As the new year begins, there’s something truly magical about the Lake Vermilion area in January. The air is crisp, the snow blankets the pines, and the night skies put on a show like nowhere else. If you’ve been looking for a reason to escape to northern Minnesota this winter, we have plenty of them—starting with one of the most spectacular celestial events of the season.
Ely Dark Sky Festival: January 10-11, 2025
Just 20 minutes from our doorstep, the town of Ely is hosting its Dark Sky Festival on January 10th and 11th. The Ely area is now an official Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it one of the best places in the Midwest to witness the wonders of the night sky—including the elusive northern lights.
This two-day celebration is packed with events for stargazers of all experience levels:
- Telescope Stargazing & Constellation Stories with the Arrowhead Astronomical Society at Pioneer Mine
- Painting the Aurora Class at Ely Folk School—create your own northern lights masterpiece
- Wolf Howling Safari in the Superior National Forest with the International Wolf Center
- Dark Sky Dogsledding at Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge—glide through the forest under a canopy of stars
- Winter Starbathing meditation on the Trezona Trail
- Daytime Solar Telescope viewing with sun-safe glasses
Many events are free, and the entire weekend celebrates the pristine darkness that makes our corner of Minnesota so special. There’s nothing quite like standing in the quiet of the northwoods, breath visible in the cold air, watching stars emerge by the thousands.
Embrace Winter Like a Local
January is prime time for winter adventures around Lake Vermilion. Here’s what’s waiting for you:
Dogsledding Capital of the World
Did you know Ely is home to more sled dog trip providers than anywhere else on Earth? Whether you want a quick introduction or a multi-day wilderness expedition, there’s an outfitter ready to introduce you to this quintessential northwoods experience. The huskies are eager, the trails are pristine, and the memories last a lifetime.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Miles of groomed trails wind through the Superior National Forest and local parks. Hidden Valley in Ely offers excellent skiing, and Bear Head Lake State Park (just minutes away) has snowshoe-friendly paths through peaceful winter woods.
Ice Fishing on Lake Vermilion
The lake is settling into solid ice, and anglers are already setting up fish houses. Lake Vermilion’s 40,000 acres offer exceptional walleye, northern pike, and panfish fishing. Local guides can set you up with everything you need, from equipment to the perfect spot.
International Wolf Center
Visit Ely’s world-renowned International Wolf Center to learn about these magnificent animals. Winter is a wonderful time to visit—the wolves are active, and the center offers special programs including the Wolf Howling Safari during Dark Sky Festival weekend.
Looking Ahead: Ely Winter Festival in February
If you can’t make it in January, mark your calendar for the Ely Winter Festival—10 days in February celebrating everything we love about this season. Watch professional artists transform massive snow blocks into breathtaking sculptures at the International Snow Sculpting Symposium. Stroll the ArtWalk, where downtown shops display over 400 works by local artists. Enjoy candlelit skiing, the Nordic Beard Festival, live music, and so much more.
Cozy Up at Vermilion Park Inn
After a day of winter adventures—whether you’ve been mushing through the forest, marveling at snow sculptures, or watching the stars wheel overhead—there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, welcoming place to rest.
Our historic inn in Soudan offers the perfect home base for your winter getaway. Wake up to a hearty homemade breakfast, warm up by the fire, and let us help you plan your next day’s adventures. We’re just minutes from Lake Vermilion, Tower, and the road to Ely.
Winter in the northwoods is an experience like no other. The quiet, the beauty, the dark skies full of stars—it stays with you long after you’ve headed home.
Ready to plan your winter escape? Book your stay at Vermilion Park Inn and discover the magic of January in Minnesota’s Arrowhead region. Rooms fill quickly during festival weekends, so don’t wait!
