The Brainerd Lakes Area, located right in the heart of central Minnesota, is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts—yes, even in the winter months! There are so many winter activities in Brainerd to take advantage of and a weekend in the area will be all things adventurous and fun.
The lakes might be frozen over—but that just means Brainerd becomes a winter playground!
How Far is Brainerd from Minneapolis-St. Paul?
Brainerd is 126 miles and just over two hours from the Twin Cities. Make your way on I-94/US-10 and you’ll be there in no time! People flock to this area for a winter getaway that’s far enough away while still close enough to home.
Winter Activities in Brainerd: Things to Do
Here are the top recommendations for winter activities in Brainerd. It’s tough to go wrong!
Downhill Skiing in Brainerd
If you are ready to hit the slopes, make your way to Mount Ski Gull, one of the best ski hills in Minnesota. Located in Nisswa, Mount Ski Gull is a short drive from Brainerd and one of the most fun things to do in the area! It’s a great place to enjoy the winter season whether you are downhill skiing. snowboarding, or hitting the tubing lanes—which are the highest in Minnesota!
Lift tickets are $40 for adults and $26 for Kids; rentals are $30 for adults and $23 for Kids—with discounted rates on weekdays, nights, seniors, and toddlers. Tubing is $21 for a 2-hour pass.
Read: Where to Downhill Ski in Minnesota For Even more hills
Cross Country Skiing in Brainerd
Keep the skiis but skip the slopes! There are a variety of cross country ski trails in the Brainerd area and it’s a great way to exercise outdoors and take in all of that fresh air! Find trails for cross-country skiing at these places:
- Northland Arboretum: 20+ miles of scenic trails; great for beginner to moderate. About 3 miles do have lights making it your best bet for nighttime skiing. This is a top-rated option!
- French Rapids Ski Trail: Wonderful views of the Mississippi River! This one is a bit more advanced.
- Crow Wing State Park: Snoeshoe anywhere in the park. Note there are no rentals.
A Minnesota ski pass is required and costs $10/day. You can also choose a one-year pass for $25.
READ: Cross Country Ski Trails in the Twin Cities
Snowmobile in Brainerd
If you are looking for a snowmobiling destination, look no further! The beautiful snowmobile trails make Brainerd a popular destination. There are over 1,200 miles of groomed trails that meander through lakes and forests. You can even find yourself on lighted snowmobile trails and go well into the night!
One of the best things about snowmobiling in the Brainerd area is that you will find plenty of places to warm up and grab food and a beer. Grab maps online or at any gas station in the area. Don’t forget: a permit is required for state trails. Order online.
Ice Skate in Brainerd
When is the last time you went ice skating? Find a frozen lake or a city park and lace them up! A few convenient locations in Brainerd:
Ice Fishing in Brainerd
You only have 460 lakes and rivers to choose from! (Yes, you read that right.) Take advantage of an area full of Trout, Walleye, Northern Pike, Panfish, and Bass.
Winter Festivals in Brainerd
Celebrate winter in Brainerd! They embraces the cold here and have fun doing it! Here are a few events to lock into your schedule:
$150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza
The Ice Fishing Extravaganza in Brainerd is the WORLD’S largest (charitable) ice fishing contest! It is held on Gull Lake, tickets are purchased in advance ($30), and you can win amazing prizes that include cash, four-wheelers, fishing equipment, and a lot more!
Breezy Point Ice Fest
A popular, unique event where you are going to find never-ending winter activities in Brainerd! Visit Ice Fest for pond hockey, trolley rides, snow golf, ice fishing, and even fireworks over the lake to bring the community together and celebrate!
Gull Lake Frozen Fore
The best three days of the year for some! Snowmobile (or shuttle) between 10 different resorts and restaurants on Gull Lake and participate in different activities, games, and challenges. The Gull Lake Frozen Fore also includes ice bars and live music, plus cook-offs and heated tents. Don’t miss this one!
Indoor Water Parks in Brainerd
Need a little taste of summer? I don’t blame you! And you’re in luck because Brainerd holds some of Minnesota’s best indoor water parks! Slides, lazy rivers, hot tubs, splash pools, and of course, arcades and snack bars, keep both the kids and parents happy.
- Paul Bunyan Water Park: Located in Arrowhead Brainerd Lodge.
- Three Bear Water Park: Located in the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Baxter, Minnesota.
- Rapid River Lodge: Located in the Comfort Suites in Baxter, Minnesota.
Eat & Drink in Brainerd
We’ve been through a ton of winter activities in Brainerd, but we can’t forget food and drinks! There are so many places to check out for a good meal.
- The Local 218: Good food in a modern envirornment. I recommend the wings!
- Rafferty’s: There are a few different locations, and they all serve great pizzas!
- Stonehouse Coffee: If you need a quick cup of coffee, this is your spot. As a top-rated coffee shop in Minnesota, it won’t let you know.
Get The Full List: Where to Eat and drink Near Brainerd, Minnesota
Brainerd Resorts
The Brainerd Lakes Area is known to some as “Vacationland.” Why? Because there are so many family-oriented resorts that include amazing views, relaxing spas, and a chance to take a break! A few of the top spots:
- Grand View Lodge: Book a cozy cabin in the perfect place that’s surrounded by trees and water. An amazing escape—with a TON of amenities including Glacial Waters Spa!
- Cragun’s Resort: Grab a room with a Gull Lake view! Located on a golf course, this spot was named a Top 10 Resort in Midwest Living!
- Arrowhead Lodge: Mentioned above in the water park section, Arrowhead Lodge doesn’t stop there. Book a cabin, lodge room, or RV space and you won’t regret it.
Minnesota Winter Activities in Brainerd
If you are looking to embrace winter like a true Minnesotan, Brainerd is the place to be! Plan a trip to the ski hill, hop on the Paul Bunyan State Trail, or just spend time eating at great restaurants! This is a perfect winter vacation destination with so many recreational activities to choose from.
