Get Outside This Winter
Embrace the spirit of the winter through a collection of outdoor sports and activities that are sure to add some thrill to this chilly season.
The Bold North
A favorite Minnesota pastime is debating how long winter, in fact, really is.
Whether you measure it from the official start of winter (December 21), the first snowfall (all bets are off after September here), or your own personal measuring stick, the fact remains that it can easily be jacket and boots weather in Minnesota from late October clear through April.
Which means that January and February are no time to hunker and hygge. Increased daylight (two minutes per day from the solstice!) means opportunities to suit up and get moving.
Get outside and get active!
Winter Sports
Skiing
Cross Country Ski at Battle Creek Recreation Center, Highland National Golf Course, Como Park Ski Center, or Tamarack Nature Center. No gear? No problem! Equipment rentals are available at select locations.
Downhill Ski and Snowboard at Como Park Ski Center (Mount Como), which features two rope tows, a 150-foot vertical drop on 15 skiable acres, over 5K of cross-country trails, lessons, and equipment rentals.
Skating
Ice skate outdoors at a seasonal ice rink at one of many parks and recreation centers across the city. For a map of ice rinks in Saint Paul, click here.
Downhill Sledding
Glide down a sledding hill at a collection of thrilling locations in the Capital City.
Cruising the Capital City
Coast on a Fat Tire Bike Trail in Highland Park through the bluffs lining the Aquatic Center, Highland 9 Golf Course, and the Highland Disc Golf Course.
Winter Festivities
Ice Castles
December 26, 2025, through February 21, 2026
Head to the grounds of the Great Minnesota Get Together to experience the ultimate winter wonderland. This awe-inspiring seasonal phenomenon features decorated caverns, ice and snow sculptures, a frosty ice bar, and so much more.
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
January 22 through February 1, 2026
The Coolest Celebration on Earth: the Saint Paul Winter Carnival celebrates 140 years this year. The 10-day festival attracts over 100,000 visitors for winter-themed celebrations, events, and parades in Minnesota.
This year’s outdoor activity highlights include an ice-fishing tournament, an annual snow stomp, an ice-carving competition, scavenger hunts, a snow maze, and the crowning glory of the Torchlight Parade and fireworks in Rice Park.
The Winter Beer Dabbler
February 21, 2026
Midwest's biggest and best beer festival is back for another season at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Head over to the Mighty Midway to sample great beer from breweries all over the United States while enjoying music, food trucks, and other thrilling attractions.
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