DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks,
Trails, Forests And Recreation Areas
 Exploring your favorite places by snowshoe can give you a new perspective. / Photo credit: Travel Wisconsin
Elevate Your Hike With Snowshoes
As snow accumulates across the state, now is the perfect time to start planning your next winter #OutWiGo adventure. Winter hiking is always a special experience, but using snowshoes can give you another option for traversing through the snow while keeping your feet dry - literally floating your feet above the snow.
Snowshoeing is a relatively easy activity to learn, and the rewards are abundant. It is an excellent activity for those of all ages, from kids to adults to seniors. For those new to snowshoeing, here are some basics:
- Get snowshoes that are right for your weight, the terrain and the snow conditions
- Wear warm, waterproof boots
- Dress in layers with clothing that can handle cold, wet conditions
- Bring adjustable poles with snow baskets (optional but recommended)
- Pack essentials with you, like water, a headlamp or flashlight, a snack, and some sort of directional guidance (like a paper map or a compass)
There are techniques to getting your snowshoeing groove down, but the more you practice, the better you'll be. When you fall (and don't worry, you might fall - no one is looking!), you'll want to be able to get yourself back up without taking off the shoes. If you use poles, you'll want to know how and when to use them so you're not putting undue weight on them.
No snowshoes? No problem!
Check out a pair from one of these properties:
Snowshoe rentals are also available at the following wildlife areas:
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Where to go?
The good news about snowshoeing is that you can go just about anywhere you can hike! Look for specially marked snowshoe trails at several properties, as some trails are converted into cross-country ski trails. Some routes may only be available to snowshoes, and some routes will open up in winter that are not open in summer. Because snowshoes keep you on top of the snow rather than sinking like boots, snowshoes allow you to explore further than in summer.
Here are some of the DNR Parks and Recreation staff's favorite hiking spots - bookmark these for winter or summer.
Once you're ready to go, grab a buddy and head out for some snow adventures. You can even take your four-legged sidekicks with you - just be sure to keep them on a leash.
Photo credit above, snowshoer with dog, Travel Wisconsin
Photo credit below: snowshoers at Big Bay State Park, Wisconsin DNR
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Run For The Trees! Registration Is Open For The Happy Little 5k.
The popular virtual 5k race comes to Wisconsin! Sign-up today for the Happy Little 5k to benefit trees. Wisconsin joins Michigan, Ohio and South Carolina as a participating partner with Bob Ross Inc. to offer this virtual run, walk or roll. A portion of your registration fee supports tree health and planting efforts at Wisconsin state parks. Sign-up, receive your Bob Ross Happy Little Trees race kit and complete your 5k (3.1 miles) between April 22 and 28, 2023. Register and find more information here.
Suggested race routes at Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas coming soon. Keep up-to-date with our OutWiGo page.
Photo credit: Michigan DNR
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Candlelight Events Scheduled For 2023
Candlelight events return to Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas in 2023. Candlelight events are sponsored by properties or their Friends groups. They are a great way to get out and recreate all winter long!
Join new and beginning hikers, skiers and snowshoers in exploring state park properties during twilight hours with candlelight guiding the way. Check out the DNR events webpage for event-specific information. Each event has different hours and activities, such as bonfires, refreshments and free equipment rental.
The first event is scheduled for Jan. 7 at Rib Mountain State Park, with events at the Black River State Forest, Brule River State Forest, Devil's Lake State Park, Havenwoods State Forest, Horicon Marsh, Interstate Park, Lapham Peak Unit - Kettle Moraine State Forest, Pike Lake Unit - Kettle Moraine State Forest, Point Beach State Forest, Potawatomi State Park, Red Cedar State Trail, and Stower-Seven Lakes State Trail. The last scheduled event is Feb. 25 at the Hank Aaron State Trail.
Admission to Wisconsin state parks and/or a state trail pass may be required. Please check with each property. Daily admission passes to the Wisconsin State Park System may be available from your local library.
More events may be added! Check the DNR events calendar often.
Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR
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Mirror Lake State Park
Mirror Lake State Park is named for its centerpiece, a lake that often is so calm that not a ripple marks its surface. The lake reflects a wooded shoreline, with cliffs up to 50 feet high, home to a variety of wildlife. The park's 2,200 acres offer year-round recreation, quiet and beauty outside the bustling Wisconsin Dells and Lake Delton area.
Mirror Lake is home to the Seth Peterson Cottage, a Frank Lloyd Wright designed cottage available for rent, an amphitheater for seasonal performances, and rental equipment for a variety of activities. For those who love autumn, the Friends of Mirror Lake State Park host the S'mores Fun Run every October.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing options are plentiful at Mirror Lake State Park with numerous opportunities. About 4-miles of trail are available for hiking, snowshoeing and winter biking. Over 18-miles of trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing. Check trail conditions before you go. Hikers and dogs should stay off groomed ski trails.
During winter, camping is available in the Sandstone Ridge Campground at sites 58-65. These sites all have electricity and are plowed. Reservations are required. Mirror Lake's other campgrounds and all shower buildings, flush toilets and the dump station are closed during winter. Vault toilets are available behind site 59 and water is available at the park entrance station.
Ice fishing, when available, is another popular activity on Mirror Lake. Be aware, park staff do not monitor ice conditions on the lake. Be extremely cautious of ice conditions at all times.
Mirror Lake State Park is located between Baraboo and Lake Delton. Learn more about the park on the DNR's website.
Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
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Snowshoe Hike Along Stute Springs Nature Trail
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
Saturday, Dec. 24
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
We are making tracks in the KMSF-SU! Join us on a series of hikes/snowshoeing jaunts throughout the forest. We will be looking for and identifying animal tracks. Dress warm and join us for an adventure! We have snowshoes, including children's sizes, to lend out during the event. Supplies are limited.
This hike features moderate hills and is 1.5 miles long. Meet at County Rd Z, South of Headquarters in Eagle. A valid state park vehicle admission sticker or day pass is required.
Potawatomi Tower Public Information Session
Virtual
Thursday, Jan. 12
6 p.m.
DNR representatives and engineers share the next steps in the Potawatomi Tower project. No registration required. Join online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83130959443 or by phone: (312) 626-6799.
Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR
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What are your favorite snowshoe spots?
Let us know on social media using #OutWiGo!
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