DNR Parks And Recreation News
What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas
 Golden hour looks gorgeous during a snow-free January evening at Capitol Springs State Reacreation Area.
OutWiGo, Snow Or No
Some areas across the state might not look very "wintery," but there are still plenty of things to appreciate and enjoy during the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System. Don't let snow (or a lack thereof) slow your roll.
Regardless of the conditions, you can always take a walk outdoors. This has been a favorite activity for our DNR Parks staff this season, especially through some of Wisconsin's magnificent prairies. There is plenty of color to see, from the light tan and red grasses to purple brambles, blue sky and pink sunsets. These areas can also stay illuminated for longer in the evenings, especially in open flat sections. This gives you the perfect chance to appreciate the birds and open sky.
Want a different experience later at night, maybe through a forest? Look for candlelight hikes near you. Exercise feels more fun on illuminated trails, and these events offer some great after-hours fun with opportunities to build community on a hike or around warming fires post-workout.
Astronomy might be the answer if you're looking to get away and enjoy a night experience without crowds or illumination. Winter is a great time for the northern lights.
Finally, if you're in an area with state trails, take advantage of snow-free conditions and do some bundled biking. Buy your trail pass and hit the trails! Pro tip: DIY a few mudguards to help stay muck-free. Many trails are ATV-friendly as well. Sort these locations on our Find a Park page with the Activities tab.
 Capitol Springs State Recreation Area's snowy sunset is also pretty cool.
Do you have snow near you, or want to check the trail conditions before heading somewhere that does?
Check out our list of recommended properties for cross-country skiing and view Travel Wisconsin's Cross Country Ski Report for updated trail conditions. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking and snowmobiling are classic snow activities, but there is more to try. Test your wildlife ID skills and try winter tracking with a friend or attend a DNR tracking event. Ice fishing is also a great time. If you're more of an open-water angler, this can be your chance to expand your time on the water. If ice conditions are safe, give it a shot!
Even hiking the same trail can feel more extreme and wonderous in winter with icy ground and snow lining the rocks. Beyond physical benefits, recreating and exercising in the outdoors offers a variety of mental health benefits. Regardless of the activity, get out there and have fun experiencing Wisconsin this winter.
Outdoor News And Announcements
 Join our team through the seasonal staff hiring process.
The DNR Is Hiring!
The DNR is now hiring seasonal staff for Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas. This unique and rewarding opportunity allows you to utilize your skills or discover new ones.
Limited-term seasonal positions with the Wisconsin State Park System are a great way to spend your summer outside, helping the public enjoy Wisconsin's natural resources and creating lasting memories. Seasonal staff are responsible for outdoor maintenance, facility maintenance, groundskeeping work and customer service for property visitors. Limited-term seasonal positions provide valuable experience for a career in natural resources, an opportunity to gain or improve your skill set and the chance to contribute to a positive outdoor experience for millions of visitors.
Seasonal work typically starts in the spring to early summer and extends through late summer to fall, with flexibility depending upon the candidate's availability and the property's needs.
Positions are available across the state, from the urban natural spaces in Milwaukee to the forests of northern Wisconsin and the islands and shores of the Great Lakes. The following positions are open at various locations:
- Park rangers
- Visitor services associates
- Natural resources educators
- Assistant naturalist guides
- Park technicians
- Campground attendants
- Groundskeepers
To apply, visit Wisc.Jobs and search "Parks."
ATV & UTV Ice Safety
Frost, ice and fresh snow on winter roads or trails can cause treacherous conditions. Remember to stay sober, wear proper safety gear and be careful when slowing down and approaching turns.
If your winter outing involves traveling over a waterbody, remember that no ice is 100% safe. Be especially mindful of lake inlets, outlets, narrows, springs or currents that could weaken ice.
Here are a few more safety tips to keep in mind when operating recreational vehicles during winter.
- Remember that ice is never completely safe under any conditions.
- The DNR does not monitor ice conditions. Local fishing clubs, outfitters and bait shops are the best sources for current ice conditions.
- Wear proper clothing and equipment, including a personal flotation device or a float coat, to help you stay afloat and slow body heat loss.
- Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during your ride.
- Carry a cell phone, and let people know where you are going and when you'll return home.
- Slow down when traveling at night.
- Watch for pressure ridges or ice buckling. These can be dangerous due to thin ice and open water.
In addition to these safety tips, the DNR reminds riders to check trail conditions by contacting your county forestry and/or parks department, local clubs or viewing Travel Wisconsin's Snow Report.
Visit the DNR's Ice Safety webpage for more information on staying safe on the ice.
Buy Your Trail Pass
A state trail pass is required for all people age 16 or older who bike, cross-country ski, horseback ride or inline skate on certain state trails. A state trail pass is not required for walking or hiking. State trail passes are valid for the calendar year and can be purchased online, at individual properties, at DNR service centers or from state trail pass vendors. Purchase a Wisconsin state trail pass online by selecting "Trail Pass" under "Product Type."
Upcoming Events
Candlelight Night
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Interstate Park
5 – 8 p.m.
Enjoy a winter evening at Interstate Park with hundreds of luminaries guiding your path. One-mile loop trails will be available for skiing, snowshoeing and hiking.
Park at the Ice Age Center for skiing or at the Camp Interstate Shelter for snowshoeing and hiking.
There will be warming fires at all locations and live music, refreshments and kids activities at the Ice Age Interpretive Center. Arrive early as parking is limited at the Ice Age Center.
Dress appropriately for the weather. If there is enough snow, snowshoes will be available to borrow. The event will occur even if there is limited or no snow, but all activities may not be available.
Candlelight Ski/Hike
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Brule River State Forest
5 – 8 p.m.
Please join us for our annual candlelight ski, snowshoe and hike event. Enjoy the unique experience of our trails under the glow of about 500 lit bags.
We plan to have two separately lit trails this year to make the experience safer and more practical for the trail users. The event will take place even if we do not have enough snow to effectively groom the trails for skiing. The snowshoe trail will be lit at a minimum for this event.
Coffee, hot cocoa and hot apple cider will be provided. Bring your own snacks or food for grilling, as we will also have a grill available for anyone to use. Our chalet is heated, but there will also be a warming fire outside.
Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Lake Wissota State Park
5 – 8 p.m.
Join us at the Lake Wissota State Park Boat Landing trailhead for an evening of outdoor recreation. We plan to have two candlelit trails: one groomed for skiing and a separate trail maintained for hiking and snowshoeing.
The Friends of Lake Wissota State Park will be taking donations for hot drinks. Campfires will be provided and can be used for cooking if you bring your own provisions for hotdogs or s'mores. No pets, please.
Return To Romance
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, Richard Bong State Recreation Area
6 – 8 p.m.
Enjoy a romantic stroll down our groomed and lighted walking trails, then meet in the Visitor Center Auditorium to enjoy soft live music by local musicians, warm your insides with one of several warm drinks and snack on locally made sweets and pastries.
Please register to attend this event by filling out our online form.
Wings & Wilderness Walk
Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, Willow River State Park
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly birding hike! This short trek will lead us through some of the best local habitats for spotting winter birds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just getting started, bring your binoculars (or borrow a pair of ours) and learn to identify a variety of feathered friends by sight and sound. Our guide will share tips on birdwatching and help you discover what makes our local species unique. Dress warmly, bring a water bottle and get ready to experience the wonders of winter birdlife.
Meet at Willow River Nature Center. The hike will begin at 9 a.m. sharp.
This event is free to attend, but vehicle admission into the park is required. Donations are welcome and make our programming possible. All outdoor events are weather-dependent.
Eagle Adventure Bus Tour
Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, Horicon Marsh Education Center
1 – 4 p.m.
Bald eagles overwinter in many places in Wisconsin, and in recent years, there has been an increase in their numbers around Horicon Marsh. Take a bus tour to see these magnificent birds!
Meet at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center for a guided bus tour that will take you to areas that have held bald eagles in the past. Bring warm clothes and binoculars. Spotting scopes for all will be available.
"Eagle" be a good time!
This event has a limit of 30 participants; register in advance and pay the $15 nonrefundable fee online. You must register and prepay to secure your spot.
Snowshoe Tracking
Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit
10 a.m. – noon
Join us for a series of tracking adventures! Learn how to track in our forest. In dirt or snow, the creatures go! Warm clothing recommended – limited snowshoes available to use if plentiful snow is present at no cost. Child sizing included.
This trail has moderate hills and covers 1.5 miles. Bringing your own snowshoes is encouraged.
We will be on the Ice Age Trail by the forest headquarters.
Meet at S91 W39091 Hwy 59, Eagle, WI.
Winter Bird Hike
Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, Devil's Lake State Park
10:30 a.m. – noon
Winter is a great time to go bird watching, with leafless trees and a snowy landscape making it easier to find the birds. Dress warm, as we will spend most of the time outside looking for sparrows, juncos, hawks and owls. We have binoculars you can borrow.
This program is best for kids 10 and up and adults. We ask you leave your dogs at home for this hike.
Meet at the Steinke Basin Parking Lot.
Find more events at properties near you on the DNR Events calendar.
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