You know the classic TLC song that goes “Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls,” right? We politely disagree. They obviously didn’t know about the stunning waterfalls of Cook County, Minnesota! If they had seen what a spectacular show the local rivers put on in the spring, they might have changed their tune…
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Go Dark! International Dark Sky Week returns April 13-20, 2026 and is an invitation to take meaningful action, raise awareness, and make a difference in your community. In 2023, the Cook County Board of Commissioners and The Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribal Council made official…
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Imagine a world where your kids are free to roam, explore and discover without the distractions of screens or the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nature in Cook County offers just that—wild spaces where curious kids can investigate their surroundings and thrive. From the rustling leaves of a…
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Enjoying "Mud Season" in Cook County: A Practical Guide to the Messy Middle! There’s a stretch of time in the spring when winter fades, but doesn’t fully leave. Snow lingers in the shady areas, trails soften, creeks awaken, and yes, things can turn a bit muddy. As a result, some folks around here…
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Canoeing is a sport that can be a little intimidating at first. There are rules about boats, PFD’s, and a lot of flak from experts on how to hold your paddle correctly. But once you know what you’re doing, paddling through the BWCAW can be one of the most memorable and influential experiences of…
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Every year, hundreds of thousands of acres of melting snow and ice finds its way into Lake Superior down beautiful North Shore streams and rivers, creating quite the show. This spring melt in Cook County typically lasts about three weeks, beginning early to mid-April. Photo by David Johnson A…
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Winter is full of magical experiences and snowshoeing in Cook County is one of the most incredible ways to explore our dramatic landscape. Our favorite time to get out on the trails is early in the morning after an overnight snowfall, just as the sun rises above the horizon. The utter silence you’ll…
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Cook County, Minnesota is your ultimate destination for Minnesota winter activities. There’s simply no better place to embark on a winter adventure. Things are quieter up here in winter, which means it’s the perfect time to explore. You’ll feel like you have the trails to yourself – which is an…
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For many, seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s a chance to experience the mystical, feel connected with something almost otherworldly and experience natural beauty at its utmost perfection. There is simply no comparison to seeing the northern lights with your own…
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Cook County offers a wide variety of options for quick, 30 minute climbs. 30 minutes meaning 15 minutes up, 5 minutes to enjoy the view and 10 minutes down. These hikes are perfect for in between meals, on your way to another destination, or just to get your exercise in for the day. Britton Peak -…
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