Celebrate the peak of winter on the edge of the wilderness. Join us for a weekend-long winter celebration filled with outdoor adventure, naturalist-led experiences, cozy fireside gatherings, and the inaugural Saturday night Snowball Dance in the Northern Lights Lounge. Whether you’re building a custom boxcar sled to race for glory, tracking wildlife through the Boreal forest, or searching for constellations on a guided night hike, there is no better way to embrace the final stretch of winter. Experience the thrill of skating the longest wild ice trail in the country along the Canadian Border, then warm up with a signature cocktail in front of a roaring fire. The Snowball is our favorite way to celebrate the final stretch of winter on Gunflint Lake.
Why Stay at Gunflint Lodge for the Snowball?
Gunflint Lodge serves as the exclusive hub for all Snowball weekend activities, offering a seamless blend of Northwoods adventure and lodge comfort. When you stay with us, you are steps away from guided hikes, winter games, and all of the weekend’s signature events, including the Snowball dance. Our guests enjoy the best of both worlds: easy access to the action throughout the day and a warm, welcoming sanctuary by night. With complimentary skating and skiing included in your stay, plus front-row seats to our food and drink specials, lodging at the heart of the event ensures you won’t miss a single moment of the celebration
Snowball Weekend Schedule at Gunflint Lodge
Thursday, March 19
Complementary Winter Activities: Our groomed cross-country trails and wild ice skating loop are ready for you to enjoy the moment you arrive on the property.
Northern Lights Lounge: Join us for Happy Hour and a special Welcome Cocktail to kick off the weekend festivities.
Friday, March 20
Explore and discover with our Naturalist Activities
- 10:00 AM – Presentation: BWCA Game Fish
- 12:00 PM – Boxcar Sled Building: Construction begins! Get your boxcar sled ready for Saturday’s race
- 2:00 PM – Presentation: Moose
- 7:00 PM – Night hike and Dark Sky Telescope Viewing: Peer through our telescopes at the vast Minnesota sky
Saturday, March 21
Games, Races, and Activities
- Ice Fishing Derby
- Boreal Bingo
- Build a Boxcar Sled and Race it: Finalize your Boxcar Sled and compete in the Great Race
- Guided Hike: Animal Track Identification
- Ice Bocce
Ice Bar and Grill
- Draft beer and Fireball specials
- Outdoor grilled items
- Fire on the beach
The Snowball – Northern Lights Lounge (8:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
- Enjoy live music, our signature Snowball cocktail, and a late-night food menu all in the Northern Lights Lounge.
Sunday, March 22
Sunrise Hike and Breakfast
- 7:00 AM – Sunrise Hike: A peaceful final trek to watch the sun rise over Gunflint Lake
- 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Breakfast at Justine’s: Farewell breakfast at Justine’s
Weekend-Long Activities
• Complimentary ice skating (10:00 AM–4:00 PM Daily)
• Complimentary cross-country skiing (10:00 AM–4:00 PM Daily)
• Boreal Scavenger Hunt: Explore the grounds for hidden treasures
• Snowman Building Contest: Let your creativity run wild in the snow
Dining Options
- Breakfast: 8:00–10:30 AM
- Lunch: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Dinner: 5:00–8:00 PM
- Open daily from 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM for drinks and casual fare.
Plan Your Snowball Stay
Snowball Weekend is best experienced when you stay right at the heart of the action. Lodging at Gunflint Lodge puts you steps away from activities, dining, fireside gatherings, and the Snowball Dance.
Availability is limited for this inaugural event. We recommend reserving your cabin or lodge room early to ensure your place at the party.