Itasca State Park Offering Winter Lodging at Reduced Rates

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling opportunities will be right outside the door when people reserve a winter getaway — at a reduced rate — at Itasca State Park in Park Rapids. The Douglas Lodge six-plex (Itasca Suites) is located within the park and priced at an off-peak rate of $105 per night (regularly $150), Jan. 1 through May 22.

Each suite has a bathroom with a shower and tub; log furniture complete with bedding and linens; a kitchenette with pots and pans, a microwave, a refrigerator, a dishwasher; and amenities such as TV, internet access and a phone, according to a news release.

Most of the suites accommodate four adults or a family of up to six, and adjacent units can connect through an interior door. Two units are fully accessible, including the showers, and sleep two. Interior and exterior photos can be viewed online on the Douglas Lodge suites and rooms page.

Established in 1891, Itasca State Park is Minnesota’s oldest state park and one of its busiest. More than half a million people visit the park annually, and more than 110,000 of them stay overnight. Year-round attractions include the headwaters of the Mississippi River, the towering pines of Preacher’s Grove and a scenic Wilderness Drive.

Interpretive nature programs are offered year-round as well. Winter recreation opportunities include 13 miles of cross-country ski trails (including classic and skate skiing) and more than 30 miles of snowmobile trails, along with ice fishing and snowshoeing. Snowshoe rental is available for $6 per day.

For reservations, visit the state parks reservations website or call (866) 857-2757. For a list of upcoming programs and special events or to take a virtual tour of the park online, visit the Itasca State Park page.

Image via USFWSmidwest, Flickr, used under Creative Commons