Snowshoeing – With over 1 million publicly accessible forest acres around the Grand Rapids, MN area, even a low snow provides for a snowshoeing opportunity. The Chippewa National Forest and Tioga Recreation Area two great places to snowshoe. The City of Cohasset Park & Recreation offer FREE snowshoe hikes throughout the winter where snowshoes are provided Ardent Bicycles in Grand Rapids offer snowshoe rentals. Resource: City of Cohasset Park & Recreation

#4: Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding and Snow Tubing

top 10 low snow things to do

Mt Itasca Winter Sports Center in Coleraine is only a 15 minute drive east of Grand Rapids. This facility makes snow, so there is no need to worry of the snow conditions. They offer a chairlift for downhill skiing and snowboarding, and a hill designated for snowtubing. They provide rentals on site and a concession and public area to warm up. They also groom trails for cross country skiing. Resources: Mt Itasca

#5: Fun Places to Eat & Drink

top 10 low snow things to do

Grand Rapids, Minnesota offers a wide variety of places to eat & drink. These locally owned establishments offer Northwoods cuisine to chef inspired menu’s. Try a flight of locally crafted beer at one of the breweries. Try the smash burgers at one of the bar/grills that are located off the trails. Try the locally owned restaurant where the locals go. Enjoy the dining by the fireplace that overlooks a frozen lake. Taste the best pizza in Minnesota. Resources: Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and Deer River Chamber of Commerce.

#6: Weekly Live Entertainment

Top 10 low snow things to do

This small town offers entertainment of a much larger town! This is in part to local breweries, bars and restaurants providing weekly live music and other types of entertainment, and our hidden gem of a theater. The Reif Performing Arts Center hosts 10-15 live performances a month in their 700 seat theater. They host Broadway style performances, concerts and comedy shows during their performance season of September to May. Then in the summer months they provide off site concerts in area communities, on Pokegama Lake, and other park like settings. Resource: Check out the Reif Center upcoming performances and Events Calendar for the great Grand Rapids, MN ar

#7: Historic Sites

Top 10 low snow things to do

Grand Rapids is a diverse community that supports the arts and Minnesota history. MacRostie Art Center is located in historic downtown Grand Rapids. They offer art classes, host two art galleries that change exhibits monthly, and a gift shop where they sell local artists and Minnesota artists work. The new Giinawind Creative Space at MacRostie Art Center is a gathering place for the creative community, an opportunity for cultural connections, and a catalyst for community development through the arts. You can also take a self-guided art and historic walk through downtown Grand Rapids. There are several historic attractions where you can discover Minnesota history like the Judy Garland Museum, the Children’s Discovery Museum, the Itasca County Historical Society, and the Forest History Center. All of these museums are welcoming to everyone and all ages. This is an opportunity to explore new historic sites and learn more about Minnesota’s history.

 

#8: Beautiful Art & Cultural Experiences

Top 10 low snow things to do

While you are visiting the MacRostie Art Center, you have to spend time in the Giinawind Creative Space. The Giinawind Creative Space is a gathering place for the creative community, an opportunity for cultural connections, and a catalyst for community development through the arts. Enjoy the beautifully created art and attend cultural experiential events in the Giinawind Creative Space. Giinawind is an Ojibwemowin inclusive pronoun that means we/us and. It was chosen for the name of this program because it reflects the vision for a space that centers Indigenous art and artists while welcoming the whole community.

 

#9: Boutique Style Shops

top 10 low snow things to do

In historic downtown you will find locally owned boutique style shops that offer one of a kind items like home decor, gift, jewelry, locally created art, stained glass, furniture, clothing, and so much more! While downtown you will want to take a self-guided tour of Old Central School. And take a self-guided tour of the Grand Rapids Art & Historic Site that are located south of the Mississippi River that flows right through downtown.

#10: Warm & Cozy Lodging

low snow things to do

In Grand Rapids, Minnesota you will find a wide variety of warm and cozy places to stay. In town Hotels, Motels, Vacation Rentals and Bed and Breakfasts are conveniently located near places to shop, eat & drink, and in town trails, and the golf course. The Minnesota Resorts are located on beautiful lakes and situated in more remote locations while still offer close by facilities to eat & drink, get gas, and shop. The Vacation Lake Rentals are located on pristine area lakes and offer you full home amenities and 1-5 bedrooms. Many of the properties offer fireplaces and fireplace suites to cuddle up by after you experience our winter wonderland. The wide variety of warm and cozy lodging, gives you many opportunities to come to northern Minnesota during a low snow winter season. Resource: Book Your Lodging

 

Start your planning now by viewing the interactive Grand Rapids Visitor’s Guide, and viewing the Winter Page which will highlight top things to do in the winter, winter resources, and trail conditions and ice fishing reports. Start Planning HERE.

Get Outdoors Into A Winter Wonderland In Grand Rapids

get outdoors into a winter wonderland

a WINTER wONDERLAND UP NORTH

get outdoors into a winter wonderland

This winter get outdoors into a winter wonderland in Grand Rapids. This small, charming town located in northern Minnesota is known for an abundance of outdoor recreation. You can most always count on snow and ice (with the exception to last winter when nobody had snow in Minnesota). This northern Minnesota town has over 1 million publicly accessible forest acres surrounding it. And within these publicly accessible forest acres, there are over 1,100 area lakes and over 2,000 miles of designated trails. And only 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids you can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding terrain, and snowtubing. In addition to an abundance of wintery trails and ski hills, you will also find cozy lodging, fun places to eat & drink, boutique style shops, historic sites and cultural experiences, live theater performances and live music. This small town up north will surprise you with its big offerings in the winter.

WINTER OUTDOOR RECREATION

get outdoors into a winter wonderland
Trail conditions

Whatever type of outdoor recreation you enjoy, you can enjoy it here! There are 288 KM of cross-country ski trails, over 200 miles of snowmobile trails and over 25 miles of mountain bike trails, and lots of forests to snowshoe on. For cross-country ski trails we suggest viewing the Northern Lights Nordic Ski Club Trail Map. For snowmobiling we suggest viewing the Itasca County Snowmobile Map, and for Mountain Biking we suggest viewing the Grand Rapids and Itasca Mountain Bike Association (GRIMBA). There are not snowshoeing trails or a map, but where there is public lands like the Chippewa National Forest, you can snowshoe there. Just remember to stay off of the groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, and cross these trails at a 90 degree angle. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids is Mt Itasca where you can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding terrain, snowtubing and cross-country skiing. The Grand Rapids, Minnesota is where you can get outdoors into a winter wonderland.

Find Winter Outdoor Recreation in Grad Rapids

INDOOR WINTER FUN

GET OUTDOORS INTO THE WINTER WONDERLAND
GET OUTDOORS INTO A WINTER WONDERLAND

When a day in the north woods has worked up your appetite, let us fill your belly with an array of places to eat. There is a wide variety of fun places to eat & drink in the greater Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. From places you can grab a quick-bite on the run, to sit-down locally owned restaurants where the locals go, to the off the beaten path bar & grills that are located right on the trails. We bet that you will be surprised by the number of places to eat & drink here in the greater Grand Rapids, MN area. 

You may be surprised to learn just how many attractions Grand Rapids, MN has to offer. We are home to many talented artists that you can explore through live performances, art walks & galleries. You can also be a part of the history in Grand Rapids by stepping back in time at one of our many historical attractions. You are sure to find things for all ages in Grand Rapids!

Find Things To Do In Grand Rapids

COZY LODGING WITH STUNNING WINTER VIEWS

get outdoors into the winter wonderland

You will find an abundance of lodging options in the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area. The choice is yours from in town Hotels, Motels, Bed and Breakfasts, AirBnB’s and Vacation Rentals that are accessible to the snowmobile trails, cross-country ski trails, mountain bike trails, and just 15-minute drive to ski hills. Several of the in town lodging properties have on site amenities like a pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast. Then there are Resort Cabins and Vacation Rental Homes that are located on frozen lakes and on the snowmobile, cross-country ski trails, and mountain bike trails. These properties have full kitchens and places for the entire family to gather together. With all of these options, there is short term lodging option that is perfect for the entire family. 

View Places To Stay

get outdoors into a winter wonderland

This winter get outdoors into a winter wonderland in Grand Rapids where you will find a small charming town that offers an opportunity to untap and reconnect with Minnesota’s nature. Start planning now by visiting Visit Grand Rapid’s Winter Page.

Celebrate Hygge Season in Grand Rapids

Rest, Relax, and Recharge

HYGGE

November is the perfect time of year for a little getaway up north to celebrate hygge season. The cooler weather is the perfect time to rent a cozy cabin in the woods or on a lake, book a fireplace Hotel suite, or find a cozy Bed and Breakfast in Grand Rapids. Embrace your right to slow down, unplug, sleep in late, cuddled up with a good cup of coffee or tea, and recharge. Honestly all of us need to allow ourselves to rest and relax more. Life gets crazy busy and full of schedules. When was the last time that you took the opportunity to slow down and booked a getaway just to rest, relax and recharge? Here is your opportunity!

HYGGE IN GRAND RAPIDS ITINERARY

hygge

FRIDAY:

·         Drive up to Grand Rapids after work. Only 1.5 hours west of Duluth, 2.5 hours north of St. Cloud, 3.5 hours north of Mnpls/St. Paul, 3.5 hours northeast of Fargo, and 4.5 hours north of Rochester.

·         Check Into Lodging Property, unpack, and get settled.

·         If you are located in town you can order delivery to eat in your lodging property. If not, you can head into down and grab a late dinner at Sammy’s Pizza, Rapids Brewing, or Timberlake Restaurant.

·         Then you can either head back to your lodging property, or you can go enjoy live music at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles (where they have live bands every Friday and Saturday night).

Tioga Snow on Trails 3

SATURDAY:

·         Enjoy a cozy morning in PJ’s cuddled up with a good book by the fireplace (if your property has one).

·         Enjoy continental breakfast (if your property offers that) or you can make spend time making breakfast with your friends and loved one’s at your lodging property (cabins and vacation rentals have apartment to full size kitchens that are fully stocked. Or you can grab breakfast in town at Dottie’s Café, Brewed Awakenings, or Country Kitchen.

·         If you don’t feel like doing much, you can stay in your PJ’s cuddled up with a good book. Or if you feel like seeking some low energy activities:

·         Stroll downtown through local boutiques shops, enjoy beautiful outdoor public art, tour the art galleries at MacRostie Art Center.

·         While downtown you can grab a cup of coffee and a homemade baked good at Brewed Awakenings, or stop into Unwined Up North for a Minnesota wine flight and an appetizer, or stop into Rapids Brewing for a craft beer flight and an appetizer.

·         At this point you can head back to the lodging property to just chill, read a book, play some games, or just listen to music while enjoying the nature views out the window.

·         Or, if you are up for some light activity you could take a scenic drive up the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway or the Avenue of the Pines Scenic Byway. Both are approximately 47 miles in length. They both offer historic sites, natural scenic views and vistas, places to hike and bike (trail access), places to rest (rest side stops with portable rest rooms), places to eat & drink, and places to shop.

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SUNDAY:

·         Again, enjoy a laid-back morning at the lodging property, either to take in continental breakfast, grab a quick bite, or take your time to enjoy a homemade breakfast at your lodging property.

·         Before you head back to your home base, take some time to get outside if you haven’t already while you were in Grand Rapids. Being out in Minnesota’s nature has a way of calming and reconnecting your thoughts to what is really important in your life. Doing this with friends and family can be a very spiritual experience, especially when the leaves are gone off the trees, the air is cool and crisp, and you take in being outdoors among the trees, the lakes/rivers, and wildlife. Listening the leaves rustle as the squirrel runs across gathering acorns or the deer crossing through the woods. Listening to the birds chirp and watching the eagles sore above, or listen and see the geese flying overhead.

·         Once you have had a chance to get some up north outdoor air in your lungs, now you are able to head back to your home.

 

·         Once Monday morning comes, you will feel refreshed and ready to take on the week’s work, schedules and challenges that could come your way.

hygge
Maybe you are interested in attending events, live music, live theater performances, or art/culture classes, there is always something going on in Grand Rapids. Discover more…

 

Some upcoming November/December Life Performances, Live Music and Events:

For more information: www.visitgrandrapids.com/events/calendar

November 1st is First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Grand Rapids

November 1st is Swan Lake at Reif Center

November 8th is the Vienna Boys Choir at Reif Center

November 9th there are multiple Art/Craft Shows in the Grand Rapids, MN Area

November 22nd is Reif Center Children’s Theater Presents Frozen

December 2nd is Christmas Carol at Reif Center

December 6th is First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Grand Rapids

December 13th is Reif Dance Presents the Nutcracker

December 14th is Christmas in the Logging Camp

December 18th Rock and Roll Christmas Spectacular

 

For more information: www.visitgrandrapids.com/winter

Fall Hunting & Fishing in Grand Rapids, MN

fall hunting and fishing

Fall Fishing

Fall Hunting and Fishing
National Grouse Society Hunt

Tom Neustrom, Professional Fishing Guide (owner of MN Fishing Connections) writes this Fall Hunting and Fishing in Grand Rapids, MN blog article that showcases that wide variety of sport fishing and hunting in the Grand Rapids, MN area. Tom is an inductee of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and the MN Fishing Hall of Fame. Tom is a professional representative for many major outdoor companies that manufacture outdoor fishing and hunting goods

fall hunting and fishing
Photo by: Stephen Kornacki

Being on the water for many years has given me an opportunity to observe many of Mother Nature’s changes throughout the seasons. Fall has become my all time favorite and there are so many reasons. The freshness and crispness of the air and taking deep breathes that are almost soothing is a great way to start your day. Early morning fog from the previous cool night drips off the trees and sparks a beginning to a fall day. Sounds of geese a mile high give an echoing that only nature can produce. These are just a few of the bells that ring letting us know that fall has arrived. Some of the maple trees are starting to show color ever so slowly as nature’s paint brush begins to change the surroundings to enhance the beauty of fall. 

FALL FISHING

fall hunting and fishing

Species of fish are also sensing that change is on the forefront of their daily lives and begin to feed more often and change locations. Their main diet is small minnows and other creatures that inhabit the bottom of the lakes. In the panfish world bloodworms that suspend daily are a target food that they will dial into. This happens simultaneously with the coming of the fall and it is just another play in the seasonal change that is about to take place. Its amazing with nature that this song is replayed every year and many times never noticed by us as individuals. Locational changes of “Here today and gone tomorrow” are something that is hard to detect. When on the water its, at times, hard to detect these changes that occur. But the fish know these far ahead of the anglers. We just have to catch up. Presentations change and the locations change allowing us to detect these fish presentations a whole lot differently. Its all about the learning curve of success. Fall is like no other time of year where change is detected by fish and also game. Going into the cold water period many species of fish and game know that weather will dictate their lives. Just a 4-6 degree water temperature change affects not only location for species such as walleyes, but it is something that anglers have been waiting for.

fall hunting and fishing

Fall walleye fishing is a tradition of the fall and it can be some of the best opportunities of the season to catch numbers and a trophy. The cooler water drives walleyes to feeding more often and shallower. Baitfish are also feeding on plankton and they are schooled up in masses. Not only do the walleyes seek them out but the young of the year loons left behind by the adults are feeding heavily before winter. This too can be a sign of walleyes location and other gamefish seeking easy meals this time of year. Many lakes in the Grand Rapids area provide great opportunities for fall walleyes. Pokegama, Big Winnie, Big Cutfoot, Bowstring, Jessie, and the Mississippi River all can provide great fishing for walleyes and other species. Northern Pike, Slab Crappies, Muskies, and Perch provide great fishing at this short period of time.

It doesn’t hurt to hire a fishing guide to minimize your time on the water seeking out your favorite fall species. Contact area bait shops such as Thousand Lakes in Grand Rapids, River Rat Bait in Cohasset, Fred’s Bait in Deer River, Winnie One Stop, and Max Mini Store in Squaw Lake for up to date fishing information and names of guides to contact.

FALL HUNTING

Fall Hunting and Fishing

Another fall ritual that is traditional as fishing is Grouse and Woodcock hunting. Many folks put their angling gear away begin the pursuit of grouse and the fast flying woodcock that abound in the woods around Grand Rapids. They both are wary of humans and noise. Walking the numerous trails north, south east and west of Grand Rapids will provide miles and miles of great habitat for both species. Having a good grouse and woodcock dog can be essential in flushing up birds especially in heavy cover. Again not a bad idea to have the guidance of a well known Grouse guide. Two of the best are Jeff(Cubby) Skelly of Deer River and Bill Heig at Bowens lodge. Can make all the difference in the world of contacting birds.

For more information see the below resource links: 

Grouse Hunting in the Grand Rapids, MN Area

Hunting

Fishing

PLACES TO STAY

Grand Rapids, Minnesota has a lot of places to stay that are friendly to fisherman and hunters. There are in town Hotels/Motels, Air BnB’s, and Vacation Rentals. Then there are Vacation Rentals and Minnesota Resort Cabins. Many of the short-term lodging properties are hunting dog friendly as well. Whether you are wanting to be in town and have on sight amenities, close to restaurants, and centrally located to lakes and trails. Or maybe you are looking to be located at a Resort or Vacation Rental that is on one of the 1,100 area lakes or located right on forest roads to access publicly accessible hunting land. The choice is yours! Search places to stay HERE.

Grouse Hunting in the Grand Rapids, MN Area

Grouse Hunting in the Grand Rapids

prime grouse hunting in northern minnesota

By Mark Orstad

Grouse Hunting in the Grand Rapids, MN Area. It’s no secret that Itasca County is home to some of the best ruffed grouse hunting in the country.  Vast tracts of public lands provide excellent opportunities for upland hunters to seek this prized game bird. Every fall in Itasca County, eager hunters from around the state and country descend upon the seemingly endless acres of woods and miles of trail in search of the ruffed grouse.   

grouse hunting in the grand rapids

The 2024 Ruffed Grouse Survey conducted by the Minnesota DNR reported drumming counts are up from the previous year.  This is promising news for grouse hunters. One such hunter that takes advantage of this great hunting opportunity is Amanda Ballengee.  For the past few years Amanda and her husband, Sam, travel over 1,000 miles from their home state of West Virginia to seek ruffed grouse in Itasca County. Amanda is a passionate grouse hunter who quickly realized how special northern Minnesota is in the fall.  Amanda sums it by saying  “What started as an adventurous trip in search of grouse hunting opportunities, has since turned into an extended vacation both my husband and I look forward to every fall. As a bird hunter, being able to flush more grouse in a single day, than we average during an entire season in West Virginia, is an opportunity I’m grateful for. While we enjoy the time with our setters in the grouse woods, we’ve come to appreciate all the area has to offer. From lake view cabins, the kind people, to the local businesses, and restaurants. We visited for the excitement of grouse hunting, and continue to come back for the entire northwoods experience.”

grouse hunting in the grand rapids

Minnesota offers a lengthy season to hunt grouse which starts in mid-September and typically ends on January 1st.  Check the MN DNR website for 2024 season dates, and information. This long season allows for hunters to be a part of seasonal changes in the forests from September to January. This makes grouse hunting the Grand Rapids, MN area so widely sought after. The early season provides green grass and leaves with cooler mornings and nights that lead into crisp fall foliage of brown, red and yellow, and then into barren white birch and tamaracks. 

One of the best ways to hunt grouse is by walking forest trails.  Grouse are what as known as edge birds. They are often found at “transition” areas in the woods.  A trail creates an edge, or transition, that has the habitat the grouse seek for food and shelter.   Often grouse come to these edges in the morning and evenings to pick gravel and feed on forage such as clover and berries.  If you flush a grouse from the trail, pay attention to the cover from which it flew. You will increase your chances of harvesting a bird if learn the specific areas where grouse like to spend their time.  As you gain experience you will learn to “think like a grouse”.   One excellent resource to learn more about grouse hunting is the Minnesota DNR website.  It contains great information on: basic gear needed, times of day to hunt, strategies on how to hunt grouse, as well as basic grouse biology. Here is the link:  https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/hunting/grouse/index.html

grouse hunting in the grand rapids

New to Grouse Hunting in the Grand Rapids, MN area: “How do I find public land in Itasca County open to hunting?”.   Now days it’s easier than ever to find public lands in Itasca county.  There are several cell phone apps that provide gps maps that show public land boundaries.  These are not only helpful once you are in the woods, but they allow hunters to scout areas ahead of time.  The MN DNR website also has a list of Ruffed Grouse Management Trails and Hunter Walking Trails if you scroll down you can search by county by selecting County tab at the top and switching to alphabetical order. Then scroll down to Itasca County, and several locations will come up. You can click on each trail name and it will show in the GeoPDF Map to the right. You can save and print these trail maps.

Once you decide on the area you want to hunt, roll down the window and take a drive.  The crisp fall air rushing through the window as you take in the vibrant autumn colors will set the scene for a great day afield.  The fresh air is free and the memories are priceless. 

Find Places To Stay

In the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area you will find a wide variety of lodging to fit every hunters needs. Whether you are looking for an in town location that allows dogs in the room, or maybe you are looking to rent an entire cabin, and you don’t have a dog. You will find the perfect short term lodging on Visit Grand Rapids. Search Lodging HERE.

MEA Family Getaway To Grand Rapids Minnesota

mea grand rapids mn

Fall Family Fun

MEA Family Getaway

Grand Rapids, MN is the perfect place to road trip to northern Minnesota for MEA Family Fun Weekend in Grand Rapids, MN. It is hard to getaway for a vacation with the kids during school, but MEA weekend allows parents to take a long weekend vacation in the fall. In Grand Rapids you can reconnect with loved ones, recharge in Minnesota’s nature, and relax by the lake or in the forest. With over 1,400 lakes and over 2,000 miles of trails there is lots of outdoor recreation to enjoy this fall in Grand Rapids, MN over MEA weekend. But, make sure that you book your MEA Family Fun Weekend in Grand Rapids, MN early. BOOK Lodging HERE.

BIKING

MEA Family Getaway

There are several places to bike over MEA in the fall. Legion Trail located in the American Legion Memorial Park located at The Reif Center parking lot includes a single track mountain bike trail, hiking trail and 18 holes of disc golf. Then there is the Mesabi Trail which is over 100 miles of paved trail that run from the Mississippi River in Grand Rapids to the Boundary Waters in Ely, MN. Whether you prefer paved biking trails or off-road mountain biking, the choice is yours. Find places to Bike in Grand Rapids HERE.

HIKING

MEA Family Getaway

With over 1 million acres of public accessible forest land, hiking over MEA is perfect for the entire family. You will find a hiking trail that is perfect for hiking with kids. 

1. Golden Anniversary State Forest – (LEVEL: EASY TO INTERMEDIATE) Located 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids on the Great River Road. The terrain includes flat ground to gently rolling hills. The forest is made up of hardwoods and pines that are used to produce timber, create wildlife habitat and opportunities for hunting.

2. Simpson Creek – (LEVEL: EASY TO INTERMEDIATE) Located 40 minutes northwest of Grand Rapids on County Road 46. This forest was established in 1907 by Sam Simpson. Located in the Chippewa National Forest, this trail is located next to the Cut Foot Visitor’s Center. This 13-mile trail is all non-motorized. 

3. Suomi Hills Trail – (LEVEL: EASY TO INTERMEDIATE)  Located 14 miles north of Grand Rapids, in the Chippewa National Forest. The remote and stunning Suomi Hills has 19 miles of hiking, biking, and ski trails and is part of a semi-primitive non-motorized area.

For additional hiking resources click HERE.

KID FRIENDLY MUSEUMS & HISTORIC SITES

MEA family getaway

In Grand Rapids, MN you will find several kid friendly museums where the kids will be able to be kids. At the Children’s Discovery Museum there is wide open spaces for them to play on the Lake Life equipment and interact with the exhibits. The Museum is perfect for ages toddlers to tweens. The Judy Garland Museum, under the same roof as the Children’s Discovery Museum, you can step back in time to the early 1900’s to relive life through Judy Garland’s career. Tour her house, and view the hundreds of exhibits and artifacts from her life’s career as a singer and actress. The Itasca County Historical Museum offers a chance to also step back in time and view many interesting historic artifacts like the wholly mammoth tusk, Native American artifacts, and new displays like the River Room, Veterans Room and many more. The Historical Museum also offers an Escape Room that is for children age 9+. Find more kid friendly Grand Rapids are attractions HERE.

PUMPKIN PATCH & HAYRIDES

Fall Things To Do

Cowhorn Crossing Farm & Pumpkin Patch is open in the Fall starting September 24-October 31, 2022. This farm offers fun for all ages. It is a great place to go to let the kids run off some energy, pet the farm animals, run through the corn maze, take a hayride through the field and woods, and pick out the perfect pumpkin. They are open Thursday and Friday 4-6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-6pm. The cost is only $8/person, and $7/person for groups that include a free small pumpkin (1 chaperone is free with 10 students). For more details on other Grand Rapids Events happening over MEA click HERE.

APPLE ORCHARDS & FARMERS MARKET

Fall Things To Do

Apple picking is perfect for a crisp fall day. In Grand Rapids there are two family-owned and operated apple orchards where you can purchase pre-picked or you can pick your own MN Grown apples. These hearty northern Minnesota varieties are perfect for baking, cooking, and eating. Lavalier’s Berry Patch and Apple Orchard is located right off the Great River Road, the Mississippi River is just a stones throw away. They grow strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins, and have beautiful apple trees. Then there is TimberSweet Apple Orchard that is located in Cohasset. They offer blueberries, apples, honey, and award winning maple syrup. TimberSweet can be found selling their produce and products at the Grand Rapids, MN Farmers Market on Wednesday and Saturday through October. 

KID FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT & DRINK

MEA Family Fun Weekend in Grand Rapids, MN

While on your MEA Family Fun Weekend in Grand Rapids, MN you will want to find kid friendly places to eat & drink. Both of the craft breweries are locally owned and operated and are both family friendly, and pet friendly. Klockow Brewing Company specializes in their craft beer, and also sells Minnesota Soda. They have food trucks on the weekend, and they allow food deliveries or for you to bring in food from Grand Rapids area restaurants. Rapids Brewing Co has a full menu including wood fired pizza, an amazing smash burger, and speciality items likes carneta nachos and chips and queso. In addition to the craft breweries, Grand Rapids offers many other kid friendly places to eat & drink: Unwined Up North, Zorbaz on Pokegama, Pickled Loon Saloon, Pokegama Grill, Florio’s, Forest Lake Restaurant, Hotel Rapids Bistro, Timberlake Lodge Restaurant, ElPotro, Fuji, Boulder Tap House and so many more! Find kid friendly restaurants HERE.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is the perfect place to take a long weekend with the kids over MEA weekend. Enjoy an abundance of outdoor recreation on the 1,400 lakes and over 2,000 miles of trails, enjoy the fall colors, take a scenic drive, go to the kid friendly museums and area attractions, and enjoy some down time to just relax at cozy lodging options with stunning views of Minnesota’s Nature! Everything you need to plan your tip can be found at: www.visitgrandrapids.com.