Snowboarder in pink jacket carving down a snowy slope at sunset.

Explore Minnesota’s Legendary North Shore

Red gondola over snowy mountain landscape with trees.

Getting Here is Part of the Adventure

Lutsen is an easy drive from major Midwestern cities like Minneapolis, Madison, Rochester, Fargo, and Sioux Falls. Your North Shore escape begins the moment you hit Scenic Highway 61, a lakeside byway ranked among America’s most beautiful drives. In just four hours from the Twin Cities, you’ll arrive to sweeping Lake Superior views, snowy forests, and welcoming towns. All without the hassle of flights or airport lines, just time well spent reconnecting with family and friends.

Winter Adventures Beyond the Slopes

When you’re ready to step off the mountain, the North Shore offers some of the best winter activities in the Midwest.

Group hiking uphill in snow, with mountain and forest in the background.

Snowshoeing

Strap on a pair of snowshoes and go for a quick kid-friendly jaunt or a full-day adventure exploring Cook County

Two people in red jackets cross-country skiing in a snowy forest.

Cross Country Skiing

Cook County, Minnesota is home to the largest cross-country trail network in North America.

Snowmobiles on a snowy trail through a forest.

Snowmobiling

With 450 miles of trails that wind through the wildest, most breathtaking scenery in Minnesota, Cook County snowmobiling is like nowhere else in the Midwest.

Dogs pulling a sled through snowy forest with a person driving.

Dog Sledding

Dogsleds were the original snowmobiles, transporting people across the snow-frosted forests and ice-kissed lakes of the north

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Over 400 miles of cross-country ski trails and 450+ miles of snowmobile trails across Cook County.

Towns & Local Flavor

Each town along the North Shore adds something unique to your winter vacation.

Cozy cafés, local breweries, and North Shore favorites like The Fisherman’s Daughter and Coho Café & Bakery offer the perfect warm-up between adventures.

Discover North Shore Dining & Shopping

Autumn forest and river viewed from a gondola.

Lutsen & Tofte

The heart of ski country, with slopeside lodging, dining, and trail access.

Rocky beach with gentle waves and overcast sky.

Schroeder

A quiet gem where Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline takes center stage.

Aerial view of a coastal town with sailboats in a bay and a lighthouse on a pier.

Grand Marais

A harbor town named “America’s Coolest Small Town,” known for galleries, artisan shops, and lakefront charm.

Events & Winter Spirit

The North Shore doesn’t just celebrate winter, it embraces it. From cozy gatherings to lively festivals, every weekend has something to offer.

What’s Happening This Winter

Man singing into a microphone, wearing a leather jacket and colorful shirt.
Snow-covered coastline at sunset with houses and forests.

Stay & Relax

End your day with the warmth of true North Shore hospitality. Choose from slopeside studios, lakeside cabins, or forest hideaways. Many lodging options include hot tubs, saunas, and fireplaces—the perfect place to enjoy a hygge-inspired evening.

Explore Lodging Options

Why the North Shore?

Easy to Reach

Lutsen is a convenient drive from most major Midwestern cities including Minneapolis, Madison, Rochester, Fargo, and Sioux Falls.

More Ski Days, Lower Cost

Without the hassle of flights or airport lines meaning less time traveling and more time skiing, all at about one-third the cost of a comparable Western vacation.

Big Mountain Experience, Midwest Location

95 runs across four mountains, three high-speed lifts, and the Midwest’s only gondola.

Endless Adventure

Skiing plus hundreds of miles of trails for every winter sport.

True Destination Feel

A blend of big mountain terrain, small-town North Shore charm, and cozy winter hospitality.
 

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Skiers glide through snowy forest trail in winter setting.