We’re known as the Snowmobile Capital of the World® for a reason. It snows a lot up here on our woodsy and lake-dotted landscapes. And we’re blessed to have some of the most dedicated snowmobiling volunteers on the planet who groom the Eagle River “500” almost nightly.
What better way to thank the fine folks at Sno-Eagles and other area clubs than by riding the snowmobile trails this winter? We have an action-packed 4-day itinerary for those of you who know just how fun snowmobiling is in the Northwoods.
Day 1: Arrival & Getting Oriented
Arrival:
If you don’t have your own snowmobile, pick up your rental at one of the reputable local shops in Eagle River: Track Side, The Toy Shop or Boat Sport Marina. Once you're ready, start out via Trail 13, which leads north from town through forested segments and across the Wisconsin River. This stretch is scenic and gives a great feel for the network.
Lunch:
Plan a mid-ride stop at Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort, reachable via Trail 7/17 after crossing Dam Lake. The resort is a cozy Northwoods spot where you can soak your feet or warm up with a snack.
Afternoon Activity:
After lunch, continue northwest via Trail 15 heading toward St. Germain. This section offers wooded weaving trails and lake views, letting you enjoy both speed and scenery.
Dinner:
Once you ride back into Eagle River via Trail 10 East, unwind with dinner at Eddie B’s White Spruce Restaurant & Tavern, known for its smoked ribs, prime rib, and generous portions.
Nighttime:
Spend your first night in Eagle River — if your lodging is along the trail system (many resorts and cabins are), you can simply park your sled and cozy up by a fire.
Day 2: Full-Day Loop into the Northwoods
Breakfast:
Start with a simple, warming breakfast downtown at Leif’s Café. It’s convenient for getting fueled up before hitting the trails.
Morning Activity:
Set off on a full-day snowmobile ride: head north on Trail 13, then branch onto Trail 6 west, approaching Land O’ Lakes. These trails are known for being groomed and very well marked by the Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club.
Lunch:
There are several local joints along the way, depending on which loop you take. You might find a cozy café or a small lodge serving up sandwiches, soups, or burgers (check local trail maps for real-time stops).
Afternoon Activity:
Continue the loop by riding Trail 15 south after lunch, heading toward Sayner, then pick up Trail 10 East to head back toward Eagle River. This section gives a good mix of open lake runs and forested segments.
Dinner:
When you return to town, head to Buckshots Saloon & Eatery on Hwy 45 North. It’s right off the trail, family-friendly, and offers burgers, smoked meats, pizza, or a Friday fish fry.
Nighttime:
After dinner, celebrate the day with a local craft brew at Tribute Brewing Company or a cocktail at The Craftsman American Tavern.
Day 3: Lakes & Scenic Runs
Breakfast:
Grab coffee and a pastry from Eagle River Roasters Coffee House to fuel up before another day on the snow-covered trails.
Morning Activity:
Today, focus on scenic rides over frozen lakes and across ridgelines. Use the Eagle River 500 Trail system, weaving through open water stretches (when safely frozen), quiet woods, and classic snow-mobile terrain.
Lunch:
Check out Smuggler’s Lounge downtown and ask for the horseradish if you need some heat after being out in the cold. Smuggler’s is right in town and accessible via sled trails.
Afternoon Activity:
In the afternoon, take side trails from the main loop to explore hidden corners of the Vilas County trail system maintained by Sno-Eagles. You might even ride out to nearby Conover or Phelps depending on conditions and your comfort level.
Dinner:
Enjoy a hearty meal after a full day. If you’re looking for a slightly more refined dinner, choose Chef Rene’s at the Inn(on Hwy 70), which is accessible by trail.
Day 4: Final Rides & Departure
Breakfast:
For your final morning, grab a delicious breakfast at Toad in the Hole in downtown Eagle River.
Morning Activity:
Consider visiting the World Snowmobile Headquarters and museum to soak up some snowmobile history. Otherwise, a relaxing morning at your lodging is well deserved.
Lunch:
Have lunch back in Eagle River at Aiello’s on Wall Street, a laid-back spot with sandwiches, pasta, and specials.
Afternoon Activity:
Spend your remaining hours exploring any trails you missed or revisit your favorite patches for that last adrenaline rush. When you’re all snowmobiled-out, return your rental (if necessary) and get home safely. And make sure to watch for any snowmobile crossings!
Plan Your Snowmobiling Trip
Once it snows up here, it’s like heaven on Earth. This itinerary should give you a few good ideas to plan your snowmobile adventure in our neck of the woods. You’ll probably blaze your own trail once you’ve been up a time or two. Remember to get a snowmobile trail pass through the Wisconsin DNR website before riding the trails. We can’t wait to see you up on our world class snowmobile trails soon!
