winter

Downhill skiing and snowboarding

The Lutsen-Tofte area is home to Lutsen Mountains, the biggest and best ski resort in the Midwest, bar none. Located just eight miles from Surfside on Lake Superior, Lusten Mountains offers the highest mountains, the most snowfall, and of course the breathtaking beautiful North Shore. Lutsen has 92 alpine runs sweeping across four interconnected mountains, making it nearly three to four times larger than any other Midwest Ski area. They also offer starter packages and ski lessons for kids and adults.

Surfside on Lake Superior is the perfect home base for your skiing and snowboarding venture. We offer winter lodging specials, including Ski & Stay Packages, as well as complimentary shuttles to and from the ski hill. Experience the convenience of slope-side lodging while enjoying our unmatched waterfront location and breathtaking views. Want to avoid the rental rush at the mountain? Sawtooth Outfitters, just half a mile from Surfside, offers full downhill skiing and snowboarding outfitting.

Cross country skiing

Spectacular scenery, varied terrain, and abundant snow add up to some of the best cross-country skiing in the country. Trails in the immediate Lutsen-Tofte area total more than 150km and are groomed with the best available equipment. Nearly ¾ of the trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. And Cook County, which includes the North Shore Ski Trails, is home to more than 400km of spectacular trails.

The Sugarbush Trail system system offers something for everyone from beginner to expert. Surfside’s sister resort, Bluefin Bay, offers full cross country outfitting for all ages as a complimentary service to Surfside guests. Have your own skis? Stop by Bluefin’s recreation center and take advantage of our waxing station. New to cross country skiing? Join our expert activities staff for a guided ski lesson.

Current trail report
Sugarbush Trail Map

Snowshoeing

The Surfside area offers spectacular snowshoeing trails, including nearly all of the Superior Hiking Trail open for winter use. Snowshoeing is a great opportunity to get out into the tranquil north woods during the winter. Surfside offers guests complementary lightweight, aluminum snowshoes for all ages. Our guest services staff can recommend one of many trails just a short distance from the resort. Guided tours are available several times each week. Favorite snowshoe trails include Carlton Peak, Oberg Mountain, Leveaux Mountain, Temperance River, and Cascade River.

Ice skating

Surfside guests are invited to use the outdoor ice rink at our sister resort, Bluefin Bay, located less than one mile away. The ice rink is open all day and is lit at night until 11pm. Hockey and figure skates are available in all sizes as a complimentary service to our guests and can be picked up at the Bluefin Bay Guest Services. Broomball and hockey equipment are also available. After your skate, warm up next to the campfire and refuel with complimentary s’mores.

Snowmobiling

Gas up your sled. The Lutsen-Tofte Snowmobile Trail System offers 67 miles of groomed trails that connect with the 146 mile-long North Shore State Snowmobile Trail, allowing for an endless combination of routes for everything from a one hour to full-day ride.

Area snowmobile trails offer a great opportunity to ride the mountains, valleys, and lakes of the north woods. Rent snowmobiles or book a guided snowmobile tour and observe rivers with waterfalls, inland views, abundant wildlife and panoramic views of Lake Superior.

Trail conditions

Dog sledding

If you haven’t been, dog sledding through the backcountry with some of the best dog mushers in North America is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Dog sledding is one of the most fun and unique winter activities the North Shore has to offer. Dog sledding excursions are available just a few miles from Surfside and are sure to provide lasting memories. For more information and reservations, contact the Lutsen-Tofte Tourism Association at 1-888-61NORTH or Stoney Creek Kennel. Our Guest Services staff can assist you in booking the ride of a lifetime.

Sleigh rides

Experience the peaceful beauty of the north woods on a classic horse-drawn sleigh ride with Belgians Jack and Julie. Snuggle up in a blanket and gaze up at the stars as you are pulled through the tranquil north woods. How fun? And romantic! For more information, contact the Lutsen-Tofte Tourism Association at 888-616-6784 or ask Guest Services to assist you.

Kid's activities

Guests of Surfside on Lake Superior can enjoy our complimentary kid’s activities provided at our sister resort, Bluefin Bay, less than one mile from the resort. Whether you’re in search of some time away from the kids or choose to participate in the crafts right alongside them, our kid’s activities program deliver excitement and entertainment for your children during any season.

Campfire and s’mores

Surfside has a campfire area with a large fire ring and plenty of seating for the whole crew. The campfire area is located on the parking lot side of units 11-14. Stop by Guest Services to pick up complimentary s’mores packets and enjoy!

Start the campfire on your own or call Guest Services to have it lit for you. Surfside guests are also invited to attend the lakeside campfire and s’mores with live music on Saturday nights at our sister resort, Bluefin Bay.

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