Winter Bucket List & Packing Guide

First, you’ll need to plan what you’re going to do on your winter trip to Eagle River, but don’t worry, we’ve got the tools to help you with that too. Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or just staying in, we’ve got you covered, take a look at our winter seasonal webpage to get the down low on what to do up north. Or you could just follow our suggestions below:

While you’re packing your bags, always bring appropriate clothing for the weather and don’t forget to check our snowmobile trail report  as conditions may have changed.

Snowmobile from sunrise to sunset:

When it comes to scenic trails, you’ll find no shortage of them here. In fact, we’ve got enough trails to explore sunrise to sunset, and you’ll probably still have some left to explore the next day. Come see for yourself why we’re called the Snowmobile Capital of the World®.

Clothing & Equipment: Bring your warmest jacket, snow pants, boots, gloves and protective face wear to avoid wind burn and frostbite. If you have your own snowmobile, remember to fuel up at Kwik Trip or Trig’s Shell Station before setting out for a day of fun. If you need to borrow a ride or pick up more clothing, drop by one of our snowmobile outfitters.

Extras: If you don’t know your way around, use the trail map to gain your bearings and establish a route. Bring some extra sets of handwarmers in your coat pocket. And if you need some shelter, certain trails, like those in Nicolet forest, have warming stations along them, or you can stop into a bar/grills for a bite.

Ski and Snowshoe on miles of trails

Sure, revving up the snowmobile is thrilling, but there’s something refreshing about the quiet stillness of winters in the Northwoods. Take in all of the fresh snow, crisp air and miles of views while gliding on cross-country skis or trekking with snowshoes.

Clothing & Equipment: Strap up the skis, toss your snowshoes in the back and make your way. Just don’t forget your poles, coats, hats, mittens and neck warmers. Check out our local sports and recreation stores for equipment rentals and added layers.

Extras: Check out our favorite routes around the area and get our area trail maps. Pack some binoculars in your pocket for birding and consider bringing walkie talkies if you’re with a large group.

Feel royal at the Ice Castle:

Keep an eye on EagleRiver.org around the New Year, because weather permitting you can bring your royal family to see our infamous ice castle. Feast your eyes on the immaculate ice creations and stay warm with hot cocoa while posing in front of the fire department and volunteer-built structure.

Clothing & Equipment: If it’s cold enough for an ice castle, it’s cold enough to feel the chill so dress warm.

Extras: If you plan to spend a while at the castle, bring extra blankets, sunglasses (on a sunny day), and your camera.

Take in the World Championship Snowmobile Derby or Pond Hockey Championships

Block off your weekend and start booking early because our Snowmobile Derby and Pond Hockey Championship weekends are packed with fun and spectators enjoying the events.

Clothing & Equipment: Unless you’re participating in the events, you’ll only need clothes to stay warm in the great Northwoods. So toss on your hat, scarf, jacket, books and don’t forget your gloves. But make sure to show your favorite driver or team support by wearing team gear and making signs.

Extras: Buy your derby tickets ahead of time.

Drop a line for ice fishing:

Eagle River is home to some of the best ice fishing the Northwoods has to offer, but what else would you expect from the World’s Largest Chain of 28 Connected Lakes? Check our fishing report for any safety reports and see what’s swimming beneath the surface.

Clothing & Equipment: Dress warm, you’ll be pulling fish out there for a while. Pack your pole, tent, bait, lures, drill, and all of your favorite fishing supplies.

Extras: Stay warm with a warm coffee or hot toddy while on the lake with friends.

Stay in and relax:

With early sunsets, the picturesque snow covered trees, and warm fires glowing bright inside, it’s pretty easy to just stay in all day and catch up with one another or cozy up with a good book. See what else you can do on a couples getaway to Eagle River.

Clothing & Equipment: No need to dress up for us, pack all of your cozy favorites and get ready to settle in for some relaxation.

Extras: Books, board games, cocoa, slippers.

Come while the snow is fresh. Plan your trip today.