Winter Adventures Await on Minnesota’s Iron Range

Discover Snowy Fun at Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm

Winter on Minnesota’s Iron Range is all about getting outside, embracing the snow, and finding ways to have fun together. And this season, Minnesota Discovery Center (MDC) in Chisholm, MN is making it easier than ever. Kicking off Friday, December 19, MDC invites families, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors from across the Iron Range to experience groomed trails, night hikes, sledding hills, and cozy winter gatherings, all in one unforgettable destination.

Located just minutes from Chisholm, Hibbing and Mountain Iron, and only 30 minutes from Giants Ridge Ski Resort in Biwabik, Minnesota Discovery Center is the perfect addition to any Iron Range winter itinerary.

👉 Learn more about the museum and grounds at the official site:
https://www.mndiscoverycenter.org

Hit the Trails at Heritage Park

Winter recreation at Minnesota Discovery Center centers around its beautiful Heritage Park, home to a looped 5K groomed trail system designed for every skill level.

• Beginner, intermediate, and advanced loops

• Ideal for snowshoeing and kicksledding

• Scenic views that showcase the natural beauty of the Iron Range in winter

Trail maps are available at admissions, and rentals make it easy for the whole family to join in. No equipment required.

Night Adventures Under the Stars 🌙

Looking for something truly unique? On Thursdays, Minnesota Discovery Center stays open late until 8:00 PM, giving visitors the chance to experience winter trails after dark.

• Grab a headlamp

• Enjoy a peaceful night hike or kicksled adventure

• Take in the quiet beauty of a starlit Iron Range evening

👉 Bonus: FREE admission every Thursday from 4:00–8:00 PM

Note: For safety reasons, downhill sledding is not available during late hours due to limited lighting.

Sled Into Fun at Discovery Hills

New this winter, MDC introduces Discovery Hills Sled Park, a family-friendly sledding area built on the iconic hills leading down to the outdoor music amphitheater.

• Bring your own sled or borrow one on site

• Smooth, snow-covered hills perfect for all ages

• A classic Iron Range winter experience

Downhill sleds are free with general admission, and MDC members always receive free admission.

Winter Hours & Admission Details

Winter recreation begins Friday, December 19

🕒 Hours

• Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Thursdays: Open until 8:00 PM

🎟️ Admission & Rentals

• Kicksleds & Snowshoes: $3 (free if you bring your own) + general admission

• Downhill Sleds: Free with general admission

• Off-Site Snowshoe Rentals (24-hour): $15 (no admission required)

• MDC Members: Always free admission

Warm Up & Refuel 🍲

After time on the trails or hills, step inside and warm up. On Fridays and Saturdays, the MDC Dining Room transforms into a cozy warming house from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, serving hot food and drinks — perfect for recharging between winter adventures.

A Perfect Stop on Your Iron Range Winter Getaway

Minnesota Discovery Center’s winter activities fit seamlessly into a broader Iron Range experience. Spend the morning sledding or snowshoeing in Chisholm, explore nearby Hibbing or Mountain Iron, then head east for downhill skiing, tubing, or Nordic trails at Giants Ridge Recreation Area.

👉 Plan a ski day at Giants Ridge:
https://www.giantsridge.com

This winter, make sure to include hiking under the stars, cruising groomed trails, or racing down snowy hills at Minnesota Discovery Center in your plan. It’s the perfect place to celebrate winter, connect with the outdoors, and make lasting memories in the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range.