No matter how you like to spend your winter in the Land of 10,000 Lakes – bombing down the slopes, schussing through deep woods silence, or cozied up with a hot tub and fireplace (or all of the above!) – you’ll find that the tiny North Shore community of Tofte has what you’re looking for. And that’s why it’s one winter destination in Minnesota that we return to year after year.

Tofte is a small town on the North Shore of Lake Superior, about 80 miles northeast of Duluth.
Management/TripAdvisor
The town is a destination for adventurers and a jumping off point for the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. You'll also find a handful of cozy resorts in the area, like the Bluefin Bay family of properties.
As gorgeous as Tofte is during the warmer months, it really sparkles when winter rolls around - especially if you love being outside.
Sugarbush Trail Association/Facebook
For Nordic enthusiasts, the Sugarbush Trail Association grooms and maintains 65 kilometers of cross-country ski trails through the Superior National Forest outside Tofte.
But if you prefer snowshoeing or winter hiking, you'll find no lack of options in the Tofte area - along the Lake Superior shoreline or on the high bluffs of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Collin Mculty/Google Reviews

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You could also go chasing frozen waterfalls on nearby rivers.
Cody Hou/Google Reviews
Temperance River State Park and one of our favorite short waterfall hikes along the Onion River are just minutes away from Tofte. You could even snowshoe between them on the Superior Hiking Trail.
Need more of an adrenaline rush in your day? Not to worry!
Lutsen Mountains/Facebook
Lutsen Mountains, the largest ski resort in the Upper Midwest, is a 10-minute drive from Tofte.
And when you're ready to relax, head back to your room, kick back with a fire or in the hot tub, or just a good book, and enjoy the North Shore views.
Bluefin Bay/Facebook

Tofte is hands-down one of my favorite winter destinations in Minnesota. It can be busy on winter weekends, so when you’re looking for accommodations, book well in advance or consider a midweek stay to get the trails and slopes to yourself!

Have you visited Tofte in the winter? Let us know what you thought and be sure to share your own favorite winter destinations in the Bold North.

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