We asked you, you responded—in volumes! After reviewing dozens of submissions for our annual reader-submitted Winter Photo Contest, we’ve chosen the top 10 breathtaking winter images to showcase. Congratulations to the winners, and a big thanks to all who submitted! (Bonus: Whittling the choices down to 10 was extremely difficult, so we’ve thrown in a few extra here.)
Michael Anderson captured the stunning phenomenon of sea smoke on a -11°F morning, as cold air meets warmer Lake Superior waters, creating an ethereal fog at sunset near his favorite Minnesota landmark.
Photo submitted by Michael Anderson
A rare leucistic blue jay was photographed by Nicole Frederick in Alexandria, as it returned to her yard during a snowy November day, showcasing its striking white feathers amid the branches.
Photo submitted by Nicole Frederick
On a frigid January morning, with temperatures plunging to -30°F, Daniel Averbeck ventured to the Mississippi River to witness the sunrise. He says, “The contrast of the glowing sunrise and the frosty white trees gave a warmth to my bones.”
Photo submitted by Daniel Averbeck
David Ellis took this photo at sunrise on Lake Superior’s North Shore on a -30°F day. In this scene, sea smoke is rising off the lake, ice is frozen along the sides of the crevasse, and water is moving through the foreground. “I have been taking photos at this location for years, and it looks different every time I visit,” Ellis says.
Photo submitted by David Ellis
Omar Ghrayeb captured mallards gathering up on Wayzata Bay on Lake Minnetonka. As the lake was freezing up, this was the last open spot on the bay for the ducks to gather. Their paddling delayed the water from freezing.
Photo submitted by Omar Ghrayeb
In a jack pine forest, this serene winter scene—taken by Lisa Diehl Foreman—shows a doe and her yearling, peacefully enjoying the stillness and beauty of nature in a quiet winter wonderland.
Photo submitted by Lisa Diehl Foreman
Claire Aho’s photo, taken at Bluefin Bay Resort in Tofte, shows sunlight gently peeking through icicles during a December family ski trip, highlighting the serene beauty of winter’s frozen artwork.
Photo submitted by Claire Aho
Taken in Lac Qui Parle County in December 2023, Matthew Borchert’s photo captures a frosted, icy scene of a rural Minnesota winter. Early morning fog coats a harvested cornfield, evoking solitude and the stillness of the season.
Photo submitted by Matthew Borchert
Captured from a drone by Logan Falzone at Canal Park, this photo shows a unique ice pattern forming around the lighthouse, with the perfect weather conditions enhancing the intricate design on Lake Superior’s frozen surface.
Photo submitted by Logan Falzone
Andy Benson’s dog, Otis, eagerly holds a hockey puck in his mouth, showcasing his love for outdoor adventures, especially pond hockey on the outdoor rink. A true winter enthusiast!
