Top 10 Winter Activities in Minnesota and Wisconsin You Can't Miss
- Minn Skin
- Dec 7
- 4 min read
Winter in Minnesota and Wisconsin offers a unique blend of snowy adventures, cozy retreats, and festive traditions. If you love crisp air, sparkling snow, and outdoor fun, these two states deliver some of the best winter experiences in the Midwest. Whether you want to glide across frozen lakes, explore charming small towns, or warm up with local flavors, this guide highlights the top 10 winter activities you should try. Plus, don’t forget to visit minnskin.com for all your skin treatment needs to keep your skin healthy during the cold months.
1. Ice Fishing on Minnesota’s Lakes
Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and winter turns many of these into prime ice fishing spots. Popular lakes like Mille Lacs, Lake of the Woods, and Leech Lake attract anglers from all over. Ice fishing involves drilling holes in the ice and dropping lines to catch fish like walleye, northern pike, and perch. Many resorts offer heated ice shanties, making the experience comfortable even on the coldest days.
Tips for beginners:
Dress in layers and wear insulated boots.
Use a portable ice auger to drill holes.
Check ice thickness for safety; at least 4 inches is recommended for walking.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding in Wisconsin’s Resorts
Wisconsin’s ski resorts offer slopes for all skill levels. Places like Granite Peak in Wausau and Cascade Mountain near Wisconsin Dells provide groomed trails, terrain parks, and ski schools. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find runs that suit your pace. Many resorts also have snow tubing hills and cozy lodges with fireplaces.
Why it’s great:
Family-friendly atmosphere.
Night skiing options.
Equipment rentals available on-site.
3. Snowshoeing Through Minnesota’s State Parks
Snowshoeing is a peaceful way to explore winter landscapes. Minnesota’s state parks such as Jay Cooke and Itasca offer marked trails perfect for snowshoeing. This activity is easy to learn and a great workout. You’ll see frozen waterfalls, snow-covered trees, and maybe even wildlife tracks in the snow.
What to bring:
Snowshoes (rent or buy).
Trekking poles for balance.
Warm, waterproof clothing.
4. Winter Festivals in Wisconsin
Wisconsin hosts several winter festivals that celebrate the season with food, music, and activities. The Winter Festival in Bayfield features ice sculpting contests, snowshoe races, and local crafts. The St. Paul Winter Carnival, just across the border in Minnesota, is famous for its ice palaces and parades.
Highlights:
Try local cheese and bratwurst.
Enjoy live music and dance.
Participate in family-friendly games.
5. Cross-Country Skiing in Minnesota’s Trails
Cross-country skiing is a favorite winter pastime in Minnesota. The state maintains hundreds of miles of groomed trails in places like the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area and the Superior National Forest. This low-impact sport lets you glide through quiet forests and open fields, soaking in the winter scenery.
Benefits:
Great cardiovascular exercise.
Suitable for all ages.
Equipment rentals often available nearby.
6. Snowmobiling Adventures in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has over 25,000 miles of snowmobile trails, making it a top destination for snowmobilers. The trails wind through forests, farmland, and small towns. Popular areas include the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest and the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Snowmobile rentals and guided tours are widely available.
Safety tips:
Always wear a helmet.
Stay on marked trails.
Check weather and trail conditions before heading out.
7. Visit Ice Castles in Minnesota
The Ice Castles attraction is a magical winter experience built from thousands of icicles. Located in places like Stillwater and New Brighton, these castles feature tunnels, slides, and towers illuminated by colorful LED lights. It’s a perfect spot for families and photographers.
What to expect:
Dress warmly; it’s very cold inside.
Tickets are required and sell out fast.
Visit at night for the best light displays.
8. Enjoying Local Breweries and Distilleries
Both states have vibrant craft beer and spirits scenes. After a day in the cold, warming up with a local brew or cocktail is a treat. Wisconsin is famous for its breweries in Milwaukee and Madison, while Minnesota offers unique distilleries and taprooms in Minneapolis and Duluth.
Suggestions:
Try a winter ale or spiced cider.
Join brewery tours to learn about the brewing process.
Pair drinks with hearty pub food.
9. Sledding and Tubing Hills for Family Fun
Sledding and tubing are simple, joyful winter activities perfect for families. Minnesota’s Como Park and Wisconsin’s Cascade Mountain have dedicated hills with lifts and rental tubes. These spots offer safe, groomed runs and warming huts.
Why it’s fun:
No special skills required.
Great for kids and adults.
Affordable and accessible.
10. Exploring Historic Small Towns
Winter is a charming time to visit small towns like Stillwater, MN, and Bayfield, WI. These towns offer cozy shops, local eateries, and festive decorations. You can stroll through snow-dusted streets, visit art galleries, and enjoy seasonal treats like hot chocolate and fresh-baked goods.
Tips for your visit:
Check local event calendars for winter markets.
Dress for walking in snow and ice.
Support local businesses by buying handmade gifts.
Winter in Minnesota and Wisconsin is packed with activities that bring out the best of the season. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor experiences, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained and warm. Remember to take care of your skin during the cold months by visiting minnskin.com for expert skin treatments and advice.
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