Getting creative 

During The Lost Winter of 2023-24, as the Minnesota DNR refers to it, some local businesses got creative in order to make up for the lack of snow. Hungry Jack Lodge, located along the Gunflint Trail, made state-wide news for plowing a skating track around the lake. There may not have been much snow, but people from all over were able to participate in at least one winter activity, something many were craving. Others were able to get creative in their own ways as well. "Last winter was a tough one for everyone, but overall, I think we faired pretty well. We were able to get creative with keeping the Central Gunflint open by grooming lakes and hauling snow, and a lot of people came up to hike, trail run, and bike," Ruth Wagner from Golden Eagle Lodge told Boreal Community Media.

However, even with new and unique ventures, overall, visits and recreation in the area were way down and many businesses took a hit. Gunflint Lodge owner John Fredrikson told Boreal Community Media: "Last winter was hard for the businesses on the Gunflint Trail. Bookings were way down, and there weren't many activities we could offer our guests."

This year, many businesses and organizations have been busy maintaining trails as much as they can, as well as continuing to be creative with what they can offer. "Sometimes I feel that weird snow years open up an even wider array of things to do. When ski trails are at their finest, you ski every day and sometimes forget some of the other unique forms of winter fun you can have," Wagner said. 

 Ice skating path along Gunflint Lake. Photo: Gunflint Lodge Facebook Page

For the first time, Gunflint Lodge has created its own ice skating trail along the lake, something the Fredriksons had been hoping to do since 2020. "We bought the equipment and skates to rent out in late 2020 but have only been able to roll it out this year," he shared, " as "ice conditions can be difficult on Gunflint." At the start of the season, however, the lake froze with a layer of snow on top. The stretch of warm temperatures helped in this situation, melting the surface and adding a nice, smooth glaze. 

The Lodge has been working to maintain the ice skating trails and hopes to continue to do so, especially as more snow and wind arrive. The best place to see the most up-to-date conditions is through its website or Facebook page. "The skating trails are open to everyone. We just ask folks to stop in at the resorts on the lake and give them some business to help out in the slower season. We rent Nordic skates and boots at Gunflint Lodge, and of course, we have a restaurant to get some walleye chowder and a beer after your workout," he said. 

 Photo: Golden Eagle Lodge Facebook Page

Skiing Trails

The ice skating path isn't the only trail the Lodge is maintaining. Fredrikson explained that the Gunflint Lodge is part of the Upper Gunflint Trail Ski System, a privately maintained network shared with Gunflint Pines, another local resort. "These resorts have been working together since the 1980s on managing these trails,' he stated. The system encompasses approximately 70 kilometers of some of the "finest Nordic skiing terrain available," going through wooded landscapes along Gunflint Lake and offering views of Canada. While "best suited for intermediate to advanced skiers," Fredrikson noted that "plenty of terrain exists for beginners to explore."

Currently, the trails are being groomed with a new PistenBully 100. "It has been doing a much better job with the trails than our older groomer," Fredrikson stated. "The trails are in very good shape right now." Passes are required and are available at Gunflint Lodge (800-328-3325) or Gunflint Pines (800-533-5814).