Winter Activities

Things to Do in Minocqua In Winter

When winter settles over Minocqua, it brings a new season of family fun to our charming corner of Wisconsin. As lakes freeze, summer activities transform into thrilling winter adventures. Swap out your bathing suit for ice skates and your fishing pole for a tip-up as you experience the excitement of reeling in a trophy walleye through thick ice!

Gone are the summer boats, replaced by snowmobiles weaving through miles of snowy trails, each track a story of winter exploration. Bundle up and hit the snowy paths on cross-country skis or snowshoes, winding through peaceful, snow-draped forests. After a day outdoors, cozy up fireside at one of our warm lodges or cabins—where winter feels like home.

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Trail Reports

Check back here for weekly updates on snow depth, grooming schedules, and current conditions for all winter activities. Our local crews work hard to maintain Mincocqua’s network trails for your enjoyment.

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Snowmobiling

Thanks to the hard work of our area snowmobile clubs and volunteers, an extensive network of professionally groomed trails — more than 1600 miles — are maintained in the Minocqua area.

See More on the Premier Places to Ride

Ice Skating

Make family memories teaching the little ones to skate for the first time or glide around hand in hand on a chilly date night.

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Ice fishing

Whether you love the solitude of being out on a frozen lake, the challenge of the sport, or the camaraderie found in an ice shanty town, ice fishing is an activity for everyone.

From Tips To Tip Ups, Find More In Our Guide

Cross Country skiing & Snowshoeing

Many popular summer trails become even more picturesque covered in snow. Strap on your skis or snowshoes and explore miles of snow-covered forests, frozen landscapes, and peaceful winter scenery.

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Tubing

Tubing is easy and doesn't require any expensive equipment. Racing down a local hill will fill anyone with a rush of excitement and a face full of snow.

Fat Tire Biking

Two wheels, four seasons. Fat tire biking keeps the riding season rolling long after the snow starts to fly. Wide tires make it possible to cruise groomed winter trails and explore the Northwoods in an entirely different way. Bundle up, hit the trail, and discover why biking in Minocqua doesn’t have to stop when winter arrives.

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Snowmy Kromer

With a height of 30 feet and a waist of 16 feet, it’s hard to miss Snowmy Kromer! This larger-than-life figure has become a regular roadside fixture along Highway 51 as you pass the Let's Minocqua Visitors Center and approach the bridge entering Minocqua each winter. Read more on the Legend of Snowmy Kromer.

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Winter Trails

Minocqua Area Trail

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Raven Trail System

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Lambo Trail

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See the Northern Lights

The dark skies of the Northwoods make Minocqua a perfect spot for catching the Northern Lights (when conditions are right). While we can't guarantee nature’s light show will appear on your visit, knowing when and where to look increases your chances of seeing this spectacular phenomenon!

The best viewing happens on clear nights away from town lights. Local favorite viewing spots include boat landings and lakeshores, with open views of the northern horizon. Keep an eye on Aurora forecasts, which are often announced a day or two ahead.