Blood moons, eclipse, super moons, meteor showers, northern lights and so much more. Make 2019 the year you explore the wonders of the night sky. Here is our short list of some of the Top Celestial Events to experience in Cook County this year. 

5 reasons why you must go cross country skiing this winter

There are several reasons cross country skiing is an excellent winter activity, most notably it gets you outside in the winter. But also, cross country skiing is very versatile, you can do it anywhere there is snow and it is a fantastic cardio workout that can burn up to 500 calories in one hour. What is not to love about that? Here are our top five reasons you should try cross country skiing this winter.

In Northern Minnesota, it is most common that soon after the lakes freeze a significant snow storm arrives.  This winter, on many of our lakes that was the case. They froze and the snow came. However, this year on iconic Gunflint Lake conditions were different.

Happy anniversary to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (commonly known as the BWCAW/BWCA)! On October 21, 1978 President Jimmy Carter signed the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Act into law, amending the national Wilderness Act of 1964.

While the 1964 National Wilderness Act included the BWCAW in the National Wilderness Preservation System, the new Act signed in 1978, set the course leading to the wilderness as it is known today. Each year, over 150,000 visitors travel from around the globe to explore the pristine waters that are home to moose, wolves, bears and more.

The Sky is Falling! Just kidding, it's the annual Perseid Meteor Shower. 

 Northern Minnesota’s night skies are spectacular for stargazing on any clear night. But this weekend there’s an extra special treat that we might be lucky enough to enjoy. If clear skies prevail as they are forecast now, it could be the kind of spectacular night show your kids will remember all their lives. Or maybe it’s the kind of moment with a special someone that’s usually reserved for Hollywood Rom-Coms. Whoever you may be with this weekend, or if you’re enjoying some solitude, don’t miss the chance to take in some magic. Or science. Observer’s choice.

Spring break. Every student’s rallying cry – and every teacher’s earned respite. Sometime between New Year’s and Valentine’s Day, spring break daydreams begin. You’re probably thinking about the perfect spring break destination. When you picture it, what do you see?

Catching a glimpse of the northern lights is at the top of many "bucket lists" but the number one question we hear is "where are the best places to view the northern lights in Minnesota?" With the help of local photographer, Bryan Hansel, we have created a comprehensive list of some of the best places to view the northern lights in Cook County, MN.  

Please note: These maps are intended for reference only. Please pick up an official road map for offline navigation. Locations identified can be done individually or as a driving route. Not all roadways accessible year-round or maintained regularly. Proceed with caution during winter months and observe all road signs or closures. Visit Cook County is not responsible for lost or stranded drivers.  Safety is at the discretion of the driver. 

Moose rescued from Hungry Jack Lake after breaking through the ice

Sweetwater season. March and April are known as the sweetest times of the year, when the days grow long and the sap starts flowing. The air is thick with the smell of maple syrup. 

This story is shared with us by our administrative manager, Molly O'Neill. Photos by the other resident syruper at Visit Cook County - Kjersti Vick, marketing manager.