Brainerd Lakes: A Lively Winter Playground

Written by Lisa Meyers McClintick. Photographs by John Noltner

When winter's chill settles into Minnesota's Brainerd Lakes area, only the water comes to a standstill. This summertime destination stays hot after the weather turns cold.

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Best in snow

With 50 inches of annual snowfall and hundreds of lakes -- along with a location only 130 miles northwest of Minneapolis, the Brainerd Lakes area is one of the Midwest's liveliest playgrounds. Whether you're getting an outdoor workout or pampering yourself in an upscale cabin, the area has lots to offer winter travelers.