DNR Parks And Recreation News

What’s Happening In Wisconsin's State Parks, Forests, Trails And Recreation Areas

Kick of 2026 with a First Day Hike!

Kick Off The New Year With A First Day Hike

This New Year's Day, take on a First Day Hike at a property near you. Hikes are scheduled across Wisconsin!

Several properties offer guided hikes of 1 to 3 miles, led by property naturalists or local experts. These hikes have a specific start time and gathering spot, providing a great introduction for all visitors. Experienced hikers are invited to share their knowledge and help build the state's outdoor community. Some guided hikes are pet-free, so please check with the property before bringing pets.

Alternatively, self-guided hikes allow participants to set their own pace and difficulty level, from gently sloping nature trails to advanced routes. Drop by anytime during the event window, and property staff may be available to offer maps and recommendations for self-guided adventures.

Most events also include options beyond hiking, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, refreshments and other winter activities. Those interested in snowshoe rentals or reserving an outdoor wheelchair should contact the property beforehand. Additionally, check with the property for universally accessible trail conditions. Some properties will also have bonfires or warming shelters open to visitors.

First Day Hikes are free, but a Wisconsin state park and forest vehicle admission pass or state trail pass may be required depending on the activity type. For those who need a state park daily admission pass, a free one may be available at your local library. Learn more about participating libraries.

First Day Hike Locations

• Buckhorn State Park
• Copper Falls State Park
• Devil's Lake State Park
• Governor Dodge State Park
• Harrington Beach State Park
• Havenwoods State Forest
• High Cliff State Park
• Interstate Park
• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit
• Kettle Moraine State Forest – Pike Lake Unit
• Kohler-Andrae State Park
• Mackenzie Center
• Mirror Lake State Park
• Newport State Park
• Pattison State Park
• Point Beach State Forest
• Red Cedar State Trail
• Roche-A-Cri State Park
• Straight Lake State Park
• Whitefish Dunes State Park

For details on First Day Hike events, visit the DNR's Events calendar. Note that events may be canceled in cases of inclement weather. More events may be added; check the event calendar or call the property office for the latest information.

Purchase $45 and $100 Holiday Merchandise Packages this December.

Last Chance Sales

Pick up the last of our 125th Anniversary Holiday Merchandise Packages! All sales support the Wisconsin State Park System and make the perfect gift for family and friends. View our updated merchandise catalog to find more information about available items across the state. Please call ahead to the property of interest to check upcoming hours and availability.

Hit the trails and explore the outdoors on skis this winter.

Hit The Trails This Winter

For decades, visitors to Wisconsin state parks and forests have enjoyed one of winter’s most popular outdoor recreation activities, cross-country skiing.

From Wyalusing State Park in Bagley to Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek and Pattison State Park in Superior to Kansasville’s Richard Bong State Recreation Area, there are places to cross-country ski in every corner of the state.

Some trails are tracked for traditional skiing, while others are groomed for skate-style skiing. Many are even wide enough to accommodate both styles. There are also numerous miles of ungroomed trails for skiers to explore.

Learn more about cross-country skiing in Wisconsin state parks on our webpage.

Upcoming Events

There are so many events planned throughout the Wisconsin State Park System this year that it's impossible for us to list them all here!

Find events that fit your interests and schedule at a park near you on our DNR Events calendar.

Here is one event we're especially excited about:

Winter Solstice Night Hike
Sunday, Dec. 21, Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit
6:30 – 8 p.m.

Gather around the fire as we share traditions of the longest night of the year. We will then brave the cold of a winter night to travel through the dark woods and find out what animals are awake. This hike is best for families/groups with children over 6 years old. 

A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission pass is required for parking.

Meet at the Zillmer Trail Area (located at W833 County Road SS, Campbellsport between County Road G and Hwy 67 near New Prospect).

For more information, contact: FriendsOfTheKettleMoraine@gmail.com

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