8+ Exciting Things to Do on the Gunflint Trail this Winter with Kids

This post featuring fun winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

The Gunflint Trail is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Minnesota. Undoubtedly, from its towering pines to its pristine lakes, this area is a bucket list destination for many families. Winter visitors will have no shortage of fun experiences, from spotting wildlife to hiking along the last of Minnesota’s untouched wilderness. Due to its remote location, however, planning a winter getaway to the Gunflint Trail can feel daunting. Luckily, I’ve pulled together my favorite winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail, as well as some tips and packing advice, to help you plan. I’ve included kid-friendly hiking trails, where to eat, and more throughout this article! Keep reading to plan your winter escape to the Gunflint Trail with (or without!) kids.

Where is the Gunflint Trail?

Perhaps you’ve heard of the “Gunflint Trail” – but what is it anyway? 

It’s easy to feel like the Gunflint Trail is its own city in Minnesota. And, in many ways, it kind of is. It’s isolated, many of its residents have lived there for generations and know one another well, and it has its own culture centered on its remote experience and epic outdoor spaces. 

Technically, however, it’s a scenic byway, or a stretch of road, from downtown Grand Marais to its end at Saganaga Lake (a border lake between the US and Canada). The Gunflint Trail is located within the city limits of Grand Marais and Cook County. In its entirety, it is 57 miles long.

The area is widely known as one of Minnesota’s best places to see moose. It is also known for its BWCA entry points. Then, winter on the Gunflint Trail is marked by cold temperatures, beautiful snow (the average snowfall is nearly 100 inches), peaceful forests, and incredible outdoor adventures. Keep reading to discover the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail!

READ NEXT: 12+ Best Things to Do in Grand Marais this Winter for Families

Tips + Packing List for the Gunflint Trail this Winter

Before diving into the best things to do with kids on the Gunflint Trail this winter, there are a few things to know about visiting during the winter season. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful winter getaway to the Gunflint Trail with kids.

It is Considered the “Off Season”

Winter is still considered the off-season in Grand Marais and along the Gunflint Trail. As such, expect restaurants and shops to have irregular or varying hours. Or, to be closed for the season entirely. This is especially true during the stretch between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Many restaurants close during this time. Google may not always be reliable; check each website for updates.

I recommend plotting your restaurants out ahead of time, as many of them have specific days they are closed. You don’t want to be surprised or caught off guard on a day when many of your top picks are closed. Justine’s at Gunflint Lodge and White Pine Lodge offer the only year-round dining on the Gunflint Trail.

Then, you won’t find many places for gas or groceries on the Gunflint Trail during the winter. Fuel up and grab any groceries you need before leaving Grand Marais.

A Note About the Weather

Grand Marais is pretty far north (only 45 minutes from the Canadian border). As such, the weather in Grand Marais is generally cooler than in the Twin Cities metro, or other parts of the United States. The weather can be unpredictable, and driving can present a challenge during the winter, but it is still worth a trek to spend a few days exploring and finding ways to enjoy the long winter months we have in Minnesota.

Here is the monthly average high/low temperature (in Fahrenheit) for the Gunflint Trail during the winter months (November – April). However, it’s important to note that temps can vary widely depending on where in Grand Marais you are. For example, it is always cooler near the lake than up the Gunflint Trail. In the winter, you can reasonably expect some sub-zero temperatures, especially in early January. 

• November 33° / 23°
• December 21° / 10°
• January 14° / 1°
• February 16° / 2°
• March 30° / 16°
• April 41° / 27°

Packing

The exact packing list for your Gunflint Trail winter getaway will depend on the things you want to do. To get you started, though, here are a few things I know you will need (in addition to what you usually pack):

• For your vehicle: You will want snow tires and 4-wheel drive on the Gunflint Trail in the winter. It also helps to have jumper cables and a shovel in the vehicle, just in case.
• Layers: Weather can change often and quickly on the Gunflint Trail. No matter what season you visit, pack layers. Pack 3-4 layers for outdoor adventures in the winter, including base layers (Merino wool or synthetic), fleece mid-layers, and a protective outer shell (heavy winter coat, best if wind- and water-resistant). Down vests can be a great secondary mid-layer!
• Hats, wool socks, mittens, balaclavas, and other accessories. To pair with your layers, ensure your extremities are covered, too!
• Hiking Gear (including winter boots and ice cleats) if you plan to hit the trails. Some people may also want to bring snowshoes or hiking poles.
• Seasonal protective items like sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, etc. You will still need sunscreen in the winter.
• Books + games! Don’t forget you’re on vacation – have some fun games and books available for downtime.
• Drinking water. A lot of cabins rely on well water. If you are picky about the taste of your water, you may want to pack your own.
• Not sure what else you’ll need? Ask me! Or, reach out to your accommodations; they will have great ideas, too (not to mention, know what they have on-site for you already).

READ NEXT: How to Dress Kids for a Minnesota Winter (by a Mom Who Knows!)

Find Winter Gear We Love Here!

Additional Tips for Visiting the Gunflint Trail with Kids

• The Gunflint Trail does not have cell service. Ensure you know your route + have your maps downloaded for offline use. Likewise, make sure your cabin has WiFi. And, finally, tell someone your travel plans and when to expect to hear from you.
• Drive carefully. Roads can be icy, and it’s likely you will encounter wildlife.
• Again, ensure you have plenty of gas before leaving downtown Grand Marais. It is very secluded on the Gunflint Trail. And, the only place I’m aware of for gas is Trail Center (which will have limited winter hours).
• Give yourself at least 3 full days on the Gunflint Trail. It’s a long drive, so be sure you’ve left enough time to explore + enjoy the area.
• Pack any groceries you need, or get them in downtown Grand Marais before trekking up the Gunflint Trail.

Best Things to Do on the Gunflint Trail with Kids this Winter

Ready to explore some of the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail? Here are a few of our favorites! Plus, I’ve shared a few more options below if you’re planning an extended visit or are interested in more outdoor adventure options in the area.

READ NEXT: How to Spend 3+ Days in Grand Marais with Kids this Winter

Discover the Enormous Magnetic Rock 

One of the best things to do near Grand Marais this winter is undoubtedly hiking or snowshoeing! And, one of my favorite hikes on the Gunflint Trail is Magnetic Rock Trail. The trailhead is located near the end of the Gunflint Trail. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead. And, there is no entrance fee.

Magnetic Rock Trail is a moderate 4.3-mile out-and-back trail. Home to a scientific marvel and a true North Shore hidden gem, this trail will thrill kids and adults alike. The hike twists and turns around boulders, streams, ancient lava flows, and woods. Along the trail, you can also enjoy several gorgeous views of the valley below. SP has declared this one of her “favorite hikes ever”, so I know it will be a hit with your kids too!

The piece de resistance, however, is the 60-foot monolith at the end of the trail. Remember to bring a magnet and a compass to test against this magnetic stone. This hike will take half a day for the experience (minimum), so plan accordingly. It’s best to plan to hike it in the morning. When planning a winter trip to the Gunflint Trail, put this hike at the top of your list!

Hike (or Snowshoe) Honeymoon Bluff

Looking for a low-effort, big-impact hike during your Gunflint Trail winter getaway? Honeymoon Bluff is a great option! We love this hike for its views and birdwatching. The loop trail is less than one mile, offering a quick trek with incredible views of Hungary Jack Lake. 

The first part of the trail is steep and does include some rustic stairs. But the views from the top make it one of the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail! Pack your headlights or a flashlight, and make it a sunset hike. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead. There is no fee for hiking here.

Hiking Gear for Kids We Love

Look for Moose Along South Lake Trail

The closest I’ve ever been to seeing a moose was on this trail! South Lake Trail offers beautiful lake views and fun opportunities to see wildlife tracks in the snow. During our recent hike, we saw tracks for moose, lynx, grouse, and snowshoe hare. In fact, we saw all sorts of moose signs, including scat, tree rubbings, plant nibbles, and tracks! No actual sightings, but it was enough to know they were there!

This trail is about 2.4 miles, out and back, from Poplar Lake to Birch Lake. The trailhead is right off the Gunflint Trail near Rockwood Lodge. Parking is available at Rockwood Lodge (do not park on the Gunflint Trail or the nearby private entrances). The trail ends when it reaches Birch Lake; however, you will notice the actual trail continues on if you want a longer trek.

Generally considered moderately challenging, this trail is steep in some areas. Plus, there are exposed roots/rocks and some boardwalks through the marshy areas. Pay attention to your route, though; the trail may not be well-marked in some areas. 

Finally, please note, that a BWCA travel permit is needed for day use of South Lake Trail. You can fill out a self-issuing permit (located near the trailhead). If you’re looking for signs of wildlife, this is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on the Gunflint Trail for families!

Trek Along Moose Viewing Trail

Another trail we love along the Gunflint Trail is Moose Viewing Trail. Due to its short length, less than one-mile out-and-back, it’s ideal with kids. In the winter, this trail can be spectacular in the snow. Its large pines cling to new-fallen snow, making it a winter wonderland for families. 

Starting in the parking lot, hike up the snowmobile trail for about a quarter mile (watch and listen for sleds!) until the trail continues through the woods on the right. Follow the trail through the woods. Have kids keep an eye out for the old car hidden in the woods! The trail leads to a viewing platform, where you can take in the views of Moose Lake. 

Finally, this area is a moose habitat, making sightings possible. Be on the lookout for tracks and other evidence of wildlife! The parking lot is right off the Gunflint Trail (you’ll see a sign if you’re driving up the trail). As one of the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail, there is no fee to hike here either.

READ NEXT: A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota

Dinner at Justine’s at Gunflint Lodge

During your winter getaway up the Gunflint Trail, you have to eat at Justine’s at Gunflint Lodge. Personally, I think it’s one of the best places to eat on the Gunflint Trail. Located at Gunflint Lodge, they have been serving the community for more than 80 years. The quaint lodge atmosphere, mixed with great food and cocktails, makes it a unique and undeniably Minnesotan dining experience for all ages.

Plus, Justine’s knows Northwood’s flavors. The menu features delicious fare from duck and walleye to wild rice and tater tot hot dish – a true Minnesota classic! Then, a dedicated kids’ menu is also available for little travelers. Make sure you finish dinner with their table-side flambéed S’mores Baked Alaska. You won’t regret it!

Justine’s is also open most days for lunch and breakfast too. Finally, dinner reservations are required.

Look for Wildlife

After the fall foliage drops, visibility in the forest and amongst the many winter landscapes of the Gunflint Trail increases, allowing for more wildlife sightings! Plus, many animals (moose included) like to lick the salt off the Gunflint Trail during the winter. 

While driving up and down the Gunflint Trail, it is possible to see many local critters, including gray fox, lynx, moose, snowshoe hare, and more. I’ve seen them all at one time or another, except for moose (that’s the dream!). If you have animal-loving kids, watching for wildlife is one of the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail, whether by vehicle or by trail. Just be sure to keep your distance and maintain safety for you and the animals you may see.

Stay at a Cozy Cabin

Finding a cozy cabin is one of the best ways to experience the Gunflint Travel this winter. Not only will it allow you immediate access to some of Minnesota’s best natural wonders, but inside, you have room to spread out, play games, and make memories together. There are various options across the Gunflint Trail, from single-family home rentals to lodges featuring lakeside cabins or townhomes.

We recently spent 3 nights at Norfee Cottage, located on Poplar Lake, and loved it! It’s a great location for anything you plan to do during your Gunflint Trail winter getaway. Norfee Cottage features lake views, 3 bedrooms, a wood-burning stove, a huge, well-equipped kitchen, and plenty of board games!

If you’re looking for more places to stay on the Gunflint Trail with kids, consider:

• White Pine Lodge
• Hungry Jack Lodge & Campground
• Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters

Embrace Hygge with a Fire Place + Games

Hygge perfectly captures the essence of a cozy Gunflint Trail winter getaway. Here, it’s not just a word; it’s a feeling of quiet happiness and well-being amongst the tall pines and near one of the many frozen lakes. Embracing hygge stands out as one of the top winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail, and the beauty is there’s no wrong way to do it. Whether indoors or outdoors, the key is finding activities that bring your family a sense of cozy contentment and joy.

Imagine snuggling up in a warm cabin with your loved ones, surrounded by blankets as new snow falls like a snow globe. Or, spend a peaceful afternoon reading by the fire. Alternatively, engage in a more active afternoon by working on a puzzle or playing cards. 

Outdoors, take a quiet moment to hike or snowshoe together. Or, search for wildlife prints in the snow. Whatever you choose, the essence of Hygge lies in finding a way to savor the present moment with your family.

More Fun Things to Do on the Gunflint Trail with Kids

Looking for a few more winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail? There are so many thrilling outdoor adventures to be had! Add one or two of these exciting activities to your winter getaway itinerary on the Gunflint Trail with kids.

• Enjoy the view from the Laurentian Divide Scenic Overlook (there is a small trail from the left side of the parking lot to the lake, too)
• Ice Fishing
• Snowmobiling – Snowmobile rental and guided tours are available from the Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters.
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing – Magnetic Rock Trail and Honeymoon Bluff are great options.
• Dog Sledding –  Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters usually has tours each season.
• Ice Skating –  Try wild skating on one of the many lakes, or check with Gunflint Lodge for access to their lighted skating rink.
• Fat Tire Biking –  Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters offers rentals and trail recommendations.
• Enjoy the Northern Lights – review the Northern Lights forecast for details during your visit.
• Want to attend an event? The Gunflint Mail Run and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon are two excellent winter events on the Gunflint Trail!

READ NEXT: 8 EPIC Bucket List Winter Getaways in Minnesota for Families to Play in the Snow

More Places to Eat along the Gunflint Trail

There are a few more places to eat on the Gunflint Trail this winter. Just be sure to check their hours in advance to ensure they are open during your stay. After exploring one of the many fun things to do on the Gunflint Trail for families, grab a bite at:

• Trail Center At Poplar Lake (great for homestyle food and burgers)
• White Pine Lodge (great for pizza)
• Poplar Haus (try anything with walleye!)
• Hungry Jack Lodge

Keep Exploring the Gunflint Trail with Kids!

I hope this article on the best winter things to do on the Gunflint Trail with kids is helpful in planning your own trip! Whether your family is looking for a cozy cabin experience or thrilling outdoor adventures this winter, this area of Minnesota has much to offer for all ages. There’s nothing quite like a quiet Gunflint Trail winter getaway! 

Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.