DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks,
Trails, Forests And Recreation Areas
 Start out early on the longest night to catch sunset views. / Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR
Winter Solstice Is Dec. 21
This week's snowfall certainly makes Wisconsin look ready for winter, as the season officially begins next Wednesday, Dec. 21.
On this day, the winter solstice, the Earth reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and the longest night in the Northern Hemisphere.
The significance of the solstice varies from culture to culture. This day has been called the "rebirth of the sun." For many cultures, it is a time to honor the cycle of death and rebirth and revive the Earth's aura.
Despite the short day, there is still time to get out and play. Some park properties are holding solstice events. Consider exploring trails or viewpoints during the early morning or put on a headlamp to do some evening exploration. Head out at sunset for the best lighting.
If you're unaccustomed to hiking when it's darker, stick to easier trails, trails you know or paved surfaces. It will be cooler at night, so wear more layers and be sure to let someone know where you're going.
When hiking at night, you can see stars and night critters. Enjoy the views of your favorite parks through leafless trees, snowcapped peaks and freezing waters. Take note of the sounds you hear at night or in stillness. If you're seeking daytime indoor activities, you can also enjoy our state parks by heading inside to take in the many nature centers across the state.
We welcome winter and the time it gives us to slow down, reflect, bundle up and take in the world around us. We hope you find outdoor enjoyment this winter season.
Save The Date For First Day Hikes
Kick-off 2023 with a First Day Hike! On Sunday, Jan. 1, several Wisconsin state parks will host a First Day Hike to welcome in the new year. Bring your family, yourself or your four-legged best friend to hike, snowshoe or ski.
Guided hikes offer a range of difficulty levels, or opt for a self-guided hike at your own pace and meet up for a post-hike bonfire and refreshments. Several properties will offer participants an opportunity to hike alongside park naturalists to learn more about the history and landscape.
While most of the events include options for hiking or snowshoeing, some trails will be groomed for cross-country skiing. Snowshoes may be available to use. You can wear a regular hiking or winter boot with snowshoes. Most hikes will only require warm clothes, hats and mittens; warm boots or insulated hiking shoes; drinking water; and a willingness to get outside.
Check with the property for universally accessible trail conditions, or reserve an outdoor wheelchair. Some guided hikes are pet-free, so please check with the property before taking your furry-footed friends.
First Day Hikes events are free, but a Wisconsin state park admission sticker or a state trail pass may be required. A state park daily admission pass may be available to check-out from your local library; check here for a list of participating libraries.
Participating properties include:
- Buckhorn State Park
- Devil’s Lake State Park
- Interstate Park
- Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak
- Kettle Moraine State Forest – Pike Lake
- Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit
- MacKenzie Center
- Mirror Lake State Park
- Newport State Park
- Peninsula State Park
- Point Beach State Forest
- Red Cedar State Trail
- Richard Bong State Recreation Area
- Roche-A-Cri State Park
- Straight Lake State Park
- Whitefish Dunes State Park
For details on each event, visit the DNR’s event calendar and search “First Day Hike” under the “type” field. Events may be canceled due to weather.
Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
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Hartman Creek State Park
Located on the beautiful Chain O' Lakes, Hartman Creek State Park is a quiet and friendly natural gem and a popular destination in central Wisconsin. The historic Hellestad House log cabin, built in 1864, sits within the park and is available for touring.
In addition to the eponymous creek, Hartman contains several lakes and the Pope Lake State Natural Area, with more lakes and trails.
Winter activities are abundant at Hartman Creek. In winter, 3.5 miles of trails are available for snowshoeing. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also allowed off-trail in the park, except on the 6 miles of groomed ski trails. The park does not monitor ice conditions for ice fishing.
Hartman Creek's 9.4 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails are open year-round. During winter, the Cronies volunteer group grooms these trails for fat tire and winter bikes. Please refer to the Cronies Trail Crew page for current trail updates.
The opening and closing of snowmobile trails are at the discretion of each county. Snowmobile trails that cross DNR lands are opened and closed consistent with the surrounding county (or counties). Whenever possible, the opening and closing of snowmobile trails are done on a county-wide basis. However, localized conditions may require localized trail opening and closing.
The Travel Wisconsin Snow Conditions Report, local club and county snowmobile web pages and telephone hotlines will provide the most current snowmobile trail information.
Head to central Wisconsin to check out this hidden gem for all your winter activities.
Hartman Creek State Park is located in Waupaca. Learn more about it.
Photo Credit: Kay Leege
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Winter Festival
Havenwoods State Forest
Saturday, Dec. 17
12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
A wonderful family event that highlights how animals get ready for winter and includes fun-filled activities.
Go on an adventure to find animal tracks and homes. Enjoy hot chocolate, hot cider, s’mores, and snacks. Make your own animal tracks to take home. Come out for a great day!
(The snowshoes will be ready in case of snow.)
Winter Solstice Night Hike
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
Wednesday, Dec. 21
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Gather around the fire as we share traditions of the longest night of the year. We will then travel through the dark woods to discover what animals are awake and braving the cold of a winter night. This program is best for families with children more than 6 years old. A Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required.
Meet at the Zillmer Trail Shelter (W833 County Road SS, Campbellsport – between County Road G and Hwy 67 near New Prospect).
Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR
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How do you stay warm and active during winter?
Let us know on social media using #OutWiGo!
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