Dancing with La Niña
La Niña has been kind to the Northern Wilds this winter--perhaps too kind. Winter temperatures have been well above normal, while snowfalls are far below the norm. In mid-January, the annual Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon was canceled due to lack of snow at its Duluth starting point.
Mushers aren’t the only ones feeling the pain of a snowless winter. Many snowmobile trails are in rough shape, if open at all. Downhill ski operations are relying on manmade snow. You can find some groomed cross-country ski trails, though some ski events have been rescheduled.
But La Niña hasn’t been all bad news. Much of the Northern Wilds has enough snow to enjoy winter activities. Cross-country skiers are flocking to the Gunflint Trail, where more than a foot of snow blankets the forest. Ice anglers are enjoying warm days, easy travel conditions and better-than-average fishing for all species. Backcountry hikers are enjoying the opportunity to explore places on and off hiking trails.
Winter--real winter, that is--can only get better. We’ve made it through January, which is typically the coldest month of the year. There’s more sunshine now and the days are getting longer, inviting us to spend time outside. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that more snow is coming, too.
In this issue, you’ll find information about a ton of things to do, from organized events like the Ely Winter Festival, Cook County Winter Tracks and Thunder Bay’s Sleeping Giant Loppet to do-it-yourself adventures like ice climbing in Nipigon or taking your children skiing. This is a great time to try winter camping. You’ll find a complete guide to get you started. We even have some tips on winter outdoor cookery from Gord Ellis, our resident chef and jackpine savage.
Take a cue from our cover couple, Gaby Würth and Werner Bahner of Freiburg, Germany, who are shown kicked back and enjoying the sunshine at Golden Eagle Lodge on the Gunflint Trail. Get outside. Have fun. And enjoy this wonderful La Niña winter.
