7 Best Winter Activities When Visiting Itasca State Park

As the oldest state park in Minnesota, Itasca State Park has more than 100 lakes in it's 32,000+ acres. It makes sense considering it resides in the state of 10,000+ lakes. Although there's a large concentration of wildlife in the area with lots of things to do, Itasca State Park is most famous for being home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Even in the winter months, you'll have an incredible time if you're willing to embrace the cold for some of Minnesota's best outdoor activities!

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What to Expect in the Winter

Although certain areas of the park might be closed down in the winter months, there's still plenty to do - especially if you're willing to embrace the cold! From ice fishing to hiking, snowshoeing to fat tire biking, we personally think winter is one of the best times to experience the Minnesota Northwoods, just make sure to purchase your permit if you're planning on exploring. If you're new here or this is your first time visiting the area, here's some tips we recommend keeping in mind :

• Bring Layers - weather in Minnesota can change fairly quickly, especially in the winter, we recommend wearing extra layers like a thermal and having a rain proof layer with you
• Have a Car Emergency Kit - many areas around the Itasca State Park area don't have the best cell service, so incase something happens and you get stuck in the cold, it's best to have an emergency kit in the car with you that includes snacks, water, flares, blanket, and jumper cables
• ​Stay Aware of Wildlife - we've seen multiple bears in the area before, and although it's not common in the winter, it's still smart to stay bear aware​

You might also be looking for a place to stay, and although there's some winter camping at Pine Ridge Campground - we highly recommend booking a stay at the Northwoods A-Frame which sleeps 6. Not only are they only 10 minutes from Itasca State Park's North Entrance - but the property sits on 40 acres and is a great option for those looking to "disconnect to reconnect" while enjoying some rest and relaxation. If you're traveling alone or as a couple and looking for something smaller, they also have 2 tiny cabins onsite - however all 3 options have a wood-fire stove inside to make the winter months even cozier! ;)

7 Best Winter Activities in Itasca

1. The Mississippi River Headwaters
​The most famous thing to do at Itasca State Park, no matter the season, is to visit and cross the the Mississippi River! The headwaters are located at the Mary Gibbs Visitor Center, and require just a short hike from there to the river. Because the path is wide and flat, it's accessible to just about anyone, and it's tradition for visitors to the park to attempt to cross over the river on the rock path. This is also the spot where we saw a mama black bear with three of her cubs!

2. Ice Fishing
​During the winter months, lakes in Minnesota freeze over, making it the perfect state for ice fishing! You'll need to have a fishing license for the state of Minnesota, and if you plan to fish in Itasca State Park you can find walleye, perch, crappie and northern. We recommend trying Lake Itasca first, just make sure you know the ice thickness before heading out! The state DNR recommends 4+ inches of ice to be deemed safe enough to walk out.

3. The Visitor Centers
​There are 2 visitor centers in Itasca State Park. The one most people encounter first is the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center, here you can purchase your daily permit and it's a great place for visitors with kids. They have multiple exhibits, a relaxing spot with a large fireplace, and even a play area for kids.

The Mary Gibbs Visitor Center has a restaurant and gift shop, however these are open seasonally and typically not in the winter months. Here, you can visit the infamous Mississippi River Headwaters.

4. Snowshoeing/Cross Country Skiing
​Once you check the local trail conditions, you can rent some gear from the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center (or bring your own) and head out on the trails in Itasca State Park. We recommend visiting the Twinkle Light Trail in the evening for a fun winter lights illuminated trail! You can choose either the 1/4 mile long loop or the 1/2 mile long loop, just keep in mind that the lights turn off at 10 pm. Another popular snowshoeing trail is the Dr. Roberts, Brower, or Schoolcraft Trails.

5. Hiking
​Depending on local snow accumulation, you might even be able to head out on a hike during your winter visit to the park! We recommend hiking down the stairways at Preachers Grove or Peace Pipe Vista - of course we also recommend hiking out to the Mississippi River Headwaters!

6. Attend a Nature Event
​Itasca State Park has many naturalist led events and programs, after checking their events calendar you can choose to sign up for one of their events - they have many things to choose from in the park like educational programs or guided hikes!

7. Go Snowmobiling
​If you're looking for a bit more adventure while visiting Itasca State Park, then we recommend trying out snowmobiling! The closest place to rent snowmobiles if you don't have your own is most likely at Up North Outfitters in Park Rapids, about 30 minutes south of the park. There are a few trails that run along the outer edge of Itasca State Park, and you'll need to make sure that your snowmobile is registered through the state and that you have your Minnesota Safety Certificate.

Watch our Adventures in Itasca/Bemidji here!

Pin this Winter Guide to Itasca State Park here!