SeasOnal Highlights

NATURE HAS NO OFF SEASON

When you look around Cook County and take in its vast and unique beauty, it’s easy to see that there is no ‘off season.’ From waterfalls to snowfalls and everything in between, Mother Nature doesn’t take a day off here.

Every spring, Cook County awakens. It’s an absolutely spectacular season full of new life, changing landscapes and fresh opportunities to get outdoors and explore every corner of the region. Between the countless pop-up waterfalls that appear as the snow melts, stunning wildflower blooms and adorable baby animal sightings, spring is a unique and fun time to plan an adventure.

To Do This Spring

Experience waterfall season

Catch the early season walleye bite or steelhead run

Watch the spring bird migration

Participate in the Le Grand Du Nord Gravel Cycling Classic

When the leaves begin to change color and the temperature drops, the pace in Cook County slows down. It’s a time for long colorful drives or quiet, peaceful treks through the Superior National Forest followed by a stop at a local brewery. Whether you’re hiking or biking, you might feel like you have the trails all to yourself. And just when you think it’s all calm and tranquil, the Gales of November usher in our tumultuous Storm Season.

TO DO THIS FAll

Take a famous fall color drive

Marvel at the power of Storm Season

Golf at Superior National Golf Course or Gunflint Hills

Catch live music at a local venue

Peruse the Art Along the Lake Fall Studio Tour

Try something new, rent a pair of cross country skis.

It’s bright, green and cool all summer long, making the region the perfect training ground for athletes of all abilities.

Hike, bike and paddle the long summer days away in Cook County. The opportunities for adventure during summer are limitless.

TO DO THIS Summer

Plan a Boundary Waters trip

Attend a summer festival

Summit the tallest peaks in the state

Camp at state or National Forest lands

Wander the locally owned shops to find hidden gems

From downhill skiing and snowboarding at Lutsen Mountains and cross country skiing along 400 km of groomed trails to long sauna sessions and embracing the hygge mindset, there’s so much to love about winter in Cook County. With an average of 120” of snow each year, we make the most of it by getting outside to exercise, experience and play all season long.

TO DO THIS Winter

Fall in love with fat tire biking

Cross country ski or snowshoe in the Superior National Forest Stargaze under one of the nation’s darkest skies

Ride over 400 miles of snowmobile trails

Embrace cozy culture at the annual Hygge Festival