Snowkiters in Finland
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As Minnesota drifts into the throes of deep winter, the world stands frozen, white, and still. But walk around Lake Calhoun and you’ll encounter a refreshing splash of color against the gray cold sky. Kites. Lots and lots of them.

You can catch the winter show almost every Saturday and Sunday afternoon on the frozen waters of Lake Calhoun. This unique winter sport is called snowkiting. Huge inflatable kites swoop and dip along the horizon as the experienced snowkiters streak across the lake at frightening speeds. Effortless and smooth they fly along the frozen landscape, powered only by the wind and their addiction to speed.

Snow Kiting is on the cutting edge of winter adventure sports, and draws more and more die-hard rookies every year. These outdoor extremists are absolutely amazing to watch. Snag a front row seat at one of the lake’s benches for this acrobatic show or walk along the three mile trail for a 360 degree view. The wind speed picks up depending on what side of the lake you are on, so stake a spot there to watch the more experienced snowkiters show off serious boarding skills.

Why not make a Saturday afternoon out of it? Pick up a hot cup of coffee at Caribou before you head over to the lake. Double up your layers and triple insulate your hands so you can take some great action shots. If you pick an extra windy day, you have an excellent chance to watch elite snowkiters show off  ‘Big Air’ jumps that pull them five feet or more off the ice in this amazing winter show!