Enjoy the fine art of Hygge at its finest. Through the month of February, you can cozy up by a roaring fire with your nearest and dearest at some of the most spectacular fireplaces in the region. Take the Cook County Fireplace Tour this February and discover the best winter vacations.

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.

Lake Superior Shipwrecks and Storms

Sailing the seas has long been one of the world’s riskiest and most dangerous professions. Years ago, shore dwellers knew that when a loved one went off to sea, they often didn’t return. While the oceans, naturally, pose the biggest threat, Lake Superior is so vast it has claimed many ships into her cool depths. With weather that can change at the drop of a hat, Lake Superior has claimed hundreds of ships for her own.

Modern technology has made sailing and shipping on Lake Superior much safer, but she is still a mighty force to be reckoned with when the Gales of November rush through. Over the years, Lake Superior shipwrecks have dwindled, but there are a few notable wrecks near Cook County.

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?

Super Bowl fever has caught on in the Twin Cities, and while it is an excellent boost to the local economy, it sure is a headache for many Twin Cities residents. So why not escape the madness, and head north to the real #boldnorth.

Cook County, Minnesota is the ultimate winter vacation destination. There’s simply no better place to embark on a winter adventure. Things are quieter up here in winter, which means it’s the perfect time to explore. You’ll feel like you have the trails to yourself. Fewer lines at your favorite restaurants, the nation’s darkest skies and the most beautiful show of northern lights make regular appearances.

For many, catching a glimpse of this stunning natural phenomenon is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s a chance to experience the mystical, feel connected with something almost otherworldly and experience natural beauty at its utmost perfection. There is simply no comparison to seeing the northern lights with your own eyes.

How to harvest the perfect Christmas tree in the Superior National Forest

Have you ever harvested your own Christmas tree from the forest? If you are someone who likes to choose your own adventure and drink hot chocolate from a thermos while wearing a festive flannel - Christmas tree hunting is for you! For as little as $5 you can embark on a memory filled adventure out into the forest to find the perfect Balsam fir tree.

What you’ll need to make your outing successful:

Finding your inner warmth - Hygge Season

The Thrillist recently ranked Minnesota #1 in its list of every state, ranked by how miserable its winters are. Please, not to name names, but I think we can think of several worse places. With almost 6 million Minnesota proud residents, we know it’s not all bad. Sure, reading the thermometer on a frigid below zero morning can be disheartening, but temps ain’t nothing but a number. With our guidance, the proper attire, and a good attitude - winter might even become your favorite time of the year.

1. Layers are a Minnesotan’s best friend. While cotton is great for keeping you cool in the summer months, there are only four words you need to know to survive winter: merino wool base layers. Wearing the right kind of garment underneath your outerwear will keep you nice and toasty no matter the wind-chill.
2.  Sun’s out, you’re out. Staying inside day after day is a surefire way to sour even the most optimistic soul on winter. Even though the thermometer reads well below zero, getting out for a daily dose of Vitamin D is critical. Going for a ski, snowshoe, hike, snowmobile ride, or ice fishing will do wonders for your mental well-being even if it is just for a short bit. So layer up and get out!
3.  Get out at night. It’s easy to lose motivation once the sun goes down, but don’t let the cold stop you. Catch some live music. Do a little stargazing (and maybe even northern lights?!) and if an opportunity for a moonlight ski arises – do it! Gliding through the sparkling boreal forest is a bucket list must.
4. Hygge like there is no tomorrow. Hygge is the ritual of embracing life’s simple pleasures. Feeling relaxed, cozy and surrounded by the warmth of family, friends and fire. So go ahead, have a second cup of hot chocolate today, you’ve earned it!

You've heard our suggestions for finding warmth, what are yours? How do YOU find warmth in winter? Connect with us on Social Media

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