When winter settles over Duluth, it turns the city into a living snow-globe—powdered trails, frozen waterfalls, and glowing lakeside sunrises included. Whether you’re craving downhill adrenaline, Nordic rhythm, or peaceful winter walks, these seven wonders deliver pure North Shore magic.
And yes—most winter attractions and trails in this guide are open, maintained, or actively preparing for the 2025–26 season, with only a few awaiting snowfall. Here’s what you need to know before you plan your trip.
1. Spirit Mountain: Duluth’s Winter Playground
Spirit Mountain is gearing up for the 2025–26 season with new improvements, including a new chairlift and upgraded snowmaking equipment. The mountain opens for downhill and Nordic skiing as soon as snow conditions allow.
What snow lovers enjoy:
- 22 downhill runs for all skill levels
- Night skiing
- Snow tubing and fat-tire biking
- Groomed Nordic trails once snow arrives
Status: Prepping for the season; opens once snowpack is ready.
2. Chester Bowl: A Cozy Neighborhood Ski Hill
Chester Bowl remains Duluth’s beloved family ski spot with affordable lift tickets and a laid-back vibe. The hill officially plans to open for the 2025–26 season on December 13, 2025, weather permitting.
Why it’s beloved:
- Community atmosphere
- Beginner-friendly slopes
- Lessons and rentals
- Family events throughout winter
Status: Scheduled to open December 13, 2025 (conditions dependent).
3. Park Point’s Winter Shoreline Walks
Park Point stays open year-round, and winter brings frosted shoreline paths, icy driftwood, and gorgeous sunrise horizons. No tickets, no closures—just nature at its most serene.
Expect:
- Miles of walkable shoreline
- Stunning ice formations
- Quiet, crowd-free mornings
Status: Open year-round; walkable as long as you’re bundled for lake winds.
4. Snowshoeing at Hartley Park
Hartley Park’s trails remain open for hikers and snowshoers all winter. Once snowfall deepens, the large wooded sections transform into perfect snowshoe terrain.
Why snow lovers enjoy it:
- Varied terrain
- Forested loops
- Plenty of unplowed side paths
Status: Open now; snowshoeing conditions depend on snowfall.
5. Skyline Parkway Overlooks
Skyline Parkway is fully open to travelers, offering panoramic city and lake views. After fresh snow, the overlooks look straight out of a winter postcard.
Winter wonders here include:
- Blue hour cityscapes
- Snow-laden evergreens
- Icy rock formations
Status: Open and driveable; conditions vary after storms.
6. Cross-Country Skiing in Lester Park
Lester Park is one of Duluth’s best Nordic areas, featuring groomed classic and skate trails once snow conditions are optimal. The city maintains these trails throughout the winter.
Why locals love it:
- Groomed daily following snow
- Beautiful river scenery
- Reliable snowpack in colder stretches
Status: Trails officially open during the ski season; grooming begins with sufficient snow.
7. Frozen Waterfalls at Congdon & Tischer Creek
You don’t have to leave Duluth to see spectacular frozen waterfalls. Congdon Park and Tischer Creek freeze into dramatic ice formations each winter, framed by snowy bridges and narrow ravines.
Expect to see:
- Frozen cascades
- Snow-dusted bridges
- Peaceful forested paths
Status: Parks are open year-round; waterfall freezing varies by temperature.
Ready to Experience Duluth’s Winter Magic?
Most winter attractions are open or preparing for full operation as the 2025–26 season approaches. From ski hills and sledding runs to shoreline trails and frozen waterfalls, winter in Duluth is a season worth embracing.
Warm up after your adventures at a cozy Gitche Gumee cabin—close to the slopes, parks, and every snowy wonder on your list.
Book your winter escape and step into Duluth’s most magical season.
