Right off the bat, you may be thinking, why would I ever put on a bathing suit when it’s below 30°F outside? To be fair, you’re right! It sounds a little chilly…
However, Minnesota’s sauna culture is rooted deeply in Finnish heritage, with sauna enthusiasts seeking warmth and community during colder and darker winter months. This tradition has evolved into a cherished practice that offers both relaxation and social connection for everyone. In recent years, the popularity of saunas in Minnesota has increased, with new opportunities to experience a sauna session emerging across the state. People leave these experiences often feeling refreshed and energized! Especially with the dry and cold winter air, it is great to enjoy some humidity and heat. Think of it like a 75-minute tropical vacation with some cooldowns sprinkled in the mix!
The state, usually known for its winter snowfalls, has been experiencing an unusual lack of snow in recent years, raising concerns among winter enthusiasts and environmental experts alike. After our Programs Coordinator, Eva, explored outdoor saunaing recently in her pursuit of new ways to enjoy winter without the snow. She came back with the idea to embrace that same experience at Ney with wood-fired sauna sessions.
First time learning about the hobby? It’s pretty straightforward! Every sauna is different, but ours is wood-burning, meaning there is a fire in the stove that is in the room with you. On top of the stove there is a collection of rocks that you can pour water on for more steam, however, please note that if you sauna with anyone else, it is a courtesy to ask if they are okay with more steam, as sometimes it can be too much! The sauna inside is covered in wood and has benches to sit on. There is a small room between the sauna room and the door to the outside, in which you can leave things if you would like!
Each 75-minute session allows participants to cycle between the intense heat of the sauna and a cool-down method of their choice, such as stepping into the brisk winter air, rolling in the snow (when available), or dousing themselves with ice-cold water. This contrast between hot and cold is central to the sauna tradition, promoting relaxation and well-being. However, if you don’t want to endure the traditional cooldown you are welcome to relax in the sauna’s warmth. The average temperature of the Sauna will be between 180-200 degrees.
To ensure a comfortable experience, we are recommending that you wear your swimsuit or athletic clothing that can get wet to the event, making it easy to start your session when you arrive! However, we do have bathrooms you can change in if you prefer a dry drive home. Essential items to bring include a water bottle, a full-size towel to sit on inside the sauna, sandals for outdoor use to prevent tracking dirt into the sauna, and an additional towel, robe, or sweatshirt to wear between sauna rounds if you prefer. Some things to consider leaving at home or in your car include valuables and metal jewelry/water bottles, which can get very hot to the touch if you bring them in with you.
The Ney Nature Center staff will be on-site to maintain the wood-fired stove and assist with any questions. Children aged 12 and up are welcome when accompanied by a guardian. Each session accommodates up to six individuals, and private sessions can be arranged by booking all available spots. Pre-registration is required, and you can learn more and register on our Upcoming Programs Page.
These sessions are scheduled for Friday, Feb. 7th through Sunday the 9th, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the season in a natural setting. This may become a more frequent activity for us next year if we have the community’s interest in it, so register if you are available or promote it to your friends and family if you want to see more Sauna time at Ney!