A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
This winter, get whisked away and see the magical winter wonderlands of our beautiful state. Find a winter wonderland in a region near you! Whether you visit Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western, or Central Wisconsin, a magical, wintery experience awaits!
Northern Wisconsin
Start your excursion in Northern Wisconsin, full of tucked-away nooks from ice caves to the untouched Northwoods.
At the northern peak of Wisconsin, Bayfield County is home to ice caves! On the shores of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore forms this scenic and slippery landscape, attracting visitors from all across the state. Before entering the breathtaking caves of this winter wonderland, be sure to check the conditions.
Embark on yet another unforgettable exploration in the Northwoods–a vast winter haven–by snowmobiling in Vilas County, which is home to the Snowmobile Capital of the World. Eagle River has over 100 miles of wooded trails weaving through the snow-packed evergreens. You will certainly be in awe of this naturally beautiful and expansive winter wonderland.
Southern Wisconsin
Head south and take in their secret serenities including magical ice castles and into a heartland of winter.
In Walworth County, be transported to Lake Geneva’s magical land of ice castles. Each year, Geneva National Resort creates an incredible kingdom of ice castles–one of the only five ice castles in the country! Exploring the castles first-hand and their unique features, such as frozen slides, crawl spaces, and even spouting fountains!
For a thrilling wintery wonderland, visit Kenosha County’s Wilmot Mountain. From skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing, there will certainly be an outdoor activity you love! Each activity offered will give you butterflies as you barrel down their groomed (and steep) hills. You’re bound to make memories of a lifetime.
Eastern Wisconsin
In Eastern Wisconsin, there are many exciting escapes like resorts and county parks that will make for a wonderful winter experience!
Sneak away to Destination Kohler in Sheboygan County for an all-encompassing winter wonderland experience. One site, they have several activities and amenities. Enjoy everything from ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking and even curling! To top it off, there’s a hot cocoa bar to warm you up in this dreamy winter extravaganza.
Set forth on another journey at Door County’s Cave Point County Park, where winter brings picturesque views that will leave you speechless. With waves constantly rustling, icicles form on the rocky shoreline creating quite a spectacular escape to explore. If you are feeling adventurous, you can travel the trail to get a closer view at the icicles, but use caution!
Western Wisconsin
Time to head west and be blown away by their magnificent wonders each offering exhilarating excitement!
If you’re seeking a thrill, Mt. La Crosse in La Crosse County is a must-add to your list of Wisconsin winter wonderlands! Mt. La Crosse is home to immaculately groomed snowboarding and skiing slopes that make for an all-time winter wonderland. While you’re there, and if conditions are fair, cruise the trails of the terrain park.
Down for a wild ride in a secluded, action-packed park? Look no further than WoodWind Park in Dunn County! From downhill skiing and snowboarding to epic tubing, there’s no doubt you’ll have a blast. Set in the heart of Western Wisconsin’s wilderness, this winter wonderland will bring both the fun and the beauty.
Central Wisconsin
The Central Region of Wisconsin surely knows how to bring the winter charm with its spectacular winter wonderlands.
Reach new heights at Granite Peak in Marathon County, ranked Wisconsin’s #1 ski area! At Granite Peak, there are over 60 trails that will take you through the 200 acres of natural terrain. Take the groomed trail or make your own as you explore the ins and outs of this Wisconsin winter wonderland.
For a bountiful winter wonderland of fun, visit Iverson Park in Stevens Point, located in Portage County. Iverson Park is home to sled-fulls of fun from runs and toboggan slides to trails and even a lighted skating rink. Time to pack your gear!
With wonderlands scattered throughout Wisconsin’s regions, you’re bound to have a blast! Visit a region near you and begin your wintery (and wondrous) adventure!
–Hailey Rose, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show Saturdays at 10 a.m. on Bally Sports Wisconsin or online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin
