With our recent stretch of below freezing temperatures, there is no denying that the snow will soon be upon us.. Nothing compares to the chill in the air, the sound of snow crunching under heel, and a cup of steaming hot cider after coming in from a long day outside. And for a guy who finds winter time to be the right time for fun and adventure, I couldn’t have picked a better place to move to than Minnesota.When the temperature dips below freezing and the powder hits the ground, Minnesota comes alive with activities and events celebrating the joys that only winter can bring. Some of them a little more unusual than others. So if you are looking for some truly unique winter fun, strap on your caps and fill up your thermos as I list 5 of Minnesota’s more unique upcoming winter attractions.
Icefest
Location: Breezy Bay at Breezy Point Resort
Date: January 5-6, 2007
Why is it unique?
Sounds like another local winter festival, right? You couldn’t be further from the truth. Gear heads will want to be here for this event. Breezy Point Ice Fest is the home of the World Championship Ice Auger Contest. This festival pits contestants and their highly modified ice augers against each other to see who can punch through the ice the fastest. There is also a muscle power division for “old schoolers” out there. The non-mechanically inclined can enjoy other activities including human bowling, snow-golf, snowmobile racing, and a fireworks spectacular.
World Snowmobile Association’s Snocross Race
Location: Brainerd International Raceway
Date: Jan. 6-7, 2007
Why is it unique?
What’s better than getting on your own snowmobile and whipping down one of Minnesota’s many trails? How about watching professional racers whip around an obstacle filled course for money and prizes. This event, sponsored by the World Power Sports Association, has delighted many over the years. Races start at 9 a.m in the morning. So get there early and watch some of the best racers in the world shred some powder.
$150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza
Location: Hole in the Day Bay of Gull Lake
Date: Jan. 20, 2007
Why is it unique?
This 16 year old ice fishing tournament offers the largest prize package in the sport. In 2006, more than 11,000 anglers took to the ice, each vying for a piece of the prize pool ranging from gift certificates, cash, ice fishing equipment and even new cars. This year’s event, themed “Ice Fishing Heaven in 2007” promises to be just as exciting. Any size and species of fish is eligible with large prizes placed randomly among the top 150 places. First place will take home a new Ford Truck, 100th place earns $10,000 cash and 150th place rides away on a Suzuki Vinson 500 ATV.
Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous
Location: Trailside Park, Pequot Lakes
Date: Jan. 26-28, 2007
Why is it unique?
Speed might not be the order of the day here, but if you’re a fan of snowmobiles or motor sports history, you’re in for a treat. Snowmobiles built through 1966 will be featured in various different events including drag, oval, reverse oval and obstacle rallies. Now ’66 may seem to be a little too young to be considered an antique, but compared to their high powered cousins, you’ll see just how far the technology and the racing has progressed. Other events include a vintage snowmobile show, trail rides, and a parade.
Mush with Dogs, Howl with Wolves
Location: International Wolf Center in Ely
Dates: Last weekend of Dec. and subsequent weekends through March
Why is it unique?
This is as close to the Jack London experience as anyone can get. The International Wolf Center sponsors adult learning trips into the Superior National Forest to study the native wolf population. Participants enjoy an immersive experience as they “explore the world of the wolf” as they track radio-collared wolves and travel through wolf country behind their own team of high-powered sled dogs, or on snow shoes through the Superior National Forest. You might even get to talk with these majestic creatures as guides teach you how to howl like wolves.
Al Josef is the editor of LakeshoreDreams.com
