There are so many wonderful al fresco things to do in the Land of 10,000 Lakes all year long. And because Minnesotans are a hardy bunch, they rarely let bad weather stop them from having a good time. Nevertheless, there are a few activities that can only be done in winter. Among them is to see the Hegman Lake pictographs. Why? Because they are located across a frozen lake. When you embark upon this beautiful hike, you’ll come face-to-face with these 500-year-old pictographs ensconced on a northern Minnesota cliff. Here’s all you need to know about taking this unique winter journey:

North Hegman Lake is a beautiful northern Minnesota lake located approximately 15 miles north of the town of Ely.
Jay Wilson/Flickr
It's a popular place to visit in the summertime, when canoeing is possible, thanks to the 500-year-old pictographs that line one of the lake's cliffs.
But for those who don't have canoes - or who simply don't enjoy paddling - there might be an easier way to cross the lake.
Audubon Center of the North Woods/Flickr
And that would be to visit in winter when North Hegman Lake is frozen, offering a peaceful and serene hike across the water.
Along the way, you'll see waterfront cliffs covered in ice and snow.
Chad Fennell/Flickr
It's much different from the lush landscape that makes up the lake, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in the state, in the warmer months.

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While it is beautiful, this hike is not for the faint of heart.
Nils Dybvig/Flickr
You'll need sturdy boots - or better yet, snowshoes or cross-country skis - to take the journey safely. If you already ski in Minnesota, you'll be all set!
If you're all bundled up and have the right equipment, this trip is a dream!
Nils Dybvig/Flickr
It'll take about a half day to make it to your final destination and back. As far as winter hikes in Minnesota, this one is definitely among the best.
When you reach the pictographs, you'll know your trip was worth it. Carefully drawn onto the cliff face in bright red pigment is a pictograph scene thought to be at least 500 years old.
Chad Fennell/Flickr
The pictograph depicts a human, a moose, and what appears to be a set of canoes surrounding them. It's a fascinating glimpse into the people who first lived in Minnesota so long ago.

Have you heard of the Hegman Lake pictographs? Would you ever trek across a frozen lake to see them? If you’ve embarked upon this amazing hike, please share your photos and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Interested in other winter activities to enjoy in Minnesota? Check out these 8 awesome spots!

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