Even as the days get shorter and temperatures drop, Minneapolis parks are brimming with fun seasonal activities. From outdoor recreation to festive events, there are countless ways to enjoy the season. Here are seven ideas to explore in the parks this winter:
1. Take a scenic walk through Minnehaha Falls 🍂
The trails around Minnehaha Falls offer a stunning glimpse of the falls and surrounding landscapes in winter. This iconic spot shines year-round, so bundle up for a scenic walk and capture some great photos! Enjoy the crisp air and natural beauty that makes this park a favorite in every season.
Fun-Fact: The Minneapolis Parks Foundation offices are located at the historic Longfellow House across from the Falls! (Is this pick a little biased? Maybe…)
2. Slide into winter fun with sledding and tubing! 🛷
As winter progresses, Minneapolis hills transform into sledding paradises. From gentle slopes at Valley View Park to the thrilling runs at Theodore Wirth Park, there’s fun for all adventure levels. Pack your sled, grab some friends or family, and enjoy a day of laughter and excitement.
Don’t forget: Bring some hot cocoa for a cozy post-sledding treat!
Find Sledding hills and guidelines.
3. Lace up for ice skating ⛸️
Minneapolis parks are preparing for cold temperatures and icefor skaters! Whether gliding outdoors at Powderhorn or enjoying a session at Northeast Ice Arena, ice skating is a must this season. Many locations even offer skate rentals and warming houses to keep you cozy between laps.
Find a rink and more information to plan your skating adventure!
4. Explore Minneapolis park trails 🌲
Many paved and dirt trails accessible remain accessible even as the snow falls. Perfect for walking, biking, or snowshoeing. Popular spots like Theodore Wirth Park and Hiawatha Golf Course showcase the season’s quiet beauty with fewer crowds.
Pro-tip: After exploring Theodore Wirth, grab a snack at the Trailhead & Mill Valley Market for a well-earned treat!Find trails and snowshoe rental information.
5. Find your groove with cross country skiing ⛷️
More than 20 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails twist and turn throughout Minneapolis parks. The trails, managed by the Loppet Foundation, vary from wide open stretches that offer stunning views of Downtown Minneapolis, to more private, wooded trails that lead to scenic lake overlooks.
Parks with cross-country ski trails:
Theodore Wirth Regional Park
Hiawatha Golf Course
Columbia Golf Course
Chain of Lakes
You can buy daily or seasonal passes online or at any of the Loppet’s winter locations (found at the links below).
Here’s more info on the Loppet Foundation – including trails and up to date conditions.
Here’s more from MPRB on ski passes for the season, as well as rental options.
6. Warm up in a mobile sauna 🧖🏽
A relatively new experience in Minneapolis parks, public sauna’s are popping up at a few parks across the city. Little Ember Co., a mobile sauna business, is hosting wood-fired sauna sessions this winter at Cedar Lake, where visitors can take a cold plunge in the city’s Chain of Lakes (Cost: $35 for public 75-minute sessions). And for the second year, FoxFire Breathworks has set up a sauna on the shores of Lake Nokomis, near the Nokomis Community Center (Cost: $30 for 80-minute public sessions). An ice hole will be maintained nearby by a group of ice dippers for an added experience.
7. Discover the Nicollet Island Winter Market and other events ❄️
Don’t miss the Nicollet Island Winter Market on Sunday, December 15! Shop for crafts, savor delicious treats, and soak up festive cheer by the Mississippi River. It’s a perfect way to support local vendors and embrace the season’s magic.
Looking for more seasonal fun? Minneapolis parks offer everything from indoor basketball programs to ceramics classes, gingerbread house workshops, and Winter Solstice celebrations. There’s truly something for everyone.
View the full events calendar from the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board.
Ready to Embrace Winter?
These are just a few ways to enjoy Minneapolis parks this winter. For even more parks inspiration, check out past listicles and upcoming posts on our blog, Common Ground. What’s your favorite way to enjoy the parks this winter? Let us know in the comments! 🌟
Featured image courtesy of Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.