Details:
Hey Iron Range — winter just got a whole lot more exciting at the Minnesota Discovery Center! Get ready for outdoor adventures, family fun, and snowy thrills — all kicking off on Friday, December 19th! Hit the Trails: Explore our looped 5K groomed trail system in Heritage Park, with beginner, intermediate, and advanced loops. Rent a kicksled or snowshoes for the whole family and enjoy a scenic winter adventure. Trail maps will be ready for you at admissions. Night Adventures: On Thursdays, we’re open late until 8pm! Grab a headlamp and experience our trails under the stars for an unforgettable night hike. Sled Into Fun: Check out our brand-new Discovery Hills Sled Park! Bring your own sled or borrow one of ours and cruise down the iconic hills leading to the music amphitheater — freshly snow-covered and ready for fun! Winter Hours & Access: Winter recreation kicks off on Friday, December 19th! Tuesday–Saturday: 10am–5pm Thursdays: Open late until 8pm - snowshoeing and kicksledding allowed, but not downhill sledding due to lack of enough lighting. FREE admission on Thursdays from 4pm–8pm Rental & Admission Info Kicksleds & Snowshoes: $3 (free if you bring your own) + general admission (MDC members never pay admission) Downhill Sleds: Free with general admission (MDC members always get in free) Off-Site Snowshoes (24-hour rental): $15 (no admission required for off-site rentals) Warm Up & Refuel: On Fridays and Saturdays, our MDC Dining Room transforms into a cozy warming house with hot food and drinks from 11am–4pm. Perfect for a break between outdoor adventures! Whether you’re gliding along trails, racing down hills, or hiking under the stars, MDC is the perfect place to embrace winter outdoors, make memories, and enjoy the beauty of the Iron Range in the snow.
