There’s nothing quite like winter in Vilas County in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Whether you’re here to travel the top-notch snowmobile trails, explore snow-covered ski and snowshoe routes, or catch a fun community event, you’ll find plenty to see and do. Need some inspiration for your next winter getaway? Here are 10 things you shouldn’t miss.
- Vilas County is one of the top snowmobiling destinations in the Midwest: it boasts more than 500 miles of scenic, expertly groomed trails, and local snowmobile clubs work hard to make the trails fun and safe for all riders. You can explore stunning forests, lakes, and other snow-covered scenery wherever you ride. See some snowmobile trails you shouldn’t miss here.
- Speaking of snowmobiling, Vilas County’s winter events calendar is filled with fun events like the World Championship Snowmobile Derby (held in Eagle River the third weekend in January), as well as festivals, rides, and radar runs put on by local clubs. Other popular winter events include the Pond Hockey National Championship in Eagle River and the Three Bear Sled Dog Races in Land O’ Lakes.
- Want to take a quieter trip through northern Wisconsin’s beautiful winter scenery? Grab a pair of cross-country skis and explore some of Vilas County’s amazing ski trails. There are hundreds of miles of trails to choose from, no matter if you’re a beginner or an expert or whether you’re looking for classic skiing or skate skiing. Learn more here.
- Snowshoeing offers an even more exciting way to traverse the Northwoods—unlike skiing, you don’t have to stick to a groomed path, so you can explore Vilas County’s stunning public lands and reach areas that might be inaccessible in the warmer months.
- Explore the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. This recreational wonder covers more than 200,000 acres in three northern Wisconsin counties (including Vilas County) and is a great place for winter activities like snowmobiling (400+ miles of trails) and cross-country skiing (70 miles of trails).
- Whether you’re snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, or hiking, you can find your next trail to explore with the Map It Vilas County trails app. This free app is available for Apple and Android devices and will help you discover trails to explore based on activity, location, amenities, and more. And it’ll even help you navigate your route without a cell signal!
- Vilas County’s lakes aren’t just for fishing in spring, summer, and fall. Here, you’ll find some of the best ice fishing in northern Wisconsin, whether you’re looking for panfish, walleye, or northern. Learn more about fishing in Vilas County here.
- Lace up a pair of skates and explore Vilas County’s ice rinks or The Glide at Boulder Junction Winter Park, a 0.8-mile skating ribbon that offers a one-of-a-kind winter experience. Ice rinks can also be found in Land O’ Lakes, Eagle River, Conover, and Arbor Vitae. Learn more about ice skating in Vilas County.
- End your day of winter adventures at a mouthwatering supper club, family restaurant, or other eatery—Vilas County is home to classic Northwoods offerings like fish fry and prime rib, as well as delicious pizzas, burgers, and more. Find restaurants here.
- Relax at one of Vilas County’s comfy and cozy lodging properties. You’ll find lakeside resorts, classic Northwoods cabins, hotels, motels, and vacation homes with amazing amenities and quick access to recreational trails throughout northern Wisconsin.
