In many states, a blanket of snow shuts everything down. But in Minnesota, it only adds a new layer of fun and adventure. In every corner of the Land of 10,000 Lakes, winter brings fun activities and beautiful landscapes. In northern Minnesota, Ely is one of the most beautiful places you can imagine. Most people know it for the breathtaking, million-acre Boundary Waters. But there’s a small state park in Ely that is well worth visiting, especially in the winter. Under a blanket of snow, this Bear Head Lake State Park is a cant-miss winter oasis, full of quiet beauty. Here’s what you’ll find when you visit.

Bear Head Lake State Park is a beautiful 4,300-acre state park in Ely, Minnesota. Because of its proximity to the Boundary Waters, it is often overlooked by visitors to the area. But Bear Head Lake is well worth checking out!
Michael Johnson/Google
In the summertime, the park's most popular activities are boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. While most of those are not possible in the winter, the park's four lakes are full of beautiful, snowy scenery.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The entire park is open to snowshoeing throughout the winter. There are also nine miles of cross-country ski trails. There are no better ways to enjoy the outdoors during the winter.
Joe Elliott/Google

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As you traverse the park, you'll pass under the boughs of snow-covered trees. The forest Bear Head Lake is mixed, with red and white pines, spruce, birch, and cedar.
Erik Carlson/AllTrails
The trees are home to several kinds of birds that winter here, including species of chickadees, jays, grosbeaks, and woodpeckers. If you're lucky, you may spot one of these hardy birds.
Daniel Johnson/Google
More likely, you'll encounter few animals or humans. That is the beauty of this park in winter. With snow deafening the park's usual sounds, you'll be left with unusual silence.
Trevor Olerich/AllTrails
The peace and quiet of the snow-covered Bear Head Lake State Park is not to be missed. If you get a chance to visit this winter, you will love the serene landscape of this Minnesota winter oasis!
Brett Whaley/Flickr

Have you ever visited Bear Head Lake State Park in the winter? What did you think? For other wonderful places to visit when the snow flies, check out our past articles about a snowy hike at Flandrau State Park and the peace and quiet of Itasca State Park in winter.

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Bear Head Lake State Park, Bear Head State Park Road, Ely, MN, USA