Start with the aurora borealis flittering in a moonless sky. Add in a wolf's howl, 1,000 frozen lakes, and a sauna and you've got the Boundary Waters in winter. You can't always count on the northern lights or the wild canids, but you can depend on Gunflint Lodge and Northwoods Outfitters (gunflint.com) for everything else. Rent a pair of snowshoes and explore the five miles of trails outside your door. An ideal watching/listening spot: High Cliffs, a rise overlooking two lakes. Your sauna-equipped cabin welcomes you home (from $199).